If you own a GE Opal ice maker, you know the joy of having chewable, nugget ice at your fingertips. But to keep those delicious, crystal-clear nuggets flowing, a little maintenance is key. Over time, mineral deposits and other buildup can cloud your ice and affect the machine’s performance. Fortunately, a thorough cleaning is a straightforward process that will have your ice maker running like new. This step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly what to do.

First, unplug the unit and empty it. Discard any remaining ice in the bin and remove the water filter, if you have one. Next, drain all the water from the reservoir by unplugging the drain plugs on the back of the machine. It’s a good idea to tilt the unit slightly to ensure all the water is out. Once drained, replace the plugs securely. Now, prepare your cleaning solution. GE recommends a specific Opal cleaning solution, but you can also use a mixture of five parts water to one part white vinegar. This solution is great for breaking down mineral scale. Pour this mixture into the reservoir, filling it to the recommended line.

With the solution in place, plug the machine back in. Press and hold the “cleaning GE opal ice maker” button for three seconds to start the cleaning cycle. The machine will begin its automated process, circulating the solution through its system. This cycle can take some time, so be patient. Once the cycle is complete, the machine will indicate it’s finished. Unplug the unit again and drain the cleaning solution completely. You might notice some residue coming out with the solution, which is a good sign that the cleaning is working. To rinse away any remaining vinegar or cleaning solution residue, fill the reservoir with fresh, clean water. Plug it back in and press the “Clean” button again to run a rinse cycle. Repeat this rinse process two to three times to ensure all traces of the cleaning solution are gone.

Finally, dry the interior with a soft cloth and let the unit air dry for a bit before replacing the ice bin and filling it with fresh water. Plug it in, and your GE Opal is ready to start making clear, great-tasting ice again. A regular cleaning schedule, perhaps once a month or every other week, depending on your water hardness, will ensure you always have a steady supply of perfect nugget ice.