Whirlpool Ice Maker Kit Roundup: Finding the Exact Fit for Your Refrigerator
Selecting the right whirlpool ice maker kit requires distinguishing between a full field installation package designed to introduce automated ice production to an unequipped freezer and a dedicated replacement module engineered to restore a failed harvest cycle.
What this report covers
- Models assessed
- 6
- Our score range
- 8.6 – 9.8/10
- Last updated
- 25 Sep 2026
Figures above are read from the product listings for the models named below. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback.
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Selecting the right whirlpool ice maker kit requires distinguishing between a full field installation package designed to introduce automated ice production to an unequipped freezer and a dedicated replacement module engineered to restore a failed harvest cycle. Busy professionals facing unexpected appliance downtime often discover that diagnosing worn mechanical gears, failed mold heaters, or calcified water inlet valves quickly points toward replacing the entire assembly rather than rebuilding subcomponents by hand. Finding the ideal fit hinges on identifying your cabinet width, verifying the electrical harness connector inside your freezer compartment, and determining whether your refrigerator utilizes an open-shelf storage bin or an in-door dispenser chute. For shoppers weighing built-in repairs against external appliances, evaluating options like an igloo portable ice machine highlights how a properly functioning built-in unit provides hands-off convenience without consuming valuable countertop space.
The Whirlpool ice maker lineup spans three primary formats across both genuine factory hardware and certified aftermarket assemblies. Complete add-on kits provide the full spectrum of mechanical and plumbing parts, including secondary water inlet valves, copper or polymer supply tubing, and dedicated collection pans intended for refrigerators that left the assembly line without an ice maker. Direct replacement assemblies focus entirely on the core electromechanical freezing head, allowing homeowners with pre-existing plumbing and electrical feeds to complete a swift swap. Finally, specialized side-by-side assemblies address vertical in-door door dispensers with custom housings and drive couplers. Conducting a thorough whirlpool ice maker kit comparison ensures that you purchase the exact wiring harness and mechanical form factor your refrigerator requires without paying for redundant water lines or running into pin incompatibility during installation.
Criteria matrix What each model in this report is credited with
Rows are the criteria that come up in the pros and cons listed for this lineup. A check means the criterion is named in this report’s write-up of that model; a dash means it is not. Criteria that apply to every model, or to only one, are left out because they separate nothing.
| Criterion | Whirlpool 1129313 Genuine OEM 9.6/10 | W11729596 Ice Maker Kit 8.6/10 | Refrigerator ICE Maker KIT 9.8/10 | 4317943 Icemaker Kit for 9.4/10 | Bare Ice Maker Fits 9.8/10 | Whirlpool W10873791 Genuine OEM 9.6/10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part numbers | Named | Named | Not named | Named | Named | Named |
| Listing | Not named | Named | Named | Named | Named | Named |
| Valve | Named | Named | Named | Named | Named | Not named |
| Compatibility | Not named | Named | Not named | Named | Named | Named |
| Water supply | Not named | Named | Named | Not named | Not named | Not named |
| Factory part | Named | Not named | Named | Not named | Not named | Not named |
| Genuine OEM | Named | Not named | Not named | Not named | Not named | Named |
| Storage bin | Named | Not named | Not named | Named | Not named | Not named |
| Criteria named | 5 / 8 | 5 / 8 | 4 / 8 | 5 / 8 | 4 / 8 | 4 / 8 |
Built from the wording of this report, not from a bench test. A dash is not a fault: it only means the write-up does not mention that point for that model. Scores next to each model are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback.
Whirlpool Ice Maker Kits Lineup at a Glance
| Model | Component Category | Primary Refrigerator Fitment | Included Installation Hardware |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whirlpool 1129313 Genuine OEM Add On | Complete Factory Add-On Kit | 30, 33, and 36-inch wide cabinets | Wiring harness, fill tubes, water valve, ice bin, mounting hardware, instructions |
| W11729596 Ice Maker Kit for Whirlpool | Multi-Harness Replacement Kit | Top-mount and side-by-side units with 5 or 8-pin plugs | Ice maker, ice cube pan, water valve, 72-inch water line, multiple wire harnesses, hardware |
| Refrigerator ICE Maker KIT | Core Mechanical Replacement | Whirlpool platforms matching W11729596 specifications | Base replacement module |
| 4317943 Icemaker Kit for Whirlpool Refrigerator | High-Wattage Replacement Assembly | Whirlpool top-mount lines (AH530, CK171614, A8RX series) | 185-watt 1-liter ice maker assembly |
| Bare Ice Maker Fits Whirlpool WPW10190965 | Bare Electromechanical Head | Whirlpool, Roper, and Estate units matching D7824706Q | Bare metal and plastic ice mold and ejection drive |
| Whirlpool W10873791 Genuine OEM SxS Refrigerator | OEM In-Door Dispenser Assembly | Whirlpool and KitchenAid side-by-side models (WRS, KRSC series) | Complete 10-cube ice maker assembly with integrated housing |
The Models in Detail
Whirlpool 1129313 Genuine OEM Add On

Best for: Standard 30 to 36 inch Whirlpool cabinets
Pros
- Genuine OEM factory engineering
- Complete add-on kit with valve and bin
- Includes installation hardware and instructions
Cons
- Restricted to 30, 33, and 36-inch cabinets
- Heavier multi-component shipping weight
The Whirlpool 1129313 Genuine OEM Add On represents the factory standard for equipping a bare refrigerator with automated ice production. Engineered directly by Whirlpool to original equipment specifications, this full field kit is specifically designed for refrigerator models featuring 30-inch, 33-inch, and 36-inch wide cabinets. Weighing three pounds, the package includes every mechanical and plumbing component necessary to complete a clean installation, containing a dedicated wiring harness, cabinet fill tubes, a secondary water valve, a durable ice storage bin, mounting brackets, fasteners, and clear installation instructions. By supplying original factory components, it guarantees that electrical resistance ratings and water flow volumes match factory design thresholds precisely.
From an engineering perspective, this whirlpool oem ice maker kit serves as the definitive replacement for an extensive roster of superseded factory part numbers, including 1105298, 1114185, 1118554, 1118555, 1118746, 1129312, 1129313VP, 1129314, 2290, 468150, 8050, 8150, 940556, 941555, 984827, 987613, and 99989732. It also directly replaces early field installation packages across the ECK-MF family, encompassing designations from ECK-MF11 and ECK-MF2 through ECK-MF64. Because the whirlpool 1129313 integrates factory-molded quick connectors and matched fill spouts, it eliminates wire stripping and tube crimping during setup.
This comprehensive package is the premier option for homeowners who own an unequipped top-mount or bottom-freezer refrigerator that requires complete plumbing and electrical integration from scratch. However, if your existing refrigerator already has functional water lines, an undamaged storage container, and an operable dual-solenoid water valve, purchasing this full kit will introduce redundant parts. In those focused repair scenarios, selecting a standalone modular head provides a more direct alternative, leaving the 1129313 as the definitive choice for ground-up installations.
W11729596 Ice Maker Kit for Whirlpool

Best for: Freezers with 5 or 8 pin plugs
Pros
- Multiple interchangeable wiring harnesses
- Includes 72-inch water supply line
- Covers top-mount and side-by-side models
Cons
- Incompatible with round plug connections
- Aftermarket replacement brand
The W11729596 Ice Maker Kit for Whirlpool from Kitchen Basics 101 is an adaptable aftermarket package engineered to resolve wiring compatibility issues across a broad spectrum of refrigerators. Appliance manufacturers frequently adjust wiring harness connector pinouts between model generations, and this kit directly addresses that challenge by including multiple wiring harnesses. The package supplies Harness #1 with a 4-wire, 8-terminal straight plug for standard freezer receptacles, Harness #2 with a 4-wire, 5-terminal straight plug, and Harness #4 configured with a 4-wire to 4-pin straight plug. This configuration variety allows seamless electrical mating across compatible Whirlpool, Kenmore, Amana, and Maytag appliances without requiring wire cutting.
Beyond electrical versatility, this field install package delivers a comprehensive hardware bundle designed to replace or upgrade ice production in top-mount and side-by-side refrigerators. Included inside the box are the ice maker assembly, an ice cube collection pan, a replacement electric water valve, mounting hardware, a generous 72-inch water line, and two wire harnesses. The listing states that this assembly supersedes part numbers AP7244933, W11517113, W11510803, IMKIT94, KIMS9, W11534202, W11534203, W11698621, and W11698624. Installers should note that the listing explicitly restricts application to refrigerators utilizing 5-wire or 8-wire pin connections, confirming that round plug receptacles are unsupported.
This kit is ideal for property owners who need a complete refresh of both the mechanical ice maker and the water delivery valve in a top-mount or traditional side-by-side refrigerator. It gives way to dedicated in-door assemblies when servicing modern French door or side-by-side models that locate the ice bin inside the vertical freezer door, as the horizontal pan and bracket included here are designed exclusively for open shelf compartments.
Refrigerator ICE Maker KIT

Best for: Direct mechanical W11729596 core replacements
Pros
- Matches factory part number W11729596
- Compact single-module replacement
Cons
- Listing omits accessory details
- No additional wire harnesses included
Cataloged under Whirlpool part number W11729596 with UPC 883049703350, the Refrigerator ICE Maker KIT is a targeted replacement unit designed to swap out an exhausted mechanical assembly. While the product listing notes that Stens replacement parts have earned widespread adoption among trade professionals for dependable mechanical performance, the module itself adheres to standard Whirlpool factory geometry. It provides an exact physical fit for refrigerators engineered around the common whirlpool w11729596 component footprint, allowing service technicians to execute a clean swap inside the freezer cabinet.
Unlike extensive field conversion kits that package secondary water inlet valves, extensive plumbing runs, and auxiliary collection pans, this listing designates the included component simply as the core item. The listing does not specify the inclusion of secondary adapter harnesses, long water supply lines, or replacement collection bins. Consequently, installers must verify that their current internal wire harness, cabinet fill tube, and plastic ice bucket are in clean, operable condition before installing this unit. It relies on the pre-existing mounting points and electrical leads inside the freezer wall.
This streamlined unit is best suited for experienced DIYers and property maintenance managers seeking a direct mechanical replacement to address a failed ejector arm or seized motor in a refrigerator that already has intact wiring and plumbing. If your refrigerator lacks an existing water valve or requires multiple wiring harness adapters to fit an uncommon connector block, the multi-harness kits discussed earlier provide a safer pathway.
4317943 Icemaker Kit for Whirlpool Refrigerator

Best for: Classic top-mount Whirlpool refrigerator lines
Pros
- High 185-watt operating power
- Generous 1-liter ice mold capacity
- Direct fit for A8RX and AH530 series
Cons
- Storage bin not included
- Aftermarket third-party manufacturer
The 4317943 Icemaker Kit for Whirlpool Refrigerator by FRIGESWIFT is a high-power, direct-replacement assembly engineered to restore reliable ice harvesting in classic top-mount freezers. Operating on standard 115-volt household current, this robust unit draws 185 watts of power to drive its internal mold heater and motor assembly, ensuring efficient cube separation during each cycle. The module features an integrated mold with a 1-liter volumetric fluid capacity, measures 11.4 inches deep, 4.6 inches wide, and 4.8 inches high, and is engineered for refrigeration circuits operating with R134a refrigerant.
The core asset of the whirlpool 4317943 configuration is its confirmed compatibility across legacy Whirlpool appliance series. The listing highlights seamless compatibility with specific refrigerator models including AH530-720/01, AH530-790/01, CK171614/01, A8RXCGFXS00, A8RXCGFXW00, A8RXNGMWB00, A8RXNGMWB01, A8RXNGMWB02, A8RXNGMWD00, A8RXNGMWN00, A8RXNGMWN01, A8RXNGMWS00, A8RXNGMWS01, and A8RXNGMWS02. It serves as an interchangeable replacement for legacy part numbers RIM943, 4210317, 797991, 625601, W10122496, 833701, W10281545, and W10190952. For homeowners researching diverse kitchen ice solutions, comparing this built-in assembly with standalone appliances such as frigidaire bullet ice makers countertop clarifies the difference between high-wattage integrated freezer molds and portable bullet-style units.
This unit is specifically tailored for owners of traditional top-mount Whirlpool refrigerators seeking a direct electrical and mechanical replacement for a failing horizontal ice maker. Because it includes only the core ice maker module without an external water valve or ice bucket, it is not configured for ground-up add-on installations where no ice maker previously existed.
Bare Ice Maker Fits Whirlpool WPW10190965
Best for: Servicing bare ice head mechanisms
Pros
- Durable metal and plastic construction
- Replaces classic D7824706Q part numbers
- Broad compatibility with Roper and Estate
Cons
- Bare head without valves or lines
- Listing description contains typographical errors
The Bare Ice Maker Fits Whirlpool WPW10190965 manufactured by ClimaTek is a focused, cost-effective replacement head engineered to restore freezing mechanics without superfluous accessories. Built with a durable combination of metal mold casting and high-impact plastic drive housing, this 115-volt unit automates the complete production sequence. It receives water from the pre-existing inlet valve, retains it within the tray mold until solid, and then powers the ejector blades to harvest the cubes into the bin before triggering the refill sequence automatically until the mechanical arm detects a full bin.
This bare assembly offers extensive cross-platform compatibility across Whirlpool, Roper, and Estate appliances. It corresponds directly to model designation D7824706Q and replaces part numbers 10549201, 10563707, 10563708, 61005508, 61005508A, 824706q, 67001263, 68111-1, 68972-1, 8170937, 95091-1, 95109-1, D7767601, D7824701, D7824702, D7824703, D7824704, D7824705, and D7824705.05q. While the listing title also references interchangeability with numbers 4317943, W10190965, and 1129313, buyers must recognize that this item contains only the bare mechanical unit, omitting all external plumbing lines, fill funnels, and wiring harnesses.
Homeowners or appliance technicians should choose this bare unit when diagnostic testing reveals that the refrigerator’s existing wire harness, water solenoid valve, shut-off bail arm, and bin are in fully functional shape, isolating the fault to a stripped drive gear or burned-out mold heater. If your repair demands a new electrical harness connector or replacement plumbing tubes, selecting a fully equipped field kit is required.
Whirlpool W10873791 Genuine OEM SxS Refrigerator
Best for: Modern side-by-side in-door dispensers
Pros
- Genuine OEM 10-cube assembly
- Official one-year factory warranty
- Direct fit for WRS and KRSC models
Cons
- Requires novice door liner disassembly
- Incompatible with top-mount open-shelf freezers
The Whirlpool W10873791 Genuine OEM SxS Refrigerator Ice Maker Assembly is a precision-engineered factory replacement designed specifically for modern side-by-side refrigerators with through-the-door dispensing. Manufactured directly by Whirlpool and supported by an official one-year warranty, this OEM assembly weighs 1.43 pounds and measures 7.44 by 14.44 by 7.38 inches. Engineered to operate inside space-restricted vertical door compartments, the complete module integrates a 10-cube mold tray, mechanical sweep ejector, and protective housing designed to route ice directly into the dispenser chute.
As an authentic factory replacement, the whirlpool w10873791 matches specific refrigerator platforms engineered with in-door ice storage. The listing confirms precise compatibility with major Whirlpool and KitchenAid side-by-side models, including WRS571CIHZ, WRS588FIHZ, WRS555SIHZ, KRSC703HPS, and WRS588FIHV. Furthermore, it directly replaces earlier factory revisions, superseding part numbers W10760070, W10798411, W10847507, W11130444, and W11646278. The integrated housing ensures proper alignment with the door drive coupler, preventing ice jams and dispenser motor burnout.
This specialized side by side whirlpool ice maker kit replacement is the essential choice for owners of compatible WRS and KRSC refrigerators dealing with cracked mold coatings, motor drive failures, or persistent harvest errors in their door dispenser. Installing the module requires basic hand tools, partial disassembly of the inner door cover, and novice repair skills, alongside disconnecting the refrigerator from electrical power before servicing. It cannot be used in traditional open-shelf freezers, which require horizontal modular units like the 1129313 or 4317943.
Matching a Model to Your Setup
- For an unequipped Whirlpool refrigerator with a 30, 33, or 36-inch wide cabinet requiring a factory-original ground-up installation: choose the Whirlpool 1129313 Genuine OEM Add On to obtain all original fill tubes, secondary valves, wiring, and storage containers.
- For a top-mount or side-by-side refrigerator where wiring flexibility is critical: choose the W11729596 Ice Maker Kit for Whirlpool to take advantage of its 4-wire 8-terminal, 5-terminal, and 4-pin interchangeable harnesses and 72-inch supply line.
- For a straightforward core replacement on a system pre-configured for part number W11729596 with intact original wiring: select the Refrigerator ICE Maker KIT.
- For classic top-mount freezers matching model series A8RX or AH530 requiring a high-output 185-watt motor: select the 4317943 Icemaker Kit for Whirlpool Refrigerator.
- For older Whirlpool, Roper, or Estate appliances where only the central mold and ejector head have failed: choose the Bare Ice Maker Fits Whirlpool WPW10190965 to keep repair costs focused on the failed mechanical core.
- For modern Whirlpool or KitchenAid side-by-side refrigerators with in-door ice and water dispensers matching model WRS571CIHZ or KRSC703HPS: install the Whirlpool W10873791 Genuine OEM SxS Refrigerator for an exact factory fit backed by a one-year warranty.
Before You Buy
Before purchasing any whirlpool refrigerator ice maker replacement, examine the physical connector plug and harness style inside your freezer compartment. While some multi-harness aftermarket kits include multiple adapters covering 4-pin, 5-pin, and 8-pin configurations, standalone replacement heads and bare modules do not supply auxiliary jumper wires. If your appliance features an older circular plug or an uncommon terminal spacing, attempting to install a bare replacement head without the matching harness will stall your repair. Additionally, verify whether your refrigerator model tag matches the part numbers listed by the manufacturer, particularly when working with legacy models across Roper, Estate, or older Whirlpool lines.
It is equally important to inspect your household water supply and internal plumbing hardware before assuming the ice maker itself has failed. Symptoms such as hollow cubes or a complete cessation of ice production can stem from a clogged water filter, a frozen fill tube extension, or a failed water inlet solenoid valve rather than a defective ice mold motor. When comparing residential appliance plumbing against dedicated designs like a ge profile ice maker, built-in refrigerator systems require sustained household water pressure between 20 and 120 PSI to open the inlet valve diaphragm cleanly. Be aware that several product listings for bare heads and basic kits do not specify operating pressure tolerances or fill tube diameters, requiring you to verify that your existing water line hardware remains functional before installation.
FAQ
How do I know which whirlpool ice maker kit to buy for my refrigerator?
To determine the exact match, check the model number printed on the cabinet rating tag located along the interior refrigerator wall or door frame, rather than relying on exterior marketing labels. Determine whether your refrigerator requires a full field add-on kit with external plumbing valves and an ice bin (such as the Whirlpool 1129313 for 30- to 36-inch cabinets) or a direct modular replacement for an existing unit. For standard replacements, examine the shape and pin count of your freezer harness plug to confirm whether a 4-pin, 5-pin, 8-pin, or dedicated in-door assembly like the W10873791 is required.
What is the difference between an OEM Whirlpool kit and an aftermarket replacement?
A genuine OEM kit, such as the Whirlpool 1129313 or Whirlpool W10873791, is manufactured directly by Whirlpool to precise factory engineering specifications and typically includes an official one-year warranty along with exact-fit mounting brackets and connectors. Aftermarket kits, produced by specialized brands like Kitchen Basics 101, FRIGESWIFT, or ClimaTek, are engineered to match or supersede original part numbers, often offering versatile multi-harness bundles at distinct price-to-performance levels. OEM units provide certified material specifications, while aftermarket packages offer flexible wiring choices for varied setups.
Can I use an in-door side-by-side ice maker in a top-mount freezer?
No, in-door ice maker assemblies like the Whirlpool W10873791 cannot be installed in top-mount freezers. In-door assemblies are designed with vertical housings, specific drive couplers, and enclosed chutes configured specifically to interface with the door dispenser cavity of compatible side-by-side models. Top-mount freezers utilize horizontal ice makers, such as the 4317943 or 1129313, which mount to the freezer interior wall and drop ice directly downward into an open shelf-mounted collection container.
What tools and mechanical experience are required to replace a Whirlpool ice maker?
Replacing an ice maker is a manageable task for novice DIYers and generally requires only basic hand tools, such as a 1/4-inch nut driver, a flathead screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. Before beginning the repair, you must unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet or turn off the home circuit breaker serving the appliance to prevent electrical shock. Installation typically involves removing two or three mounting screws, unplugging the wiring harness clip, seating the new assembly on the bracket, reconnecting the plug, and re-securing the screws.
How long should I wait for my new ice maker to produce its first batch of ice?
After installing a replacement ice maker, the freezer compartment typically requires 12 to 24 hours to reach a sufficiently low operating temperature to trigger the internal thermostat and begin cycling. The internal mold thermostat will not allow the water inlet valve to energize until the cabinet temperature drops below 15 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 9 degrees Celsius). Once normal operating temperature is achieved, ensure that the metal shut-off bail arm is lowered into the operational position and the water supply valve behind the refrigerator is turned on fully.