So your GE refrigerator has stopped making ice, and you’re wondering what went wrong. You’re not alone — this is one of the most common complaints from fridge owners, especially with GE side-by-side and French door models. Whether you have a GE Profile, GE Cafe, or standard GE model, the issue often boils down to a handful of possible causes.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most likely reasons your GE ice maker isn’t working and what you can do to fix it — no tech degree needed.
What Does the SC (5C) Error Code Mean?
Common Reasons a GE Fridge Is Not Making Ice
1. Ice Maker Turned Off
Yes, it sounds obvious — but it happens more than you’d think.
- Look for a switch or arm inside the ice maker compartment.
- Make sure it’s set to ON.
2. Water Supply Issues
The ice maker needs a steady water supply.
- Check the water line behind the fridge. Make sure it’s not kinked or blocked.
- Is your home water supply working?
- If you have a water filter, try replacing it — clogged filters are a major reason for ice maker failure.
3. Freezer Temperature Too High
Ice makers only work if the freezer is cold enough.
- Freezer should be at or below 0°F (-18°C).
- If it’s set higher, lower the temp and wait a few hours.
4. Ice Jam in the Tray or Dispenser
Sometimes, ice gets stuck and prevents new ice from being made.
- Check for frozen clumps in the ice bin or tray.
- Remove and defrost if necessary.
5. Faulty Ice Maker Module or Motor
If everything else looks fine, the issue could be mechanical.
- GE ice makers have a control module that triggers the harvest cycle.
- A faulty motor or control board could be the issue.
Common Causes of SC Error Code
How to Troubleshoot a GE Refrigerator Not Making Ice
Here’s a step-by-step DIY checklist to get your ice maker working again:
Step 1: Confirm Ice Maker Is On
Open the freezer door.
Flip the switch or lower the arm if it’s raised.
Step 2: Check the Water Supply
Pull the fridge forward and inspect the water line.
If you recently installed a new fridge or moved it, make sure the line isn’t pinched.
Step 3: Replace the Water Filter
GE recommends replacing filters every 6 months.
Use only genuine GE filters to avoid compatibility issues.
Step 4: Reset the Ice Maker
Many GE models have a reset button:
Hold it for 5–10 seconds until you hear a chime.
Wait 24 hours to see if ice production resumes.
Step 5: Defrost the Ice Maker Tray
If you see frozen cubes stuck in the tray, unplug the fridge for 30–60 minutes or use a hairdryer on a low setting to defrost.
Step 6: Check the Freezer Temperature
Use a thermometer to double-check the actual temp.
If it’s above 10°F, your ice maker likely won’t work.
Quick Troubleshooting Steps
When to Call a Technician
If you’ve tried all of the above and your GE ice maker still isn’t making ice:
- You may have a faulty water inlet valve.
- The ice maker module could be broken.
- The main control board might not be sending signals properly.
In these cases, it’s best to contact a our qualified GE appliance technician.
Was It the Suspension Rods?
Final Thoughts
A non-working ice maker is annoying, but it’s often fixable without a repair bill. Run through the checklist above, and you may have ice again in just a few hours. Keep your fridge maintained, replace your water filter regularly, and check those temperatures!
Got questions or tips that worked for you? Drop a comment and help the next person out!