KitchenAid Ice Maker ER Error: Communication Failure
What Does KitchenAid Ice Maker Error Code Er Mean? Er on a KitchenAid stand-alone ice maker is documented as a Communication Failure. The user interface control board and the main control board exchange messages continuously over an internal serial bus. When either side stops hearing valid messages, the ice maker sets Er and locks control […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. A communication fault means the UI cannot reliably command the ice maker. Production may continue or may have stopped — either state is unsafe to rely on.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. A full 5-minute power reset clears transient Er events. Persistent faults after reset require service.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Er returns immediately after every power reset, Display behavior is erratic with random segments.
Symptoms You May Notice
Display shows Er and controls unresponsive
The panel shows Er continuously and touch inputs produce no effect. The ice maker cannot be controlled from the front interface.
Display blank or flickering with intermittent Er
The display alternates between blank and showing Er as the internal communication link drops and recovers repeatedly.
LEDs illuminate but normal information missing
Status LEDs are lit (indicating power is reaching the UI) but temperature, production status, or cleaning indicator information is missing from the display.
Possible Causes
Loose ribbon cable between UI and main board
The ribbon cable connecting the user interface control to the main control board has worked loose or become damaged from vibration or a prior service access.
DIY PossibleUI control board microcontroller failure
The microcontroller on the user interface board has failed and stopped transmitting valid messages over the internal serial bus.
Requires ProfessionalMain board serial receiver failure
The receiving circuit on the main control board has failed and no longer acknowledges messages from the UI, producing the same symptom as a failed UI.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Perform a full 5-minute power reset
Unplug the ice maker for a full 5 minutes. Restore power and watch whether the display initializes normally. A transient communication glitch can latch Er until both boards reinitialize from scratch.
Note how long the fault stays cleared after the reset. A same-day recurrence indicates hardware; a return after weeks points at a marginal connector that can be reseated.
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2
Check for recent service disturbance
If the Er appeared immediately after any cleaning, filter change, or service visit, the most likely cause is a partially unseated connector disturbed during the work. Schedule service to reseat connectors properly.
Never open the control compartment yourself — high-current connections and sealed refrigerant lines require qualified technicians.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Ribbon cable reseating does not clear the fault
- UI board replacement alone does not resolve — points to main board
- Serial transmit signal missing on one end of the bus
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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