GE IM-5A Icemaker Accessory Kit

Safety Information

Refrigerator Safety Information

⚠️ This is the safety alert symbol. This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others. All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and the word “DANGER”, “WARNING”, or “CAUTION”. These words are defined as:

• ? DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
• ⚠️ WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
• ? CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

Safety Precautions

? CAUTION Do not place fingers or hands in the automatic icemaking mechanism while the refrigerator is plugged in. This will help protect you from possible injury.

It will also prevent interference with moving parts of the ejector mechanism and the heating element that releases the cubes, located on the bottom of the icemaker.

READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION CAREFULLY. READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

About the Automatic Icemaker

A newly-installed refrigerator may take 12 to 24 hours to begin making ice.

Automatic Icemaker Operation

The icemaker produces approximately seven cubes per cycle, yielding 100–130 cubes in a 24-hour period, depending on freezer compartment temperature, room temperature, door openings, and other use conditions.

• If operating the refrigerator before water connection, set the power switch to 0 (OFF).
• Once connected to the water supply, set the power switch to I (ON). The icemaker power light will turn green.
• The icemaker fills with water when the freezer temperature reaches 15°F (-10°C). Initial ice production may take 12 to 24 hours.
• A buzzing sound indicates the icemaker is filling with water.

Discard the first few batches of ice to clear the water line. Ensure the feeler arm moves freely. The icemaker stops producing ice when the bin fills to the feeler arm's level. Cubes may sometimes join together. Old ice can become cloudy and stale.

NOTE: In areas with low water pressure, the icemaker may cycle multiple times per batch. Set the power switch to 0 (OFF) if the water supply is shut off.

Preparing for Vacation

Set the icemaker power switch to 0 (OFF) and shut off the refrigerator's water supply. If temperatures may drop below freezing, have a qualified servicer drain the water supply system to prevent flooding damage.

When to Set the Icemaker Power Switch to OFF

• When the ice storage bin is removed for more than a minute or two.
• When the water supply will be shut off for several hours.
• When the refrigerator will not be used for several days.

Normal Sounds You May Hear

• The icemaker water valve buzzes when filling. This may occur even if not yet connected to water if the switch is ON, potentially causing damage. Move the switch to OFF to prevent this.
• The sound of ice cubes dropping into the bin.
• The sound of water running in pipes as the icemaker refills.

Before You Call for Service

Save time and money! Review this chart first.

Installation Instructions

Questions? Call 1.800.561.3344 or Visit GEAppliances.ca

Before You Begin

Read these instructions completely and carefully.

• IMPORTANT: Save these instructions for local inspector's use.
• IMPORTANT: Observe all governing codes and ordinances.
• Note to Installer: Be sure to leave these instructions with the Consumer.
• Note to Consumer: Keep these instructions for future reference.
• Skill Level: Installation requires basic mechanical and electrical skills.
• Completion Time: 20–60 minutes.
• Proper installation is the responsibility of the installer.
• Product failure due to improper installation is not covered under warranty.

Are You Replacing an Icemaker with This Kit?

It is important to use the supplied water valve and fill tube assembly, even if your refrigerator already has them. The old valve may not allow sufficient water flow, potentially causing damage.

Damage – Shipment/Installation

• If damaged in shipment, return to the store for repair or replacement.
• If damaged by the customer, the customer is responsible for repair or replacement.
• If damaged by the installer (other than the customer), repair or replacement is arranged between the installer and customer.

Contents of Kit IM-5A

• 1) Icemaker: (Appearance may vary)
• 2) Installation Instructions
• 3) Water Valve: (Appearance may vary)
• 4) Adhesive-Backed Water Tube Fasteners: To secure plastic water tube.
• 5) Warranty Label
• 6) Ice Bucket
• 7) Hex-Head Screw: For attaching water valve (3/8″)*
• 8) Hex-Head Screw: For mounting icemaker (1-1/8″)*
• 9) Fill Tube Assembly
• 10) Icemaker Fill Cup
• 11) Hex-Head Screw: For attaching fill tube Assembly (5/8″)*

*NOTE: Screw lengths are the lengths of the threaded portion of the screw, not including the head.

Icemaker Installation Instructions

1. Set Power Switch to OFF

   Set the icemaker power switch to 0 (OFF). Leave it in this position until the refrigerator is connected to the water supply to prevent premature operation.

2. Install the Icemaker Fill Cup

   Install the icemaker fill cup (10) into the icemaker (1) as shown. If the fill cup is installed, proceed to the next step.

3. Prepare for Installation

   Remove the top full-width basket from the freezer drawer by pulling it out to the stop and lifting it off the slides. When replacing, ensure it is mounted on the side rails and over the bottom basket slides.

4. Mount the Icemaker

   Slide the icemaker onto the icemaker support and drive screw (8). Ensure icemaker slots fit support guides, the fill tube extends into the fill cup, and the icemaker power switch is set to 0 (OFF).

5. Plug in the Icemaker

   Insert the icemaker power cord plug into the side wall socket, matching prongs and holes. Press firmly and lock the plug with restraints. Route the cord behind the icemaker.

6. Install the Ice Bucket

   Place the ice bucket (6) under the icemaker.

7. Attach Warranty Label

   Use the provided label (5) to record the installation date for warranty purposes. Apply it to the back of the refrigerator.

8. Keep This Manual

   The icemaker warranty is printed in this manual. Keep it with your Refrigerator Owner's Manual. Icemaker installation inside the freezer is now complete. Proceed to the Water Valve Assembly section.

Water Valve Assembly Installation Instructions

1. Remove the Cover

   Use a 5/16" nutdriver or adjustable wrench to remove the compressor compartment access cover (six screws). Save screws for reinstallation. This cover is essential for proper refrigerator function.

2. Plastic Water Tubing

   Use the water line from the fill tube assembly. Route it through the clip on the valve and push into the quick-connect. The white line should be barely visible if properly engaged.

3. Attach the Water Valve to the Machine Compartment

   Locate female connector plug (A) and connect it to the male terminals on the water valve (3). Either wire can be used. Fasten the water valve to the cabinet using hex-head screw (7).

4. Route and Attach the Plastic Water Line

   Fasten the plastic water line to the back of the cabinet using adhesive-backed fastener (4).

5. Water Valve Installed

   Refer to Water Line Installation Instructions for home water supply connection. After connection, set the icemaker power switch to I (ON). Icemaking begins automatically once the icemaker and freezer reach operating temperature.

Installing the Water Line

Before You Begin

Recommended water supply kits: Copper (WX8X2, WX8X3, WX8X4) or GE SmartConnect™ plastic tubing (WX08X10002, WX08X10006, WX08X10015, WX08X10025). For GE Reverse Osmosis Systems, use the GE RVKit. If using a reverse osmosis system with a refrigerator water filter, use the filter bypass plug. Using both can cause hollow ice cubes and slow dispenser flow. This installation is not warranted by GE. Follow instructions carefully to minimize water damage risk. Address water hammer issues before installation. Never connect to hot water lines. Ensure icemaker power switch is OFF if refrigerator is used before water line connection. Do not install tubing in freezing temperatures. Use caution with electrical tools. All installations must comply with local plumbing codes. ⚠️ Connect to potable water supply only.

What You Will Need

• Copper or GE SmartConnect™ Refrigerator Tubing kit (1/4" outer diameter). Ensure tubing ends are cut square if copper.
• Measure distance from water valve to supply pipe, add 8 feet (2.4 m) for slack. Ensure sufficient extra tubing (approx. 8 ft coiled into 3 turns of 10" diameter) for refrigerator movement.
• GE SmartConnect™ Tubing Kits available in lengths: 2' (WX08X10002), 8' (WX08X10006), 15' (WX08X10015), 25' (WX08X10025). Select a kit with at least 8 ft (2.4 m) slack.
• NOTE: Only GE approved plastic tubing is safe; others may crack under pressure.
• Optional GE water supply kit available from dealer or Parts and Accessories (1-888-261-3055).
• Cold water supply with pressure between 20-120 p.s.i. (1.4–8.2 bar) (without filter) or 40-120 p.s.i. (2.8-8.2 bar) (with filter).
• Power drill.
• 1/2" or adjustable wrench.
• Straight and Phillips blade screwdriver.

Tools You Will Need (Continued)

• Two 1/4" compression nuts and 2 ferrules (sleeves) for copper tubing.
• If using GE SmartConnect™ tubing, fittings are pre-assembled.
• If existing copper line has a flared fitting, use an adapter or cut off the flare and use a compression fitting. Do not cut formed ends of GE SmartConnect™ tubing.
• Shutoff valve for cold water line (minimum 5/32" inside diameter at connection point). Saddle-type valves are common. Ensure compliance with local codes. Install on nearest frequently used drinking water line.

1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply

   Turn on the nearest faucet to clear the line.

2. Choose the Valve Location

   Select an accessible location. Connecting to the side of a vertical pipe is best. For horizontal pipes, connect to the top or side to avoid sediment.

3. Drill the Hole for the Valve

   Drill a 1/4" hole in the water pipe. Remove burrs. Be careful not to let water enter the drill. Failure to drill a 1/4" hole may result in reduced ice production or smaller cubes.

4. Fasten the Shutoff Valve

   Fasten the shutoff valve to the cold water pipe with the pipe clamp.

5. Tighten the Pipe Clamp

   Tighten clamp screws until the sealing washer swells. Do not overtighten, as it may crush the tubing.

6. Route the Tubing

   Route tubing between the cold water line and refrigerator. Pass through a wall or floor hole near the wall. Ensure sufficient extra tubing (approx. 8 ft coiled into 3 turns of 10" diameter) for refrigerator movement.

7. Connect the Tubing to the Valve

   For copper tubing: Place compression nut and ferrule on tubing end, insert into shutoff valve, and tighten securely. For GE SmartConnect™ plastic tubing: Insert molded end into shutoff valve, hand-tighten compression nut, then tighten one additional turn with a wrench. Overtightening may cause leaks.

8. Flush Out the Tubing

   Turn on main water supply and flush tubing until water is clear. Shut off water at the valve after about 1 quart (1 liter) has flushed.

9. Connect the Tubing to Your Refrigerator

   NOTES: Ensure refrigerator power cord is unplugged. If refrigerator lacks a water filter, consider installing one if water supply has particles that could clog the valve screen. Use an additional tube (WX08X10002) if using GE SmartConnect™ tubing. Do not cut plastic tube to install filter.

   Remove the plastic flexible cap from the refrigerator's water valve connection.

   Place compression nut and ferrule (sleeve) onto tubing end. For GE SmartConnect™ tubing, nuts are pre-assembled. Insert tubing end into refrigerator connection as far as possible. Hold tubing and tighten fitting. For plastic tubing, hand-tighten compression nut, then tighten one more turn with a wrench. Overtightening may cause leaks. Fasten tubing into clamp for vertical position.

10. Turn the Water On at the Shutoff Valve

    Tighten any connections that leak.

11. Reinstall the Cover

    Reinstall the compressor compartment access cover using the previously removed screws. This is essential for proper refrigerator function.

12. Installing the Refrigerator

    Plug in the refrigerator. Arrange tubing coil to avoid vibration against the back or wall. Push refrigerator back into place.

13. Start the Icemaker

    Set the icemaker power switch to the ON position. Icemaking begins when the freezer reaches its operating temperature of 15°F (-9°C) or below.

Icemaker Warranty

All warranty service is provided by GE Factory Service Centers or authorized technicians. To schedule service, visit GEAppliances.com or call 800.GE.CARES (US) / 1.800.561.3344 (Canada). Have serial and model numbers ready.

For The Period Of: One Year from the date of original purchase.

We Will Replace: Any part of the icemaker failing due to defects in material or workmanship. GE will provide free replacement parts during this limited one-year warranty.

Proof of purchase is required for warranty service.

What Is Not Covered (for customers in the United States):

• Service trips to teach product use.
• Improper installation (customer responsible for electrical, plumbing, water line connections).
• Product failure due to abuse, misuse, non-intended purpose, or commercial use.
• Replacement of house fuses or resetting circuit breakers.
• Damage caused by accident, fire, floods, or acts of God.
• Incidental or consequential damages.
• Product inaccessible for service.

EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES: Your sole remedy is product repair. Implied warranties (merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose) are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law.

This warranty extends to the original purchaser and subsequent owners for home use in the USA. If service is unavailable in your area, you may be responsible for trip charges or bringing the product to a service location. In Alaska, shipping and service calls are excluded. Some states limit incidental/consequential damages. This warranty gives specific legal rights that vary by state.

Warrantor: General Electric Company, Louisville, KY 40225

What Is Not Covered (for customers in Canada):

• Service trips to teach product use.
• Improper installation (contact dealer/installer; customer responsible for electrical, plumbing, etc.).
• Replacement of house fuses or resetting circuit breakers.
• Product failure due to misuse, non-intended purpose, or commercial use.
• Damage caused by accident, fire, floods, or acts of God.

WARRANTOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

Warrantor: MABE CANADA INC.

Consumer Support

GE Appliances Website: electromenagersge.ca. Available 24/7 for questions and assistance.

Repair Service: Call 1.800.561.3344 for GE appliance repair.

Design Studio Brochure: For kitchen design for reduced mobility, write to: Director, Consumer Relations, Mabe Canada Inc., Bureau 310, 1 Factory Lane, Moncton, N.B. E1C 9M3.

Extended Warranty: Purchase an extended service contract from GE before your warranty expires for continued service. Visit electromenagersge.ca or call 1.800.461.3636.

Parts and Accessories: Order parts and accessories directly for home delivery (VISA, MasterCard, Discover accepted). For repairs beyond basic instructions, contact a qualified technician. Inadequate repairs can affect safety. Find local Mabe service centers in the yellow pages or call 1.888.261.3055.

Contact Us: If unsatisfied with service, first contact the service provider. If still unsatisfied, send full details (including phone number) to: Director, Consumer Relations, Mabe Canada Inc., Bureau 310, 1 Factory Lane, Moncton, N.B. E1C 9M3.

Register Your Appliance: Register online to improve communications and service. A mail-in form may be included with your documentation.