Having an ice maker in your home or business is incredibly convenient. With just the touch of a button, you have access to fresh ice for cooling drinks, making ice packs, preserving food, and more. However, like any appliance, your ice maker needs proper maintenance and care for optimal performance. A key component that is often overlooked is the water filtration system. This system removes impurities from the water before it is frozen into ice cubes. Over time, failure to properly maintain the ice maker water filtration system can lead to:
- Cloudy or smelly ice cubes
- Mineral buildup and clogging
- Scale accumulation
- Decreased ice production
- Poor taste
- Shortened appliance lifespan
Regular maintenance of your ice maker water filtration system is essential to prevent these problems.
Why Water Filtration is Important for Ice Makers
All ice makers require a water supply to function. But have you ever considered what exactly is in your tap water? Water contains dissolved minerals such as calcium, magnesium, silica and chlorine. Over time, the buildup of these contaminants can cause:
- Cloudy or white ice cubes – Minerals like calcium and magnesium get trapped in ice. As they accumulate, ice appears foggy.
- Smelly ice cubes – Chlorine and sulfur in water cause foul ice cube odors.
- Mineral scale buildup – Mineral deposits accumulate and block water flow, which reduces ice production.
- Internal corrosion – Minerals accelerate wear and tear of metal components, shortening appliance lifespan.
That’s why water filtration is so important. Water filters trap minerals and chemicals through a combination of mechanical filtration and adsorptive processes. This results in purer water and clearer ice cubes.
Furthermore, scale accumulation from poor water quality may damage the compact freezer units in ice makers. Replacing these parts can cost over $100-200.
Simply put, taking proper care of your ice maker’s water filtration system saves you money in the long run. Keeping it well-maintained results in better ice quality, fewer expensive repairs, and longer appliance lifespan.
How Ice Maker Water Filtration Systems Work
All refrigerators, freezers and ice makers that are connected to a water line utilize a water filtering system. These filtration systems improve both water taste and quality.
Here’s a breakdown of how water filtration systems work in ice makers:
Types of Water Filters
There are two main types of water filters used in ice makers:
- Inline external filters – As name implies, these filters are installed along the water line. Water flows through the filter before entering the ice maker.
- Internal built-in filters – These filters are integrated within the ice maker appliance itself. Water passes through the filter upon entering the unit.
Inline external filters are easier to access and replace. However, internal units take up less space.
Despite different configurations, both filter types work similarly to purify water.
Stages of Filtration
Most ice maker water filters utilize a multi-stage filtration system:
- Stage 1 – As water enters the filter, large sediment and particles are removed through a screen.
- Stage 2 – Water then passes through a bed of activated carbon that traps smaller contaminants and chemicals.
- Stage 3 – Dense porous media captures extremely tiny particles not filtered in earlier stages.
Some high-end filters also include a finishing polishing pad to remove any last traces of leftover contaminants.
With each phase, the water becomes increasingly more purified. By the final stage, clean, refreshing water is ready to produce crystal clear ice.
Signs You Need to Service Your Water Filter
Replacing water filters before they expire is crucial. Worn filters stop removing contaminants efficiently.
Here are signs it’s time to service the water filter:
- Ice cubes appear cloudy or white
- Ice cubes emit a foul or smelly odor
- Noticeably decreased ice cube output
- Water flow from the dispenser slows to a trickle
- Water taste is poor or unpleasant
- Unit makes unusual noises during ice maker mode
- Error codes appear related to water flow issues
Cloudy ice and decreased ice production are common indicators of high mineral concentrations from a clogged filter. Foul odors signify buildup of chlorine, sediments and microorganisms.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s definitely time to examine the filtration system. Replace the water filter if necessary.
How to Change Your Water Filter
When replacing your ice maker water filter, it’s important to follow proper installation procedures. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Locate and Remove the Filter
- Familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual to locate the filter.
- Shut off water supply line to appliance if possible.
- Twist the old filter counter-clockwise to unlock the housing.
- Gently pull it straight out.
Clean the Housing
- Rinse out the empty filter housing using a mild detergent if dirty.
- Flush with clean water and pat dry with a cloth.
- Remove any lint or debris left behind.
Install New Filter
- Check that the gaskets on new filter are properly sealed.
- Insert the new cartridge into the filter housing.
- Twist clockwise until snugly locked into place.
Flush the System
- Change any settings on the display panel to reset filter status.
- Turn on water supply and check for leaks.
- Dispense ~10 gallons of water to purge air bubbles until water runs clear.
Following this process ensures all tubes and channels are rinsed so you immediately get clean filtered water and ice.
How Often to Change Water Filter
To keep your ice maker performing optimally, you must replace the water filter at regular intervals. But how often exactly?
Replace every 6 months – This is the standard recommendation for most refrigerator water filters. Mark your calendar and change the filter twice a year.
However, filter replacement frequency depends on certain factors:
- Water Quality – If you have exceptionally hard water or rely on well water, you may need to replace the filter more often than 6 months. The higher the contaminant level, the faster it will clog.
- Ice Usage – Are you an avid entertainer, always filling ice buckets for parties? The more your ice maker runs, the quicker the filter needs replacement.
- Number of People – Larger households with more people naturally use more water and ice. More usage means replacing filters more frequently.
Get to know historical filter life in your own household’s context. If ice quality declines sooner than 6 months, try changing the filter more frequently.
Cleaning and Maintaining the Filtration System
In addition to replacing water filters, ongoing periodic maintenance helps preserve your ice maker. Take time to thoroughly clean all components of the water filtration system.
Follow this maintenance routine:
Every 6 months
- Sanitize and descale small parts like tubing, fasteners and fittings by soaking in a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution for 30 minutes. This helps remove mineral residue that causes scale buildup.
- Check valves, supply lines, drains for cracks and potential leaks. Make repairs as needed.
- Detach and clean the large housing unit that contains the water filter. Remove grime, mineral deposits and sediment using an all-purpose cleaner.
Every Year
- Flush out and sanitize the internal storage bin that holds ice cubes before they get dispensed. A bleach cleaning solution of 2 tablespoons bleach to 1 gallon water works well for sanitizing.
- Inspect any refrigerant lines for damage. Repair any leaks immediately before recharging with refrigerant. Call a technician for assistance if needed.
Being diligent about maintenance ensures your ice maker continues functioning smoothly for years on end.
Checking Water Quality
The ultimate test of your water filtration system is the quality of water it produces.
After servicing your ice maker’s filter, check that your ice cubes show improvement. Here’s what to look for in terms of water quality:
- Clarity – Ice should be crystal clear without any cloudy white appearance.
- Cleanliness – No dirt, particles or foreign matter should be visible in the ice.
- Taste – Water and ice cubes should taste clean and fresh without chemical smells.
- Purity – Ice melts into water without leaving any sediment or residue behind.
If your freshly filtered water meets all these benchmarks, then your ice machine filtration system is performing well. But if ice quality is still poor and mineral buildup persists, consider upgrading to a heavier-duty water filtration system.
Investing in the proper water purification equipment for your ice maker pays dividends through better ice quality and appliance longevity.
Troubleshooting Guide
Despite regular maintenance, you may encounter issues with your ice maker water filtration system.
Here are some common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
| Leakage near filter housing | Improper filter installation or housing crack | Remove filter, inspect housing for cracks, reinstall filter |
| Ice has bad taste/odor | Expired filter or contaminated ice bin | Replace filter & sanitize ice storage bin |
| Cloudy/white ice | High mineral concentration in water | Install water softening system or more powerful filter |
| Not making enough ice | Low water flow/pressure | Check supply valve, filters for clogging |
| Water flow reduced | Mineral scale buildup in valves/tubes | Descale machine using cleaning solution |
| Filter housing won’t open | Too tight or mineral deposits crusted on threads | Run under warm water while firmly twisting filter |
This covers typical issues you may experience. But don’t hesitate to call manufacturer support if needed, especially when leakages occur.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
The best way to avoid problems and keep your ice machine working efficiently is preventative maintenance.
Follow these tips:
- Install a pre-filter – Use an inline sediment filter before the ice maker to trap particles and scale
- Flush on a schedule – Every 6 months, flush the water system with store-bought cleaner or natural vinegar solution
- Wipe exterior – Periodically wipe down external surfaces and remove dust to facilitate airflow
- Check supply lines – Inspect water supply lines and valves for cracks
- Keep replacement filters – Have backup water filters on hand for timely replacements
- Monitor performance – Take note of any changes in ice quantity or quality
Performing preventative measures minimizes scale buildup that commonly reduces ice production. Noticing changes right when they start enables you to promptly replace parts and restore normal function.
Also Read: Whirlpool Ice Maker Not Making Enough Ice: Troubleshooting Guide
Wrapping Up
Maintaining your ice maker water filtration system doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming.
By periodically cleaning and replacing water filters, keeping up with preventative maintenance, and checking ice quality – your ice machine will produce delicious crystal-clear ice for years on end.
Invest a little time and effort upfront to properly care for your ice maker water filtration system. Doing so saves money, stress, and the burden of expensive appliance repairs down the road.