Press and hold the clean button until the light blinks, then wait for the cycle to finish

Most Frigidaire ice makers have a clean button (sometimes labeled "Clean" or shown as a small button on the front or side of the unit) that runs an automatic cleaning cycle. This cycle flushes water through the ice maker's internal lines to remove mineral buildup and debris. You do not need to take the unit apart or use special chemicals — the button triggers a built-in process that your ice maker was designed to do.

The exact steps depend on your model, but the basic process is the same: locate the button, press and hold it for three to five seconds until you see a light blink or hear a beep, then step back and let the machine run. The cycle usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, water will flow through the system and drain out the back or bottom of the unit. Do not open the ice maker door or interrupt the cycle.

After the cycle ends, the ice maker will resume normal operation. Your next batch of ice may look slightly cloudy or taste faintly of water — this is normal and clears after one or two batches. If you do not see a clean button on your unit, check your owner's manual, as some older or simpler Frigidaire models do not have this feature.

Key Takeaways

  • The clean button runs an automatic flush cycle that clears mineral deposits and debris from inside the ice maker without requiring you to disassemble anything.
  • Press and hold the button until a light blinks or you hear a beep, then leave the machine alone for 30 minutes to an hour while the cycle runs.
  • Water will drain out during the cycle, so make sure the drain line at the back of your refrigerator is clear and positioned over a sink or drain pan.
  • Run the clean cycle every six months, or more often if you live in an area with hard water or notice ice that tastes stale or smells off.
  • If your model does not have a clean button, you can still flush the system by turning off the ice maker for a few hours, then turning it back on to force a reset.

Where to find the clean button on your Frigidaire

The clean button is usually located on the front face of the ice maker, near the bottom or to the side of the dispensing area. On some models it sits behind a small panel or cover that you may need to slide or pop off. On others, it is a recessed button that requires a gentle push with your finger or a pen tip.

If you cannot find it, look for any button labeled "Clean," "Flush," or "Cycle" on the visible parts of the ice maker. Some Frigidaire models also have a control panel inside the freezer compartment — check there if the front of the ice maker has no buttons. Your owner's manual will show the exact location for your specific model number. If you no longer have the manual, you can search for it online using your refrigerator's model number, which is usually printed on a sticker inside the fridge or freezer.

What happens during the clean cycle

When you press the clean button, the ice maker's water valve opens and pressurized water flows through the internal lines and nozzles that dispense water and make ice. This flow dislodges mineral crystals (usually calcium and magnesium from hard water) and any small particles that have collected inside. The water then drains out through the drain line at the back of the refrigerator.

The cycle is automatic and does not require you to add anything or monitor progress. You may hear water running or a slight humming sound as the pump works. Some models display a countdown timer or a blinking light to show the cycle is active. Once the cycle ends, the light will stop blinking or turn off, and the ice maker will return to normal mode.

How often to run the clean cycle

Run the clean cycle every six months as routine maintenance. If you live in an area with hard water (water with high mineral content), run it every three months instead. You can also run it more often if you notice any of these signs: ice that tastes stale or metallic, ice that smells off, water that comes out cloudy, or a noticeable slowdown in ice production.

Hard water is common in many parts of the country, and mineral buildup is the most frequent cause of ice maker problems. Regular cleaning prevents clogs and keeps the ice tasting fresh. If you are unsure whether your water is hard, you can buy an inexpensive test strip at a hardware store, or contact your local water utility — many provide free water quality reports.

Preparing your refrigerator before you start the cycle

Before pressing the clean button, make sure the drain line at the back of your refrigerator is clear and positioned correctly. This line carries water out of the fridge during the clean cycle. If it is kinked, clogged, or hanging loose, water may back up inside the unit or spill onto your floor.

Check that the drain line is not pinched between the refrigerator and the wall or cabinet. If it looks kinked, gently straighten it. You can also place a shallow pan or towel under the drain outlet at the back of the fridge to catch any water that drips during or after the cycle. This is especially helpful if your refrigerator sits on carpet or in a tight space where a small spill could cause damage.

Troubleshooting if the clean cycle does not start

If you press the clean button and nothing happens, first check that your refrigerator is plugged in and powered on. Look for any lights or displays on the ice maker or control panel — if you see none, the unit may not have power. Try unplugging the refrigerator for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in to reset the system.

If the button still does not work, the button itself may be stuck or broken. Try pressing it firmly several times, or use a pen tip to press a recessed button. If the ice maker is very old or the button feels loose or unresponsive, the button mechanism may need replacement — this is a task for a repair technician. You can still use the ice maker normally; the clean cycle is a convenience feature, not a requirement for the unit to work.

If water does not drain out during the cycle, the drain line is likely clogged. Locate the drain line at the back of the refrigerator and check for kinks or blockages. You can try flushing it with warm water from a pitcher or using a plumbing snake to clear a clog. If the line is frozen (which can happen in very cold freezers), let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours, then try the cycle again.

When to call a repair technician

If the clean cycle runs but the ice maker stops making ice afterward, or if water leaks inside the refrigerator during the cycle, contact a repair technician. These signs suggest a problem with the water valve, pump, or internal lines that requires professional diagnosis. Do not attempt to disassemble the ice maker yourself, as this can damage the unit or void any remaining warranty.

Similarly, if the clean button does not work and you have confirmed the refrigerator has power, a technician can test the button and the control board to determine whether either needs replacement. Repair costs vary, but a service call typically runs between $100 and $200 before parts. If your refrigerator is still under warranty, contact Frigidaire customer service first — they may cover the repair at no cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vinegar or a cleaning solution in the clean cycle?

No. The clean cycle uses only water from your refrigerator's supply line. Do not pour vinegar, bleach, or any other liquid into the ice maker or water dispenser — this can damage the internal components and contaminate your water supply. The pressurized water alone is designed to flush out mineral buildup.

Why does my ice taste bad even after I run the clean cycle?

If ice still tastes off after cleaning, the problem may be your water supply, not the ice maker. Check whether your refrigerator's water filter is old — filters should be replaced every six months. A clogged or expired filter can cause stale-tasting water and ice. You can also try running the clean cycle a second time, or waiting a few hours and making a fresh batch of ice, as the first batch after cleaning sometimes tastes slightly off.

What if my Frigidaire ice maker does not have a clean button?

Older or basic Frigidaire models may not have a dedicated clean button. You can still flush the system by turning off the ice maker (usually via a switch or lever inside the freezer) for two to three hours, then turning it back on. This forces the system to reset and can help clear minor buildup. For deeper cleaning, contact a repair technician or consult your owner's manual for model-specific instructions.

Is the clean cycle the same as defrosting the ice maker?

No. The clean cycle flushes water through the lines to remove minerals and debris. Defrosting is a separate process that thaws ice buildup on the evaporator coils inside the freezer. Most Frigidaire refrigerators defrost automatically on a timer. If you suspect a defrost problem (ice buildup visible on the back wall of the freezer), that is a different issue and may require a technician.

How long does the clean cycle take?

Most clean cycles take 30 minutes to one hour from start to finish. The exact time depends on your model and how much mineral buildup is present. During this time, do not open the ice maker door or interrupt the cycle. Once the light stops blinking or you hear a final beep, the cycle is complete and the ice maker will resume normal operation.