To winterize an ice maker, you must disconnect it from water and power, drain all water from the lines and reservoir, and thoroughly clean and dry the interior to prevent mold and freeze damage. This process protects your appliance whether it’s a portable countertop model or a built-in unit in an unheated garage or vacation home.
Winterizing an ice maker protects it from freezing water that can crack internal components. The key steps are: shut off water supply, drain the water line and reservoir, clean the unit, and leave the door open to dry. Portable units may need to be stored indoors; built-in units require blowing out the water line with compressed air.
- Label: Fact
- Shut Off Water: Turn off the water supply valve or disconnect the water line before draining.
- Drain Reservoir: Remove all water from the reservoir using a siphon or by tilting the unit.
- Clean Interior: Use a vinegar solution to clean and sanitize the ice maker, then dry thoroughly.
- Leave Door Open: Prop the door or lid open to prevent mold and allow airflow.
- Blow Out Lines: For built-in units, use compressed air to clear water from the supply line.
Step 1: Disconnect Water and Power
Begin by unplugging the ice maker from the electrical outlet. For built-in units, locate the water supply valve (usually under the sink or behind the appliance) and turn it clockwise to shut off the water. For portable models, simply disconnect the quick-connect water line if attached. If the ice maker is connected to a reverse osmosis system, shut off that valve as well.
Allow the ice maker to sit for a few hours so any remaining ice in the bin can melt. This prevents water from refreezing and causing clogs during the draining process.
Step 2: Drain All Water from the System
For portable ice makers, remove the drain plug at the bottom of the reservoir (if equipped) and tilt the unit to empty all water. Use a turkey baster or small siphon pump to remove water from the reservoir if it’s not easily tipped. For built-in units, disconnect the water supply line at the back of the ice maker and allow any water in the line to drain into a shallow pan. Then use a wet/dry vacuum or compressed air to blow out the remaining water from the line and the ice maker’s internal water valve.
If your ice maker has a water filter, remove it and discard it (or store it in a sealed plastic bag if it’s reusable). Water trapped in the filter housing can freeze and crack the housing.
Step 3: Clean and Sanitize the Interior
Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts warm water (or use a manufacturer-recommended cleaner like Nu-Calgon Nickle-Safe). Wipe down all interior surfaces: the ice bin, reservoir, evaporator plates, and any removable parts. Use a soft cloth or sponge; avoid abrasive pads that can scratch plastic. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a microfiber towel.
For stubborn mineral deposits, soak removable parts in the vinegar solution for 30 minutes before scrubbing. This step prevents mold and mildew during storage.
Step 4: Dry Completely and Leave the Door Open
After cleaning, use a dry towel to remove as much moisture as possible. Then leave the ice maker’s door or lid open for 24–48 hours to air dry completely. Place a small bowl of silica gel or baking soda inside to absorb residual humidity. Do not skip this step; trapped moisture leads to mold and foul odors when you restart the unit.
For portable units, if you plan to store them in an unheated space, wrap the ice maker in a breathable cover (like a moving blanket) to protect against dust while allowing airflow.
Step 5: Store in a Freeze-Free Location
Ideally, store the ice maker indoors where temperatures remain above freezing. If it must stay in a garage or shed, ensure the space is insulated or heated to at least 40°F (4°C). Even drained ice makers can suffer damage if residual moisture freezes and expands. For built-in units that cannot be moved, consider using a heated appliance blanket or a small space heater (with proper clearance) to keep the area above freezing.
If you have a portable ice maker with a compressor, store it upright to prevent oil from leaking into the refrigerant lines. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific storage orientation.
Pro Tips
- Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out water from the drain line of built-in ice makers; it’s faster than gravity draining and removes hidden pockets.
- If your ice maker has a self-cleaning cycle, run it with the vinegar solution before draining to loosen mineral scale.
- Place a note on the ice maker or tape the power cord to remind yourself that it’s winterized and not to turn it on without water.
- For portable units, remove the ice scoop and store it separately to avoid it getting lost or damaged.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to shut off the water supply before disconnecting lines, causing water to spill everywhere.
- Leaving the door closed during storage, which traps moisture and leads to mold growth.
- Not blowing out the water line with compressed air, leaving water that freezes and cracks the valve or tubing.
- Storing the ice maker in a location that drops below freezing, even if drained, because residual moisture can still freeze.
FAQ
Do I need to winterize my ice maker if it stays in a heated home?
No, winterizing is only necessary if the ice maker will be exposed to freezing temperatures, such as in an unheated garage, cabin, or during a power outage in cold weather. In a climate-controlled home, simply clean it if not used for extended periods.
Can I use antifreeze in my ice maker to prevent freezing?
No, never use automotive or RV antifreeze in an ice maker. These are toxic and can contaminate the ice. The only safe method is to drain all water and keep the unit dry.
How do I restart my ice maker after winter storage?
Reconnect the water supply, plug in the unit, and run a cleaning cycle with fresh water. Discard the first batch of ice to flush out any residual vinegar or debris. Check for leaks before regular use.
The Bottom Line
Winterizing your ice maker is a simple but crucial task to avoid costly repairs. By following these steps—disconnecting, draining, cleaning, drying, and storing properly—you ensure your appliance remains in top condition for the next season. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions, as some units have unique drain plugs or cleaning cycles that differ from the general process.
