E3
Hotpoint Harvest Motor or Harvest Switch Failure

Ice maker shows E3 and does not harvest ice; ice may freeze but not release.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Failed harvest motor, Defective harvest position switch, Jammed ice in mold or on evaporator grid

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Disconnect power before working near moving parts.

  • Check for ice jams: Remove the bin and inspect the ice mold or evaporator grid. Clear any large chunks of ice blocking the harvest mechanism.
  • Manually rotate harvest mechanism: With power off, gently turn the harvest motor gear or shaft (if accessible). It should move smoothly. Binding or grinding indicates a bad motor or mechanical obstruction.
  • Inspect harvest switch: Locate the harvest position switch near the motor. Ensure the actuator is not broken or stuck. Check wiring connections.
  • Test motor (advanced): With the motor disconnected and using a multimeter, check for proper resistance across motor terminals. An open circuit suggests a failed motor.
  • Replace faulty parts: If the motor is seized or the switch is physically damaged, replace the harvest motor assembly or harvest switch using OEM Hotpoint parts.

Reassemble, restore power, and run a harvest test if your model supports it. Persistent E3 may indicate a control board issue requiring professional diagnosis.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Harvest Motor Assembly
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