hOmeLabs
Microbial Contamination of Water System
Visible mold, slime, or discoloration inside the ice maker
Advertisements
Possible Causes
Infrequent cleaning, Warm storage conditions, Standing water in reservoir, Poor ventilation
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Unplug the unit. Wear gloves and avoid inhaling mold spores. Do not use bleach unless manufacturer-approved.
Deep cleaning:
- Disassemble removable parts: Remove ice basket, scoop, reservoir cover, and any removable filters. Wash with hot soapy water and rinse.
- Sanitize interior: Wipe all accessible interior surfaces with a 1:1 vinegar-water solution or a food-safe sanitizer. Use a soft brush for corners and seams.
- Flush system: Run multiple cleaning cycles with sanitizer solution, followed by several cycles with clean water, discarding all ice produced during cleaning.
- Dry thoroughly: Leave the lid open and allow the unit to air dry completely before reuse or storage.
If mold returns quickly, consider replacing internal hoses and the reservoir, and ensure the unit is not stored with water inside.
Advertisements
Repair Difficulty
Easy
2/5
Advertisements