Kenmore Refrigerator Ice Is Dirty — Troubleshooting Guide

Dirty, discolored, or bad-tasting ice from a Kenmore refrigerator is caused by one of three issues: a contaminated water filter, degraded ice maker components, or the ice itself absorbing odors and particles during storage. The specific filter system and ice maker design depend on your Kenmore platform — the 106/596-series (Whirlpool) uses EveryDrop filters while the 795-series (LG) uses LT-series filters, and they are not interchangeable.

Types of "Dirty" Ice and Their Causes

Water Filter Expired or Exhausted (50% of Cases)

How Kenmore Water Filters Work

All Kenmore refrigerators with ice makers and water dispensers use a carbon block water filter. The activated carbon removes chlorine, sediment, and certain contaminants. Over time (approximately 6 months or 200 gallons), the carbon becomes saturated and can no longer adsorb contaminants. Beyond saturation, the filter can actually release previously captured particles back into the water — making ice dirtier than unfiltered water.

Platform-Specific Filters

106/596-Series (Whirlpool platform): Uses Whirlpool EveryDrop filters. Most common: Filter 1 (EDR1RXD1, internal upper-right), Filter 2 (EDR2RXD1, internal base grille), or Filter 4 (EDR4RXD1, internal). The model-specific filter type depends on the ice maker and water system design.

795-Series (LG platform): Uses LG LT700P (internal, upper-right of fridge) or LT1000P (newer models). These filters physically look different from Whirlpool filters and use a different mounting mechanism.

Critical warning about aftermarket filters: Third-party "compatible" filters for both platforms frequently use lower-grade carbon that breaks down faster, releasing black carbon particles into the water. If you are seeing black specks in your ice and using a non-OEM filter, switch to the genuine OEM filter and the problem will likely resolve.

Parts Cost: $30–$55 (OEM filter) Replacement interval: Every 6 months or when the filter indicator light activates

Filter Replacement Procedure

1. Locate the filter (inside the fridge, typically upper-right or base grille depending on model).
2. Turn the old filter counterclockwise (1/4 turn on most models) and pull straight out.
3. Remove the cap from the new filter (if applicable) and insert.
4. Turn clockwise until it locks (you will feel a click on LG-platform models).
5. Run 2–3 gallons of water through the dispenser to flush the new filter (discard this water).
6. Reset the filter indicator on the control panel.

Ice Maker Tray Deterioration (20% of Cases)

106/596-Series (Whirlpool Platform) — Harvest Finger Coating

Older Whirlpool-platform ice makers use metal harvest fingers with a protective coating. This coating can deteriorate over years, and flakes may end up in the ice. Additionally, mineral deposits (calcium, lime) build up on the ice mold over time, giving ice a chalky taste and appearance.

795-Series (LG Platform) — Craft Ice Maker Issues

Some 795-series models have LG's Craft Ice (round ice ball) maker. The silicone mold in the Craft Ice system can degrade over time, imparting a taste to the ice or developing mold/mildew in hard-to-clean crevices.

Fix: Clean the ice mold with a solution of warm water and white vinegar (50/50). For persistent issues, replace the ice maker assembly.

Parts Cost: $80–$200 (ice maker assembly) Professional Repair Cost: $180–$350

Ice Bin Odor Absorption (15% of Cases)

Ice is extremely porous and absorbs odors from the freezer aggressively. If the ice bin sits for more than a week without being used, the ice will taste stale. Open containers of food, spills, or strong-smelling items anywhere in the freezer affect ice taste.

Fix: Dump the entire ice bin contents, wash the bin with warm soapy water and baking soda, dry thoroughly, and let the ice maker produce fresh ice. Use a box of baking soda in the freezer to absorb ambient odors.

Water Supply Line Issues (10% of Cases)

The water supply line running from the wall valve to the refrigerator can harbor bacteria, mineral buildup, or debris — especially if it is the original copper or polyethylene line from the home's construction. Older supply lines (15+ years) in Sacramento homes can develop internal biofilm that affects water quality.

Fix: Replace the supply line with a new braided stainless steel line ($10–$20). Flush by running 2 gallons through the dispenser after connection.

Sacramento Water Quality Note

Sacramento water comes primarily from the American and Sacramento Rivers, treated by the City of Sacramento or SMUD. It is generally high-quality but moderately hard (8–12 grains per gallon). Hard water leaves mineral deposits in ice molds and on filter housings. If you notice chalky residue in the ice mold, vinegar cleaning every 3–4 months helps.

Prevention

• Replace the water filter on schedule — every 6 months, not just when the indicator light comes on (some models have inaccurate usage tracking).
• Use only OEM filters — aftermarket filters are the #1 cause of black carbon particles in ice.
• Dump and refresh ice if the ice maker has not been used for more than a week.
• Clean the ice bin monthly with warm water and baking soda.
• Do not store strong-smelling foods uncovered in the freezer.

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Dirty or bad-tasting ice from your Kenmore refrigerator? Our technicians inspect the filter system, ice maker, and supply line to identify the source. Schedule a repair →