Icemaker Maintenance Tips
Most refrigerator models have built-in ice makers which allow you to push a button and get some ice for your drinks or just cool water in a hot summer day. It is so convenient to have ice ready whenever you want or need. Do not let a broken icemaker bring you any inconveniences. Follow these simple maintenance tips to keep your ice maker running properly for a long time:
Replace the water filter
Replace the water filter every six months, depending on how often you use it and your refrigerator model. A dirty filter restricts the water flow and does not allow the ice maker to fill completely. It may cause the motor overheating. Using the ice from the ice maker with a dirty filter can also cause problems with your health. So replace the water filter regularly.
Clean an ice dispenser
The ice dispenser requires regular maintenance especially in areas with hard water, where lime deposits may clog dispensers. Clean of the dispenser nozzles every week or more often, depending on how quickly limescale builds. Use only approved chemical products to prevent the damage of surface materials.
As a first step, unplug the refrigerator. Use a clean cloth soaked in white vinegar. Leave it
atop lime deposits for 3-4 minutes if the layer of lime on the door ice dispenser is thick.
Wipe the dirt or lime stains and rub away residue with a dry cloth. Clean the ice dispenser with a damp cloth with a little amount of liquid dish detergent. Wipe area with a clean cloth at the last time before drying.
Keep your freezer 3/4 full
It will allow the food to absorb some heat and freezer will not go through a defrosting cycle too often preventing ice in the ice maker from melting and clumping together.
Turn your ice maker on and off as needed
It will prevent ice cubes from fusing together when the bin fills up. If you find any large clumps of ice, discard them into the sink.
Prevent dirty ice
If your ice begins to look cloudy, smells or tastes badly, it is probably time to clean the ice maker. Follow these simple steps to prevent dirty ice in your ice maker:
- Turn off the ice maker.
- Remove the bin from the freezer.
- Remove the ice from the bin and let it melt in the sink.
- Make a mixture of 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup warm water.
- Soak your sponge in the mixture and scrub the bin.
- Run warm water over it until the vinegar smell has disappeared.
- Dry the bin with a cloth before returning it to the freezer.
- Once the bin has completely dried, return it to the freezer and turn your ice maker back on.
Alternate between crushed and cubed ice
To prevent blocking ice dispenser passages with frost, alternate between crushed and cubed ice and clean off frost which has been accumulated.
Maintain right freezer temperature
The freezer temperature should be set between 0 ºF and 5 ºF or between -18 and -15C for the ice maker to work properly. If the freezer temperature is too high, ensure that the condenser coils are clear of debris and the condenser fan is working properly.
Check the water supply line
Prevent your ice maker from breaking down by visually inspecting the line for blockages every few months. If you find a problem, consult with your user’s manual which includes specific instructions to clean your unit.
If you experience problems with your ice maker, it is important to contact a reliable appliance repair company. You are welcome to call us and schedule an appointment with our experienced technician and you will have guaranteed fresh and clear ice anytime you need it.