4396418 - Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Maker

This Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Maker (4396418) is a genuine part compatible with multiple fridge models from Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Inglis, Maytag, and Amana. Designed to efficiently produce ice cubes, this assembly includes not only the ice maker but also a shut-off arm, water valve, and fill tube, ensuring you have all necessary components for installation. The ice maker operates through a blend of mechanical, electrical, and thermal processes, featuring key components like an ice mold, a heating element, and a motor-driven ejection arm. Starting with a signal to fill the ice mold with water, its operation pivots on the freezer's cooling to freeze water into cubes. A brief activation of the heating element then loosens these cubes, with the ejection arm pushing them into a bin or tray. An auger motor further dispenses the ice, whether cubed or crushed, through the fridge's dispenser. Integral to its operation are various sensors and controls, including temperature sensors and full-bin switches, which ensure optimal functioning. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and checking for blockages, is crucial. Symptoms that this part may need replacement include incomplete ice production, irregularly shaped cubes, or a lack of ice despite the mechanism's activation. Before purchasing, confirm your fridge's model number aligns with this ice maker's compatibility to ensure a smooth replacement process.