Danby Contaminated Water Path / Biofilm Buildup

Ice from the Danby ice maker has a bad taste or odor.

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Possible Causes

Dirty water reservoir, Mold or algae in internal tubing, Stale water left in unit, Use of unfiltered tap water with strong odor

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the unit before cleaning. Do not use harsh chemicals that are not food‑safe.

Steps to improve ice taste:

  • Empty and clean reservoir: Discard all water and ice. Wash the reservoir with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly.
  • Run a cleaning cycle: Fill the reservoir with a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water or a Danby‑approved ice maker cleaner. Run a full cleaning cycle if your model supports it, or several ice cycles, discarding all ice produced.
  • Rinse system: Refill with fresh water and run multiple cycles, discarding the ice, until any vinegar smell is gone.
  • Use filtered water: For plumbed‑in models, replace or install a water filter. For countertop units, use filtered or bottled water.
  • Regular maintenance: Clean the unit every 1–3 months depending on usage and water hardness.
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Repair Difficulty

Very Easy 1/5
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