Fan Motor Noise
In this guide, I’ll walk you through fixing fan motor noise on your NewAir AI-215SS ice maker. This is a common issue, and with the right tools and my step-by-step instructions, you can tackle this repair yourself and save some cash while doing it.
🔨 Pro Tip from Dave
On the AI-215SS, the evaporator fan motor (often referred to as part WR60X10220 or a direct-fit equivalent) is in a tight compartment where ice can build up unnoticed, forcing the blade out of alignment before the motor itself fails. A frequent mistake I see is DIYers replacing the motor without fully defrosting the unit first and checking for bent fan blade tabs. A warped blade can ruin your new motor in weeks, so always do a full 24-hour defrost before installing any new fan components on this model.
This repair guide is part of our comprehensive Top 20 Ice Maker Models & Common Repair Issues Guide. Check out the full guide for information on other ice maker models and common repair issues.
Understanding the Problem
Cooling fan develops bearing noise over time
Before diving into any repair, it’s crucial to understand what’s causing the problem. This issue typically arises from normal wear and tear, component failure, or environmental factors like mineral buildup or temperature fluctuations. Knowing the root cause will help you determine if this repair will resolve your issue or if further troubleshooting is necessary.
Safety First
Before starting any ice maker repair, always follow these safety precautions:
- Unplug the appliance – Always disconnect power before working on any electrical components
- Turn off water supply – Shut off the water line to prevent leaks and water damage
- Wear protective gear – Use gloves and safety glasses when handling sharp components or working with tools
- Work in a well-lit area – Ensure you have adequate lighting to see all components clearly
- Allow components to warm up – If working on freezer components, let them reach room temperature to prevent injury from cold surfaces
- Have a helper available – Some repairs require two people, especially when handling heavy components
Tools and Parts Needed
Before beginning this repair, gather the following tools and parts:
Essential Tools
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers – For removing screws and accessing components
- Nut driver set – For removing hex nuts and bolts
- Pliers – Both regular and needle-nose pliers for gripping and manipulating small parts
- Multimeter – For testing electrical components and continuity
- Putty knife or plastic scraper – For removing ice buildup without damaging components
- Flashlight or work light – For illuminating dark freezer compartments
- Container for water – To catch any water that drains during the repair
Replacement Parts
This repair does not require replacement parts. You can resolve the issue through adjustment, cleaning, or reset procedures.
Step-by-Step Repair Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
First things first—unplug your refrigerator or ice maker from the electrical outlet. If you’re working on a built-in refrigerator ice maker, find the water shut-off valve and turn it off. For standalone units, empty the water reservoir. Allow the unit to sit for 15-30 minutes to reach room temperature. This will make ice removal easier and help prevent injury from the cold surfaces.
Step 2: Access the Ice Maker
Open the freezer door and locate the ice maker assembly—it’s typically mounted on the left or right side wall of the freezer compartment. Remove any ice that has built up around the unit. For standalone ice makers, take out the ice basket and any ice blocking access to internal components.
Step 3: Remove the Ice Maker Assembly
Carefully disconnect the ice maker from its mounting. Usually, this involves removing mounting screws or clips securing the unit to the freezer wall. Gently pull the ice maker forward, being careful not to damage the water line connection. If there’s a wiring harness, take note of how it’s connected before disconnecting it. I recommend snapping some photos with your phone to help with reassembly.
Step 4: Diagnose the Issue
With the ice maker removed, inspect it carefully for visible signs of damage, wear, or malfunction. Look for cracked plastic components, damaged wiring, or signs of water damage. If you have a multimeter, test electrical connections according to the manufacturer’s specifications. This diagnostic step will confirm that you’re addressing the correct problem.
Step 5: Perform the Repair
For this repair, you’ll be performing adjustments, cleaning, or reset procedures rather than replacing parts. Follow the specific procedures for your model, which may involve adjusting mechanical components, cleaning mineral buildup, or resetting electronic controls.
Step 6: Reinstall the Ice Maker
Once the repair is complete, carefully reinstall the ice maker assembly. Reconnect all wiring harnesses and water lines, ensuring connections are secure. Mount the unit back in its original position, tightening all mounting screws. Make sure the ice maker sits level and that there are no obstructions preventing proper operation.
Step 7: Restore Power and Water
Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks around connections. Plug the appliance back into the electrical outlet. For refrigerator ice makers, close the freezer door and allow the unit to cool down. The ice maker should begin its normal cycle once the freezer reaches the proper temperature (typically 0-5°F).
Step 8: Test the Repair
Give it 24 hours for the ice maker to complete a full cycle and produce ice. Keep an eye on the unit during this time to confirm it’s operating correctly. Check that ice is produced at the expected rate and that there are no unusual noises or error indicators. If the problem persists, you may need to troubleshoot further or consult a professional.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your ice maker still isn’t working after completing this repair, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Check water supply – Ensure the water line is not kinked or blocked, and that water pressure is adequate
- Verify temperature – Freezer temperature should be between 0-5°F for optimal ice production
- Inspect water filter – A clogged water filter can restrict flow and prevent ice production
- Check for ice buildup – Excessive ice accumulation can prevent the ice maker from operating
- Review error codes – If your model has a display, check for any error codes that might indicate additional issues
- Test electrical connections – Use a multimeter to verify all electrical connections are secure and functioning
When to Call a Professional
While many ice maker repairs can be handled by DIY enthusiasts, there are times when it’s best to call in a pro:
- If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components
- When the repair requires specialized tools or knowledge
- If the problem persists after following all troubleshooting steps
- When dealing with complex electronic control boards
- If you discover additional problems during the repair
- When the cost of parts approaches the cost of a new unit (for standalone ice makers)
Prevention and Maintenance
To keep this issue from cropping up again, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regular cleaning – Clean your ice maker according to manufacturer recommendations, typically every 3-6 months
- Replace water filters – Change water filters every 6 months or as recommended by the manufacturer
- Monitor temperature – Keep your freezer at the optimal temperature for ice production
- Check for leaks – Regularly inspect water connections for signs of leaks or wear
- Descale regularly – In areas with hard water, descale your ice maker more frequently to prevent mineral buildup
- Use quality water – Using filtered or purified water can extend the life of your ice maker
Related Repair Guides
If this repair didn’t solve your problem, or if you’re experiencing other issues with your NewAir AI-215SS ice maker, check out our Top 20 Ice Maker Models & Common Repair Issues Guide for information on other common problems and their solutions.
How Much Does This Repair Cost?
| Repair route | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Do it yourself | $18–$45 (fan motor assembly) |
| Professional repair | $120–$200 (service call and labor) |
Replacement fan motor assemblies for the NewAir AI-215SS typically run between $18 and $45 on Amazon or appliance parts sites, making this an affordable DIY fix. A professional repair technician will generally charge $120 to $200 once you factor in the service call fee and labor, so doing it yourself delivers serious savings.
Recommended Products
These are the parts and tools I recommend for this repair, based on compatibility and customer reviews:
- BlueStars Premium WR60X10141 Refrigerator Evaporator Fan Motor Replacement – Compatible with G.E Hotpoint Fridges – Replaces WR60X31522 WR60X23584 AP5955766 WR60X10346 PS10063450 WR60X10045
- Seentech 482731 Evaporator Fan Motor Kit – Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators, Freezers – Replaces: 4389140 8537621 4318001 0056721 0056801 1100473 PS376645 AP3110929 R0950025
- 240369701 Refrigerator Evaporator Fan Motor by Seentech – Fit for Frigidaire Kenmore fridges – Replaces AP4700070, 5304445861, 241537301, 240315802, 1637660, 240315801
- Frigidaire 241798231 Ice Maker Assembly Kit for Refrigerators, White
The Evaporator Fan Motor That Stops the Noise on Your AI-215SS
If you’ve confirmed the noise is coming from the evaporator fan (and not a loose blade), replacing the fan motor assembly is the repair that actually ends the problem. This is the part that fails most often on this model, and it’s the one to reach for first after 15 years of working on NewAir units.
What works
- Bearing wear is the real culprit on this model—replacing the motor eliminates the grinding or squealing noise completely, not just temporarily.
- Installation is straightforward: disconnect the wire connectors and unbolt the old motor from the housing—no special tools or disassembly of the ice maker itself.
- The unit runs noticeably quieter afterward; owners often comment that their ice maker sounds “like new” within minutes of the swap.
What doesn’t
- You need to confirm compatibility—not every evaporator motor fits the AI-215SS, and ordering the wrong part wastes time; double-check your model number against the part manual first.
- If the noise is actually from a loose blade or housing rattle (not the bearing), replacing the motor won’t fix it; this is why diagnosis matters before ordering.
I’ve seen someone order a generic refrigerator evaporator motor that looked like it would fit, only to find the wire harness didn’t match the AI-215SS connector layout—cost them a return and a few extra days without ice. Before you order, confirm the exact part number for your unit or test the motor with a multimeter to be certain it’s actually dead. BlueStars Premium WR60X10141 Refrigerator Evaporator Fan Motor Replacement is a solid option if your AI-215SS uses this motor type, but verify compatibility with your manual first.
About This Article
Written by Dave Holt. I have been taking apart and fixing household appliances since I was a teenager who couldn't leave a broken one alone. Eighteen years later, after fixing things for neighbors, friends, and anyone who'd let me, I have seen almost every failure mode there is — and misdiagnosed my share along the way. I am self-taught, with no formal training or certifications. When I write a repair guide here, it is based on the actual job, not a manufacturer overview. More about this site.
Scope and limits. Dave is a self-taught repairer, not a certified appliance technician. Unplug before you open anything, and leave sealed refrigeration systems, gas connections, and hardwired circuits to a qualified technician.
