Inside of an ice maker filled with ice

5 Steps to Clean an Ice Maker

Properly and routinely cleaning your ice maker can help ensure your family has clean, fresh ice for their favourite drinks whenever they want, while also contributing to your appliance’s overall maintenance. Ultimately, the last thing you want is a glass filled with cloudy ice cubes. 

 

The steps outlined in this article will show you how to clean a freestanding refrigerator ice maker properly. You can also read this article if you want to learn how a fridge ice maker works.

An open ice maker filled with ice

How to clean a refrigerator ice machine

Supplies

  • Approved ice maker cleaner. Affresh® Ice Machine Cleaner1 is recommended for Whirlpool® Ice Makers
  • Washcloth
Ice bin icon

Step 1: Remove the ice bin from the freezer

The first step is to turn off your unit and disconnect the power supply. Then, remove the ice bin from the freezer by inserting your fingers into the hole at the base of the bin and squeezing the latch. Once released, lift the bin and pull it out.

Ice cube icon

Step 2: Empty the bin of ice

Remove the remaining ice and place it into a bucket or sink. Make sure to check that there isn’t any leftover ice frozen onto the bin. If you spot some ice, use a washcloth with warm water to melt it.

Cleaning icon

Step 3: Clean the ice dispenser chute

If your ice maker is not dispensing ice regularly, you may need to clean out the ice dispenser chute beneath the ice storage bin. To do so, use a warm washcloth to wipe down the chute. This should melt and dislodge any built-up ice particles. The last step is to ensure it is thoroughly dry.

Ice maker cleaner icon

Step 4: Clean the ice bin

With a warm washcloth and an approved ice machine cleaner, wipe the ice bin until there is no remaining residue. You must thoroughly dry the bin before returning it to the freezer.

Press button icon

Step 5: Run some cycles

After cleaning and replacing the ice maker bin, you should run and discard a few cycles of ice. This will help ensure there are no traces of the solution in the system.

Can you use vinegar to clean an ice machine?

Vinegar contains antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it a proven and effective method for helping get rid of germs, mould, and mildew. While an approved ice machine cleaner is often the most recommended for Whirlpool® refrigerator and freestanding models, a homemade fifty-fifty solution of water and distilled white vinegar can be a substitute for cleaning your ice maker.

How to remove or descale other build-up from an ice maker?

If your ice maker bin has built-up mould or residue, remove it from the unit and use a washcloth and approved ice machine cleaner or a homemade water and vinegar solution to clean the residue. For more stubborn residue or hard-to-reach places, a toothbrush can be used to scrub the area.

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