Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM): Max Fill / Max Purge (CIM Series)
Severity
medium
Difficulty
Easy
Time
15-30 min
Pro Cost
$100-$300
| Error Code | Error 3 (CIM) |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Max Fill / Max Purge (CIM Series) |
| Quick Fix | Verify water supply valve is fully open |
| Tools Needed | Water pressure gauge, Soft brush for float switch |
| Affected Models | CIM0320, CIM0430, CIM0530, CIM0636, CIM0836, CIM1136, CIM1446, CIM2046 |
Ice-O-Matic Error Error 3 (CIM) indicates max fill / max purge (cim series). CIM series Error 3 indicates the fill cycle exceeded 5 minutes or the purge cycle exceeded 2 minutes. Both the Power LED (quick flash red) and Clean LED (quick flash yellow) are active.
What Causes Ice-O-Matic Error Error 3 (CIM)?
Possible Causes
- 1 Low water pressure preventing fill within 5 minutes
- 2 Clogged water filter restricting flow (Houston hard water)
- 3 Water inlet solenoid valve not opening fully
- 4 Purge valve stuck or not functioning
- 5 Float switch stuck due to mineral deposits
Affected Models
Houston Climate Factor
Houston's hard water clogs filters and coats float switches with scale. Replace filters every 3 months and clean the float switch at every service visit.
Tools & Parts You'll Need
Tools Required
- Water pressure gauge
- Soft brush for float switch
Parts That May Be Needed
- Water filter $30-$60
- Water inlet valve $45-$85
- Purge valve $40-$80
How to Fix Ice-O-Matic Error Error 3 (CIM)
Follow these steps to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the Error 3 (CIM) error on your Ice-O-Matic ice machine.
Before You Start
- 1. Disconnect power — unplug your Ice-O-Matic ice machine
- 2. Turn off water supply — prevent leaks during repair
- 3. Check warranty — DIY repairs may void coverage
Step 1
Verify water supply valve is fully open
Step 2
Replace water filter if more than 3 months old (Houston hard water)
Step 3
Clean float switch of mineral deposits
Step 4
Check drain line for clogs if purge-related
Did these steps resolve the error?
Great news!
To prevent this from happening again, check the prevention tips below.
View Prevention TipsLooks like you need a pro
This Error 3 (CIM) error on your Ice-O-Matic may require professional diagnosis. Houston technicians can typically resolve this for $100-$300.
How to Prevent Ice-O-Matic Error Error 3 (CIM)
Replace water filter every 3 months with Houston hard water
Clean float switch during every service visit
Flush drain lines monthly
When to Call a Ice-O-Matic Professional
If water supply checks out, inlet valve or purge valve replacement needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Ice-O-Matic error Error 3 (CIM) mean?
CIM series Error 3 indicates the fill cycle exceeded 5 minutes or the purge cycle exceeded 2 minutes. Both the Power LED (quick flash red) and Clean LED (quick flash yellow) are active.
How do I fix Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM) error?
To fix Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM): Verify water supply valve is fully open. Replace water filter if more than 3 months old (Houston hard water). Clean float switch of mineral deposits. If water supply checks out, inlet valve or purge valve replacement needed.
Is Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM) serious?
Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM) is rated as medium severity. Some DIY troubleshooting may help, but professional service may be needed.
How much does it cost to fix Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM)?
Typical repair cost for Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM) is $100-$300. This includes diagnosis, parts, and labor. Professional ice machine cleaning in Houston starts at $199.
What tools do I need to fix Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM)?
You'll need: Water pressure gauge, Soft brush for float switch. Always disconnect power before starting any repairs.
Can I fix Ice-O-Matic Error 3 (CIM) myself?
This repair is rated as easy difficulty. Most people can handle this with basic tools. Estimated time: 15-30 min.
Other Ice-O-Matic Error Codes
View all Ice-O-Matic codes →Diagnostic Tools
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