Countertop ice makers are a lifesaver during extreme summers. Just start the machine and you’ll have cool ice within minutes.
But to keep the ice makers running properly, they need to be cleaned and maintained properly.
Besides, a dirty ice maker can affect not only the taste of your drinks but also the overall performance of the appliance.
But don’t worry! Clean Frigidaire ice maker is simpler than you might think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 9 easy steps to get your ice maker sparkling clean and back to churning out perfect ice in no time.
Read on to find out!
Key Takeaways
Countertop Frigidaire ice makers can be cleaned at home with simple ingredients such as vinegar solution and a cleaning agent.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of ice makers extends ice maker’s longevity.
Frigidaire Ice Maker Models We Will Cover
Frigidaire manufactures various ice maker models with unique features and designs. Such as the following:
- EFIC123-SS
- EFIC117
- EFIC237
- EFIC452-SS CU
- EFIC239
- EFIC235
- EFIC206
- EFIC235
The ice maker cleaning instructions in this feature are relevant to all ice maker models. So even if the model you have isn’t listed above, you can still use this guide to clean the Frigidaire ice maker.
So, How Does My Ice Maker Get Dirty?
All household appliances collect dirt and require maintenance, even if they are used every day. Countertop ice makers can freeze water quickly so that you can enjoy cool beverages without waiting too long.
Ice makers collect dust from the outside and the internal heat from the machine can cause moisture to collect in certain parts of the machine.
Such residue over time can make the ice maker sticky and prevent its proper functioning. Also, the ventilation shaft of the ice makers may even get blocked if not cleaned once in a while, causing issues.
Why You Should Clean Your Ice Maker?
The obvious reason to clean an ice maker is hygiene. But here are some other reasons that might motivate you to keep your ice maker clean:
- Ice makers can easily collect dust, grime, and residue due to regular usage and internal heating. Such sediments will affect the purity of the ice.
- An ice maker has evaporator plates to get rid of extra moisture. These plates may get blocked without proper cleanup and slow down the icing process.
- Untreated moisture and mineral deposits on the interior of ice makers can result in mold and slime.
9 Easy Steps to Clean Your Frigidaire Ice Maker
Countertop ice makers are designed to speed up the icing process, so you can enjoy cold beverages whenever you want.
However, each ice maker has unique features that must be kept in mind when cleaning. Also, if you do not clean your ice maker, your Frigidaire ice maker may not make ice properly.
You can’t just use a regular scrub and soapy water to clean out an electric appliance. So we will present the most effective steps to keep your Frigidaire ice maker clean and improve the quality of the ice.
Here’s to how:
Step 1: Collect Necessary Items
Before you jump into cleaning, make sure you have these items at hand:
- Old clothes or towel
- Fresh and warm water
- Dish soap or detergent
- Baking soda or any equivalent cleaning agent
- White vinegar
- A measuring cup or spoon
- Old toothbrush or cotton swabs
You may have received a manual or user guide when purchasing your ice maker. So, make sure to check out the user guide and recommended directions before starting the clean-up.
Step 2: Turn Off the Ice Maker and Drain It
Start by unplugging the ice machine and let it cool down for 5-10 minutes. Make sure all the internal moisture has dried up before you start cleaning.
Next up, wait for the remaining ice to fall into the ice bin and for any ice crystals to melt. Then remove the cap to drain any water from the ice machine.
Wait another 5 minutes until the maker is completely dry and then put the drain cap back in place.
Step 3: Remove the Ice Bin and Any Removable Ice Maker Parts
Your Frigidaire ice maker consists of several parts, such as a tray, bucket, ice basket, ice bin, and any removable holder. These items should be detached and cleaned separately, as they might cause hindrance when cleaning the machine.
Plus, detach any extra cups, buckets, or compartments and soak them in soapy water. Such parts can be cleaned easily with a toothbrush and air-dried.
Sometimes you may find chipped pieces of plastic from the detachable parts. Hence, carefully remove any broken or extra parts to avoid melted plastic or any toxic substances in your beverages. Also, attach everything where it’s supposed to be after the ice maker has been cleaned.
Step 4: Clean the Interior of the Ice Maker
Moving on, use a cleaning agent or detergent to clean the interior of the ice maker. You can also prepare a simple cleaning solution at home with just kitchen ingredients.
Simply pour two spoonfuls of baking soda into warm water and mix them. Then dip a toothbrush in the mixture and rinse the inside of the ice maker.
Afterward, use a dry piece of cloth to wipe off the remaining water and dry the machine. You can also use a wet cloth to rub the inside of the ice maker if you’re doing light cleaning.
Step 5: Check the Water Filter of the Ice Machine
Now’s a good time to inspect the water filter. If it looks dirty or hasn’t been changed in a while, replace it. A clean water filter ensures that your ice is not only clear but also tastes fresh.
In general, water filters should be changed every time the machine is deep cleaned. Generally, a filter can be used for 6 months at best. So remember to replace your water filters regularly.
Step 6: Clean Your Ice Maker Water Tray or Reservoir
First of all, empty out the water reservoir and remove all the removable parts. Next, mix vinegar, detergent, or any cleaning agent with warm water to prepare a cleaning solution.
Pour this cleaning solution into the reservoir and slosh it around for some time to clean all the walls. Mineral buildup or sedimentation might make the reservoir walls slimy.
Here, you can use a washcloth to rub off such buildup and a toothbrush if necessary. Remove the drain cap to drain the water, and wash the tank with clean water to remove the cleaning agent. Lastly, wipe the reservoir with a cloth and let it dry.
Step 7: Dry the Interior Part of the Ice Maker
After the ice maker interior has been well washed, it’s time to dry off.
You can use a soft cloth to wipe off any moisture from the inside. Avoid using rough cloth, scrapers, or hard bristle brushes to clean the machine, as it may damage the plastic inside.
Leave the machine for a few minutes so the remaining water dries. Also, reattach any removed parts and check if they’re connected properly.
Step 8: Clean the Exterior of the Machine
You’re not done yet!
Now you have to clean the exterior of the ice maker as well. You can use the remaining cleaning agent to rinse the outside of the maker.
And use a damp washcloth to wipe the exterior of the ice maker. If there are any mineral deposits or residues, rub it with a toothbrush to clean it.
Wash off the cleaning detergent with a wet cloth and let it dry. Reattach all the parts removed during the clean-up process.
Step 9: Run an Ice Making Test
Turn your ice maker back on and run a few cycles to ensure everything is working properly. Discard the first couple of batches of ice, as they might contain traces of cleaning solution or vinegar.
Once you’re confident the machine is running smoothly, you’re all set!
Regular Maintenance Tips
Along with cleaning, any household appliance requires regular maintenance to remain in top condition.
Here are some ice maker maintenance tips:
- Arrange a deep cleaning of household appliances every 2-3 months.
- Replace any broken, damaged, or old removable part of the ice maker.
- Replace the ice maker water filter every 3 months.
- Clean out the water reservoir and switch the connecting pipes at least once a year.
- Keep the countertop clean and dry to avoid any accidents.
- After each use, allow the ice maker to rest for 10 minutes to avoid overheating.
Read More: How to Reset a Frigidaire Ice Maker?
The Final Word
And there you have it!
With the above-mentioned 9 steps, your Frigidaire ice maker will be clean and functioning like new.
Besides, regular maintenance ensures that your ice remains fresh and your machine runs smoothly. So, the next time you notice a change in your ice quality, make sure to give your ice maker the care it deserves.
Happy cleaning!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I clean my ice maker with vinegar?
Of course. Just mix vinegar with warm water and start cleaning the interior and exterior of your ice maker with a damp cloth. However, the ratio of vinegar to water should be 1:10, which means 1 part vinegar for 10 parts water.
What is the white gunk in my ice maker?
Calcium carbonate can sediment and solidify in ice makers, looking like white gunk or stones. This residue should be dug out using a solid spoon or cup. But, the area needs to be wiped clean with a damp cloth dipped in a cleaning agent. You can also use a toothbrush to remove the white substance.
Can I leave my Frigidaire ice maker on all the time?
Yes, you can leave your ice maker on at all hours, like a refrigerator. However, the water reservoir needs to be refilled if it is not connected to a water supply directly and the ice basket needs to be emptied to avoid overspilling. So it might be best to keep the ice maker on only when you’re awake.
