How to Clean an Ice Maker? Follow 6 Steps

Have you noticed that your ice cubes have a funky taste or an awful smell? Chances are that your ice maker is dirty, and it is time to clean it. So, how do you clean an ice maker?

Ice makers accumulate dirt, mineral deposits, and bacteria. Thus, it would be best to clean your icemaker at least two times a year. Clean more regularly if you are a frequent user and have hard water. Regular use leads to a faster accumulation of dirt. At the same time,  hard water leaves mineral deposits that can spoil the internal components.

Our guide will outline simple steps on how to clean an ice maker.

Read on!

6 Steps on How to Clean an Ice Maker

You should clean your ice maker regularly even if it produces the best tasting ice cubes. Use cleaners recommended by the fridge manufacturer or use vinegar and mild soap for effective results.

Follow the steps below for a fresh ice maker.

1. Clear the Fridge and Freezer

Unwanted items and food leftovers in your fridge spread lousy odor and taste to your ice cubes. So, before cleaning the ice maker, get rid of expired, smelly, and unwanted items.

Moreover, wipe out spills in the freezer or surrounding areas with warm soapy water.

2. Unplug the Refrigerator

Before cleaning the ice maker, unplug the fridge, so the machine does not produce ice cubes. The cleaning process should take a little time, so do not worry that the food in the fridge and freezer will spoil.

Transfer the food to coolers if you have to leave the house or attend to other stuff during cleaning.

3. Remove and Clean the Ice Bin

Follow the instructions in the user manual to remove the ice bin. Depending on the brand, you might have to lift it or pull it out like a drawer.

Dispose of the ice in the kitchen sink and remove any removable bin parts for proper cleaning. Use a clean sponge, mild soap, and warm water to clean all the plastic parts. Air them to dry or dry them with kitchen towels.

Remember that the removable parts are not dishwasher safe.

4. Remove the Ice Frozen To the Ice Maker

If the ice maker has ice frozen inside, dip a clean kitchen cloth in warm soapy water and use it to dislodge the ice. You can also break the ice using an ice pick.

Once you get rid of all the ice, clean the interior of the ice maker using a sponge and warm soapy water.  Use a brush to clean the parts you cannot reach with the sponge.

You can also use 50/50 warm water and vinegar solution to clean the inside and exterior of the ice maker.

Wipe the ice maker dry with a clean washcloth, reassemble it, and put it back in place.

5. Check the Refrigerator Water Filter

The water filter gets clogged with water minerals which results in slow water flow. Moreover, an old water filter influences the smell and taste of ice cubes.

It would be best if you changed the water filters every 6 months for quality and fresh ice cubes.

6. Plug the Refrigerator Back In

After cleaning the ice maker and checking the filter, plug in the fridge and allow the ice maker to run. Dispose of the ice cubes produced in the first 2 to 3 cycles.

You can now enjoy fresh ice cubes again, and remember to clean the ice maker after 3 to 6 months.

Wrap Up

It would be best if you cleaned your ice maker at least twice a year because regular use leads to the accumulation of dirt and mineral deposits. In that case, you have probably been using it for a long time and it is time to purchase a new one. Check www.kismile.com for quality and affordable ice makers.