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!

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