Ice Makers are one of the most important kitchen appliances that create ice cubes to keep your drinks cool. However, like many other kitchen appliances that need regular maintenance, you may need refrigerator ice maker repair as well. Otherwise, not only your ice cubes will stink but the machine may clog as well. Therefore, let’s take a look into how you can unclog your ice maker by following some simple tips.

Unplug The Ice Maker

The first step of the process is preparing for the unclogging process. Unplug the ice maker, wear safety gloves and grab some cleaning agents along with a cleaning cloth and a brush. Even though the cleaning process should not take long, you will need to scrub down every inch of the unit to unclog the machine.

Depending on the model, it might have an on/off switch but it is better to unplug it from the main switch.

Clean Your Ice Cube Bin

Next, you need to clean your ice cube bin. Then again, depending on the model, the ice cube maker bin might pull out like a tray or it might need to be lifted before you can remove it. Throw away the ice in the garbage and if there is anything else that you can easily remove at this point, you should do it now. But make sure that you do not touch the hardware of the unit.

Keep in mind that the plastic parts you remove should only be washed by hand. Some people tend to use the dishwasher, which is not recommended. Use warm water, a cleaning agent, and a brush to clean the tray. Once you are done washing, place the parts under the fan to dry for a bit.

Remove Ice

If your ice maker is clogged, chances are that it will have some ice frozen inside. Do not use a sharp object to remove the ice instead use warm water to melt away the ice. Additionally, you can also use an ice pick to remove the ice but make sure that you do not damage the unit.

Once you are done removing the ice, use warm soapy water or a cleaning agent with a washcloth to clean and wipe down the exterior of the ice maker. For relatively hard-to-reach areas, you can use a toothbrush. Now that you are done removing the ice and cleaning the exterior of the unit, use a dry cloth to wipe the residue. Make sure that the machine is dry before you reassemble it.

Check Your Filter

The majority of people are not aware of the fact that their ice maker comes with a water filter. If the filter gets clogged, it won’t allow water to pass through. As a result, the appliance’s overall performance will diminish. At the same time, if you ignore cleaning or replacing the filter, chances are that your ice cubes will not only stink but also taste disgusting. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation regarding changing the water filter. Generally, water filters should be changed every six months.

Why Is Annual Maintenance For My Ice Maker Important?

Almost every kitchen appliance in your kitchen requires regular or annual maintenance. Machines that are used on a regular basis such as cooking stoves, dishwashers, and ice makers deal with leftover food items, debris, and other potentially clogging items. This makes it important for them to be regularly maintained.

Furthermore, annual maintenance also helps prolong the lifespan of your ice maker. If you are not able to do it on your own, you should hire an expert who will thoroughly clean the machine and inspect it for potential repairs or replacements. As a result, you will be able to fix the problem before it turns into an expensive one.

Even though annual maintenance is done once every year, that primarily depends on the usage. If you are using the machine on a regular basis, you might need to perform maintenance twice a year. And plus, if you live in a relatively dusty area, your machine will need regular cleaning in the meantime as well.

Final Word

Concluding, ice makers do get clogged often but there is no need to panic. Follow the tips mentioned above to unclog your ice maker in a few minutes. And remember, to prevent ice maker from clogging, you should regularly clean your machine and opt for annual maintenance by an experienced appliance repair Northern VA technician as well.