How to replace Whirlpool / KitchenAid ice machine control board W11034363 (2024)

The control board in a freestanding or under-the-counter ice machine is like the brain of the unit. It regulates the icemaking process so you always have a supply ready when you need it.

If the control board malfunctions over time or gets damaged in some way, like from a power surge or interruption, don’t be quick to throw out your ice machine. You can simply swap out the bad board for a new one without calling an expensive service technician.

You might need to replace the control board if the ice machine isn’t functioning or producing ice, there are intermittent issues or the machine doesn’t respond to commands.

Let’s break down the repair process so you can get your ice machine back in working order!

You can find a replacement control board here. If you need other replacement parts for your Whirlpool / KitchenAid ice machine, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Disclaimer: The part replacement information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Read more: 5 Common Mistakes That Shorten The Lifespan Of Appliances

What you need

• Replacement control board (make sure it’s compatible with your specific ice machine model before installing)
• Phillips screwdriver
• 1/4-inch socket
• Putty knife

Disclaimer: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

Read more: Why is my Whirlpool ice machine not making enough ice?

How to replace the control board

Change out your ice machine control board with the following steps.

1. Unplug the ice machine from the power outlet.
2. Shut off the water supply to the ice machine.
3. Use a 1/4-inch socket to unthread the screws holding the access cover to the control panel.
4. Use a putty knife to carefully pry the cover free from the control panel. Take extra care to avoid damaging the cover or the panel.
5. Note the positions of the ice bin thermistor wire connector and the cutting grid wire connector. Take a photo to help with reassembly later on.
6. Carefully disconnect the ice bin thermistor wire connector and the cutting grid wire connector by gently pulling them apart.
7. Remove the cutting grid.
8. Remove all of the screws that secure the control housing to the top panel.
9. Remove the screw that secures the grounding wire to the top panel.
10. Remove the Phillips head mounting screw that secures the control board in place.
11. Depress the tab (if present) that holds the control board in place and carefully lift the board to release it from its housing.
12. Note the location of the wire connectors on the old control board. Disconnect the wire connectors from the appropriate terminals by gently pulling them away from the old board.
13. Install the new control board by connecting the wire connectors to the appropriate terminals on the board.
14. Snap the new control board into place within the control housing.
15. Thread the mounting screws back into their original positions to hold the new control board in place.
16. Secure the control housing grounding wire to the top panel with the screw that was previously removed.
17. Realign the control housing on the top panel and thread all of the screws back into their original positions to secure the housing.
18. Reinstall the cutting grid and reconnect the cutting grid wire connector and the thermistor wire connector to their respective positions.
19. Rethread the front and rear screws to secure the top panel.
20. Take the access cover that was removed earlier and align its bottom edge with the ice machine so the ice scoop housing rests on top of the cover.
21. Secure the access cover to the control panel with the screws that were removed earlier.
22. Carefully move the ice machine back into its original position.
23. Turn on the water supply to the ice machine.
24. Plug the ice machine back into the power outlet.
25. Turn on the ice machine and monitor it as it runs to make sure it works correctly.

Read more:

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the control board in your Whirlpool / KitchenAid ice machine.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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