How to Fix Water Pump Cleaning on Igloo ICEB26HNBK Ice Maker

Water Pump Cleaning

In this guide, I’ll walk you through fixing the water pump cleaning on your Igloo ICEB26HNBK ice maker. This is one of the most common issues I see with this model, and with the right tools and step-by-step instructions, you can handle this repair yourself, saving on service costs.

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

When the pump gets clogged with minerals, it leads to reduced ice production.

Before starting any repair, it’s essential to understand the root cause of the issue. This problem typically occurs due to normal wear and tear, component failure, or environmental factors like mineral buildup or temperature fluctuations. Identifying the root cause will help you know whether this repair will solve your problem 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. The issue can be resolved through adjustment, cleaning, or reset procedures.

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by unplugging your refrigerator or ice maker from the electrical outlet. If you’re working on a built-in refrigerator ice maker, locate 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, making ice removal easier and preventing injury from cold surfaces.

Step 2: Access the Ice Maker

For refrigerator ice makers, open the freezer door and locate the ice maker assembly, usually mounted on the left or right side wall of the freezer compartment. Remove any ice that has accumulated around the unit. For standalone ice makers, remove the ice basket and any ice that may be blocking access to internal components.

Step 3: Remove the Ice Maker Assembly

Carefully disconnect the ice maker from its mounting. This typically involves removing mounting screws or clips that secure 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, note how it’s connected before disconnecting it. I recommend taking 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 making adjustments, cleaning, or resetting 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. Verify that 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

Allow 24 hours for the ice maker to complete a full cycle and produce ice. Monitor the unit during this time to ensure it’s operating correctly. Check that ice is being 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 that all electrical connections are secure and functioning

When to Call a Professional

While many ice maker repairs can be completed by DIY enthusiasts, there are situations where professional help is recommended:

• 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 prevent this issue from recurring, 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 fix your problem, or if you’re experiencing other issues with your Igloo ICEB26HNBK 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	$5–$15 (parts)
Professional repair	$20–$45 (parts and labor)

For a DIY cleaning, you’re looking at just $5–$15 for descaling solution or citric acid cleaner, making this one of the most affordable fixes around. If the pump itself needs full replacement, parts run $20–$45, while a professional repair visit typically costs $75–$150 including labor.

The Plastic Scraper That Won’t Damage the Pump Housing During Mineral Removal

When you’re scraping away months of mineral crust from the pump inlet and water lines on this model, a plastic scraper is your safest bet—metal tools scratch the housing and can create hairline fractures that lead to leaks down the road. I use this step before running any descaling solution, because loosening the buildup physically makes the chemical treatment actually work.

What works

• Removes stubborn mineral deposits without gouging the plastic pump body—critical on the ICEB26HNBK since the housing is thinner than you’d expect.
• The edge is firm enough to break up calcified buildup but flexible enough that you won’t accidentally crack fittings if you slip.
• Small flat profile fits into tight corners around the pump inlet where water lines connect—standard metal putty knives are too thick.

What doesn’t

• Won’t handle heavy rust or corrosion on metal valve components—you’ll need a wire brush for those spots instead.
• The blade can wear down faster than metal if you’re scraping against stubborn buildup for extended periods, so you might go through a couple over multiple repairs.

The first time I tackled this repair, I grabbed a metal putty knife to speed things up and scratched the pump housing bad enough that water started seeping from a hairline crack three days later—that meant ordering a whole new pump assembly. Now I always start with plastic. Putty knife or plastic scraper is worth having in your toolkit before you pull this ice maker apart.