Clean your Opal 2.0 by running the built-in cleaning cycle, then manually scrubbing the water tank and ice basket
The Opal 2.0 ice maker has two cleaning steps: an automatic cycle that flushes the internal system, and a manual wash of the removable parts. The automatic cleaning takes about 30 minutes and uses a cleaning solution that comes with the machine. After that cycle finishes, you remove the side water tank and ice basket to scrub them by hand in your sink. Most people do this once a month, though you may need to clean more often if your water is hard or your ice maker sits in a dusty kitchen.
The side tank is where mineral buildup happens fastest because water sits there between uses. If you skip cleaning the tank, minerals can clog the water line and the ice maker will stop dispensing water or make cloudy ice. The good news is the whole process takes less than an hour once you know the steps.
Key Takeaways
- Run the cleaning cycle from the Opal 2.0 menu by pressing the menu button, scrolling to "Cleaning," and selecting "Start Cleaning Cycle" — this takes about 30 minutes and uses the cleaning solution packet included with your machine.
- Remove the side water tank and ice basket after the cycle ends and wash both parts by hand with warm soapy water and a soft brush or sponge.
- The water tank should be cleaned monthly or whenever you notice mineral deposits on the inside walls or a slow water flow.
- Never put the tank or basket in the dishwasher, as high heat can warp the plastic and damage the seals.
- If the cleaning cycle fails or the machine shows an error code, check that the tank is seated correctly and the water line is not kinked.
How to run the automatic cleaning cycle
Start by making sure the ice basket is empty and the side water tank is full. Press the menu button on the front of the machine — it is usually marked with three horizontal lines. Scroll down using the arrow buttons until you see "Cleaning" or "Maintenance." Select it, then choose "Start Cleaning Cycle." The machine will ask you to confirm; press yes or the checkmark button.
The cycle will run for about 30 minutes. During this time, the machine pumps cleaning solution through the internal water lines and ice-making chamber. You will hear water moving inside and may see some water drain into the collection tray below. Do not open the door or interrupt the cycle. When it finishes, the screen will show a message like "Cleaning Complete" or return to the home screen.
If you do not have the cleaning solution packet that came with your machine, you can order Opal cleaning solution from the manufacturer or use a food-safe descaling solution made for ice makers. Do not use vinegar or bleach, as these can damage the internal seals and leave a taste in your ice.
Remove and wash the water tank
After the cleaning cycle ends, locate the side water tank on the right or left side of the machine (depending on your model). Press the release button or lever — usually a small button near the top of the tank — and pull the tank straight out toward you. Set it on your counter.
Fill your sink with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Submerge the tank and use a soft brush, sponge, or cloth to scrub the inside walls, paying special attention to the bottom corners where mineral deposits collect. If you see white or gray crusty buildup, scrub gently in circles until it comes loose. Rinse the tank thoroughly under running water until no soap remains and the water runs clear.
Inspect the rubber seal or gasket around the tank opening. If it looks cracked, dried out, or discolored, it may need to be replaced — contact the manufacturer for a replacement seal. Dry the tank with a clean cloth before reinserting it into the machine.
Clean the ice basket and collection tray
The ice basket sits inside the machine and catches the ice cubes as they fall. To remove it, open the front door and look for a handle or tab on the basket. Pull it straight out toward you. Empty any remaining ice into your sink or trash. Wash the basket in warm soapy water with a soft brush, rinse well, and dry it completely.
While the basket is out, wipe down the collection tray at the bottom of the machine with a damp cloth. This tray catches water that drains during cleaning cycles and normal operation. If water has pooled there, empty it by tilting the tray or using a small cup to scoop it out. Wipe the tray dry and replace the ice basket.
Reinsert the tank and run a test cycle
Slide the water tank back into its slot until you hear or feel it click into place. Make sure it is seated all the way — if it is not fully inserted, the machine may not recognize it and will show an error. Fill the tank with fresh water through the opening at the top.
Press the menu button and select "Ice Making" or the main ice-making mode. The machine should start making ice within a few seconds. Listen for the sound of water flowing and watch for ice to begin forming in the basket. If the machine does not start or shows an error code, remove the tank again, check that the rubber seal is clean and properly seated, and reinsert it.
What to do if mineral buildup is heavy
If the cleaning cycle alone does not remove all the white or gray deposits from the water tank, you can soak the tank in a descaling solution. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a large bowl or bucket, submerge the tank, and let it sit for 30 minutes to one hour. Then scrub with a soft brush and rinse very thoroughly — any vinegar left behind will affect the taste of your ice and water.
Alternatively, use a commercial ice maker descaling solution following the product instructions. These are gentler on plastic seals than vinegar and rinse away more completely. After soaking, always run the automatic cleaning cycle again to flush any remaining solution from the internal lines.
If buildup returns very quickly — within two weeks — your water supply may be very hard. Consider using filtered or distilled water in the tank, or running the cleaning cycle every two weeks instead of monthly.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not put the water tank or ice basket in the dishwasher. The high heat can warp the plastic and damage the rubber seals, causing leaks. Hand washing with warm water and a soft cloth is always the right choice.
Do not skip the automatic cleaning cycle and only wash the removable parts. The cycle cleans the internal water lines and ice-making chamber, which you cannot reach by hand. Skipping it allows mineral buildup inside the machine, which eventually clogs the water pump.
Do not use the machine when ready after the cleaning cycle if you are sensitive to the taste of cleaning solution. Run one or two cycles of ice-making and discard the ice before using the machine for drinking water. This flushes any remaining solution from the lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Opal 2.0?
Run the automatic cleaning cycle once a month for normal use. If your water is hard or you notice mineral deposits building up faster, clean every two weeks. If you use filtered or distilled water, you may be able to stretch it to every six weeks.
What if the cleaning cycle shows an error or will not start?
Check that the water tank is full and seated all the way into the machine. Make sure the water line connected to the back of the machine is not kinked or pinched. If the error persists, power off the machine for 30 seconds, then power it back on and try again.
Can I use vinegar to clean the Opal 2.0?
You can soak the removable water tank in a vinegar-and-water solution to dissolve mineral deposits, but rinse it very thoroughly afterward. Never pour vinegar into the machine itself or run it through the cleaning cycle, as it can damage internal seals and leave a strong taste in your ice.
Why is my ice cloudy even after cleaning?
Cloudy ice usually means minerals or air bubbles are trapped in the ice. Run the cleaning cycle, then discard the first few batches of ice the machine makes. If cloudiness continues, your water supply may be very hard — try using filtered or distilled water in the tank.
Is the water tank removable for travel?
Yes, the side tank is designed to be removed for cleaning and refilling. You can also remove it if you want to connect the machine to a water line instead of using the tank, though this requires a separate water line kit sold by the manufacturer.