Nugget ice makers keep water moving through tubes and a freezing cylinder at room temperature, so they need regular cleaning. Here's a routine that works for most machines. Always follow your own manual for cleaning solutions and cycle steps.
Every week
- Empty and wash the ice bin and scoop with warm, soapy water.
- Drain old water from the reservoir and side tank and refill with fresh water.
- Wipe the outside and the drip tray.
Every few weeks: descale
- Unplug the machine and drain all the water.
- Mix the descaling solution your manual specifies. GE sells an Opal cleaning kit; others list a vinegar or citric acid mix.
- Run the machine's cleaning or descale cycle. GoveeLife has a 10-minute quick clean and a 30-minute descale; GE's Opal has a clean cycle.
- Drain, then run one or two cycles with fresh water to rinse.
- Throw out the first batch of ice afterward.
How often?
GE recommends descaling the Opal about every four weeks, depending on water hardness. Hard water means more often; filtered or RO water means less. See the best water for an ice maker.
Signs it needs cleaning
- Slower ice production or smaller nuggets
- Cloudy, off-tasting or smelly ice
- White crust on visible parts
- Pink or black film in the reservoir
Questions
Can I use bleach?
Only if your manual says so. Most specify a descaler, vinegar or citric acid.
Should I leave water in it when not in use?
No. Drain it if you won't use it for a few days.
