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Error code reference

KitchenAid Ice Maker Error Code LED flashing 1 second intervals

Bin thermistor failure mode

KitchenAid codesKitchenAid ice maker codes

Bin thermistor failure mode - bin thermistor is disconnected or open and not detected by control board.

First step from the service manual

Check for a disconnected or open bin thermistor. Reconnect or replace as needed.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What LED flashing 1 second intervals means on a KitchenAid ice maker

The LED flashing at 1-second intervals on a KitchenAid ice maker signals a bin thermistor failure mode. Specifically, the control board cannot detect a valid signal from the bin thermistor, which means the thermistor is either physically disconnected from its connector or has developed an open circuit condition. The bin thermistor is a temperature-sensing component mounted near the ice storage bin, and it provides the control board with real-time temperature data used to determine when the bin is full or when ice production should pause.

When the control board receives no signal from the bin thermistor, it cannot accurately monitor bin temperature. An open circuit in the thermistor means its internal resistance has become infinite, breaking the signal path entirely. This is different from a shorted thermistor, which would send an out-of-range low resistance reading. In disconnected or open failure mode, the board detects the absence of any readable resistance value and triggers the 1-second interval LED flash to alert the technician.

Diagnosing this fault begins with a physical inspection of the bin thermistor wiring harness and connector. A loose or corroded connector is the most straightforward fix, requiring only reconnection or cleaning of the terminals. If the connector is secure, the thermistor itself should be tested with a multimeter for continuity and proper resistance values across its leads. A thermistor showing infinite resistance (OL on a multimeter) confirms an open internal failure, and the component will need to be replaced to restore normal ice maker operation.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of LED flashing 1 second intervals

  1. 01

    Disconnected wiring harness connector

    Wiring / connection

    The bin thermistor connector may have vibrated loose from its socket on the control board or at the thermistor itself. Inspect both ends of the harness for a loose or fully unplugged connector and press it firmly back into place.

  2. 02

    Open circuit in the bin thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor's internal sensing element may have failed, creating an open circuit with infinite resistance. Test the thermistor leads with a multimeter set to resistance; an OL (overload) reading confirms the thermistor has failed and must be replaced.

  3. 03

    Damaged or broken wiring in the harness

    Part replacement

    The wire leads between the thermistor and the control board may have a break or nick caused by pinching, abrasion, or repeated flexing. Visually trace the harness and check for continuity along the wire lengths to locate a break.

  4. 04

    Corroded or contaminated connector terminals

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture inside the ice maker compartment can corrode the thermistor connector pins, increasing resistance to the point where the board reads no signal. Inspect the terminals for green or white oxidation and clean them carefully with electrical contact cleaner.

  5. 05

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and all wiring test correctly but the error persists, the control board's thermistor input circuit may have failed. This is the least likely cause and should only be considered after all other components have been confirmed functional.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about LED flashing 1 second intervals

What does LED flashing 1 second intervals mean on a KitchenAid ice_maker?
This LED flash pattern indicates a bin thermistor failure mode, meaning the control board cannot detect a signal from the bin thermistor. The thermistor is either physically disconnected from its wiring harness or has developed an open circuit internally. The ice maker will not operate normally until the thermistor connection is restored or the component is replaced.
Can I fix the LED flashing 1 second intervals error myself?
If the cause is a loose or unplugged connector, you can resolve this yourself by locating the bin thermistor wiring harness and pressing the connector firmly back into its socket. If the thermistor itself has failed, replacing it is a moderately straightforward repair that involves disconnecting the harness and installing a new thermistor. However, if you are not comfortable using a multimeter to test resistance or tracing wiring, a professional technician is recommended.
Is it safe to continue using my KitchenAid ice maker when this error is active?
With the bin thermistor disconnected or failed, the control board cannot monitor bin temperature accurately, which may cause the ice maker to stop producing ice or behave unpredictably. Continuing to run the unit in this state is not recommended, as the safety and production controls that rely on bin temperature data will not function correctly. Address the fault before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair the bin thermistor on a KitchenAid ice maker?
If only a reconnection is needed, there is no parts cost involved. If the bin thermistor must be replaced, the part itself typically costs in the range of $15 to $60 depending on the specific model. Adding professional labor, the total repair cost generally falls between $75 and $200, though this varies by region and service provider.
Will resetting my KitchenAid ice maker clear this error code?
A reset will not permanently clear this error if the underlying problem with the bin thermistor has not been fixed. The control board will detect the disconnected or open thermistor again on startup and re-trigger the 1-second LED flash pattern. The fault must be corrected at the component level before the error will stop appearing.

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