frigidaire ice maker both ADD WATER and ICE FULL lights are on at the same time. what gives?

Diagnosis

This simultaneous illumination of the "ADD WATER" and "ICE FULL" indicators on the Frigidaire EFIC189 is rarely a sign of two separate failures, but rather a systemic sensor conflict. The unit utilizes a combination of a float-switch for water levels and an infrared (IR) beam for ice detection. When both lights trigger, it typically indicates that the control board is receiving contradictory signals or the IR sensor is being "blinded," causing the logic board to default to a fail-safe error state. The most common root cause is an obstruction or misalignment of the ice bucket and the internal sensing arm. If the bucket is not seated perfectly, or if a stray ice cube is wedged against the IR emitter/receiver, the machine registers a "Full" state. Simultaneously, if the water reservoir float is stuck in the downward position due to mineral buildup or a physical jam, the "Add Water" light triggers. Alternatively, because the IR sensor operates on a specific light frequency, direct sunlight hitting the sensor window can saturate the receiver, tricking the board into thinking the bin is full while simultaneously triggering a system glitch that flags the water level as low.

How to Fix It

To resolve this sensor conflict, follow these precise steps to reset the hardware and clear the sensors:

1. Power down the unit by unplugging it from the wall outlet. Let it sit for 60 seconds to clear the volatile memory on the control board.
2. Remove the ice basket entirely. Inspect the bottom of the interior cavity for any stray ice shards or debris that may be blocking the water intake or the float switch.
3. Locate the IR sensor—the small clear window/lens located near the top rim of the interior. Use a microfiber cloth and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the lens. Any film, frost, or grime here will trigger a false "ICE FULL" reading.
4. Check the water reservoir float. Gently push the float up and down with your finger to ensure it moves freely. If it feels gritty or stuck, rinse the reservoir with warm water to dissolve calcium deposits.
5. Ensure the unit is placed on a completely level surface. If the EFIC189 is tilted, the water float may lean against the side of the tank, triggering the "ADD WATER" light even when full.
6. Reinsert the ice basket, ensuring it clicks firmly into place.
7. Plug the unit back in and wait 2 minutes for the system to calibrate before attempting to start a new cycle.

If That Didn't Work

• Relocate the Unit: If the machine is sitting on a countertop near a window, move it to a shaded area. The IR sensors in the EFIC189 are highly sensitive to ultraviolet and infrared light from the sun, which can override the "Ice Full" sensor and cause the dual-light glitch.
• Perform a Hard Reset: While the unit is plugged in, press and hold the "Power" button for 10 seconds, then unplug the unit for 10 full minutes. This forces the control board to discharge and can clear "ghost" error codes that persist after a simple power cycle.
• Deep Clean the Float Chamber: If the "ADD WATER" light persists, use a toothpick to clear any slime or mineral buildup from the narrow channel where the float resides. Even a small amount of debris can prevent the float from rising high enough to signal the board.
• Check for Overfilling: Ensure you have not exceeded the "MAX" fill line in the reservoir. Overfilling can sometimes cause the float to lodge against the top of the tank, creating a sensor paradox that triggers both warning lights.

Heads Up

• Avoid using distilled water; the sensors and the internal components of the EFIC189 perform better with filtered tap water, as some minerals are actually necessary for certain sensing elements to function correctly.
• Never use abrasive scrubbers on the IR sensor window, as scratching the plastic will refract the beam and lead to permanent "ICE FULL" false positives.
• Empty the ice basket daily. Allowing ice to clump together can put undue pressure on the sensing arm, potentially bending the mechanism and causing intermittent light errors.
• Ensure there is at least 4 inches of clearance around the vents to prevent overheating, as excessive heat can cause the control board to malfunction and trigger random indicator lights.