Starting the Clean Cycle on Your Frigidaire Ice Maker
To put your Frigidaire ice maker in clean mode, locate the Clean button on the front of the unit or inside the ice bucket area, then press and hold it for three to five seconds until you see a light blink or hear a beep. The exact location and set up method depend on your specific Frigidaire model—some have a dedicated button, while others require you to press a combination of buttons or access the control panel through the ice bucket door.
Once clean mode is activated, the ice maker will run a cleaning cycle that typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, the machine pumps cleaning solution through its internal water lines and dispenser to remove mineral buildup and bacteria. You should not use the ice maker or dispenser during this cycle—the water coming out will contain cleaning solution and is not safe to drink.
Key Takeaways
- The Clean button is usually located on the front panel or accessible through the ice bucket door, and you set up it by pressing and holding for three to five seconds.
- Clean mode runs automatically for 30 to 45 minutes and flushes cleaning solution through the water lines and dispenser.
- Do not use the ice maker or water dispenser while the cleaning cycle is running, as the water contains cleaning solution.
- After the cycle finishes, run fresh water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to rinse out any remaining cleaning solution before using ice or water again.
- Your Frigidaire model number determines the exact button location and set up steps, so check your manual if the front panel has no visible Clean button.
Locating the Clean Button on Common Frigidaire Models
On most Frigidaire refrigerators with built-in ice makers, the Clean button sits on the front control panel near the water and ice dispensers. Look for a button labeled "Clean," "Cleaning," or sometimes just a symbol that looks like a water droplet or cycle icon. The button is usually small and may be recessed slightly into the panel to prevent accidental set up.
If you cannot find a button on the front panel, open the ice bucket door inside the freezer. Some Frigidaire models hide the Clean button on the side of the ice maker housing itself, or on a control panel mounted inside the bucket area. Check the area where the ice bucket slides in and out, as this is a common location for secondary controls.
If your model still does not have a visible Clean button, consult your owner's manual or the model number plate on the back of your refrigerator. You can search for your manual online using the model number—Frigidaire's website and appliance manual databases make them freely available. The manual will show you exactly where the control is and how to set up it for your specific unit.
What Happens During the Clean Cycle
When you set up clean mode, the ice maker's pump begins circulating a cleaning solution through the water supply lines, the ice maker mechanism, and the water dispenser. This solution breaks down mineral deposits (limescale) that build up over time from tap water, and it also sanitizes the internal surfaces where bacteria can grow. The entire process is automated—you do not need to do anything except wait for it to finish.
You will notice water and cleaning solution flowing out of the water dispenser during the cycle. This is normal. Some models display a countdown timer or a blinking light to show the cycle is running. The cycle typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, though some newer Frigidaire models may run longer or shorter depending on their design. Do not interrupt the cycle by pressing buttons or opening the ice bucket door—let it run to completion.
Rinsing the System After Cleaning
Once the clean cycle finishes, the machine will stop automatically and the light or indicator will turn off. At this point, you need to flush out the cleaning solution before using the ice maker or water dispenser again. Hold a cup under the water dispenser and run water for 30 to 60 seconds, discarding the first batch. This rinses the lines and removes any remaining cleaning solution.
After rinsing, make a test batch of ice and discard it. Run the ice maker through one full cycle (usually 6 to 24 hours depending on your model) and throw away the first bucket of ice produced. This ensures any trace cleaning solution is completely gone. Only after this test batch should you use the ice and water normally.
How Often to Run Clean Mode
Frigidaire recommends running the clean cycle every 30 days if you live in an area with hard water, or every 60 days if your water is soft. Hard water contains more minerals and causes faster buildup, so you may need to clean more frequently. If you notice the ice tastes off, the dispenser flows slowly, or ice cubes look cloudy or discolored, those are signs that cleaning is overdue.
Some Frigidaire models have an automatic reminder that alerts you when cleaning is due. If your refrigerator has this feature, a light will blink or a message will appear on the display panel. You can usually reset this reminder after you run the clean cycle, though the exact steps vary by model—check your manual for the reset procedure.
Troubleshooting Clean Mode Problems
If pressing the Clean button does not start the cycle, first check that the ice maker itself is turned on. Many Frigidaire models have a separate power switch or lever for the ice maker, usually located inside the freezer near the ice bucket. If the ice maker is off, the clean cycle will not run. Turn it on and try the Clean button again.
If the clean cycle starts but stops partway through, the water supply may be blocked. Check that the water line running to your refrigerator is not kinked or frozen, and make sure the water shutoff valve under your sink is fully open. A blocked water line will cause the pump to stop automatically as a safety feature. Once you clear the blockage, you can restart the clean cycle.
If you see no water coming out of the dispenser during the cycle, the dispenser nozzle itself may be clogged. Unplug the refrigerator, remove the ice bucket, and look at the dispenser opening. You can gently clear a small clog with a thin pipe cleaner or straightened paperclip—do not use anything sharp that could damage the nozzle. Plug the refrigerator back in and try the clean cycle again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the ice maker while it is in clean mode?
No. The water flowing through the system during clean mode contains cleaning solution, which is not safe to drink or use in food. Wait for the cycle to finish completely, then rinse the system with fresh water for 30 to 60 seconds before using the ice maker or dispenser again.
What if I do not know my Frigidaire model number?
The model number is printed on a label attached to the back wall of your refrigerator, usually near the bottom. You can also find it inside the refrigerator on a label on the side wall or ceiling. Once you have the number, search for your model on Frigidaire's website or appliance manual databases to read the owner's manual with specific instructions for your unit.
Do I need to buy special cleaning solution for the clean cycle?
No. Frigidaire ice makers use a built-in cleaning solution that is already in the system. You do not need to add anything or purchase a separate product. The machine dispenses its own cleaning solution when you set up clean mode.
How long does the clean cycle take?
Most Frigidaire clean cycles run for 30 to 45 minutes. Some newer models may take slightly longer or shorter depending on their design. Check your owner's manual for the exact timing for your specific model. The cycle runs automatically once started, so you can leave the refrigerator alone while it finishes.
What should I do if the clean cycle finishes but the ice still tastes bad?
Run the clean cycle again after a few days. If the taste does not improve after a second cleaning, the problem may be your water source rather than the ice maker. Try replacing the refrigerator's water filter if it has one, or have your tap water tested for contaminants. A clogged water line can also cause taste issues—check that the line is not kinked or frozen.