Quick answer

Set up your countertop ice maker by unpacking, cleaning the interior, filling the removable water tank, and running a priming cycle before making ice.

Why cleaning before first use matters

Manufacturing and shipping can leave dust or residue inside a new ice maker. Cleaning the interior and the removable water tank before first use keeps your first batches of ice fresh and safe.

Skipping the initial clean can also affect the machine's performance, as debris may clog small passages in the water system.

Trade-off: priming cycle vs. immediate ice

The first batch of ice is often small or irregular because the system needs to purge air and stabilize temperature. Running a priming cycle—letting the machine produce and discard the first batch—ensures clearer, more consistent ice afterward.

This uses a little extra water and time, but it prevents the disappointment of a half-sized first batch.

First-use setup steps

  1. Unpack and inspect: Remove all packaging and check the unit for shipping damage. Place the ice maker on a flat, level surface with at least 4 inches of clearance on all sides for airflow. Check that the ice scoop and any accessories are included before proceeding.
  2. Clean the interior and accessories: Wipe the interior, ice basket, and ice scoop with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Do not use abrasive cleaners that could scratch surfaces. Let all parts dry completely before reassembling.
  3. Fill the water tank: Remove the water tank and fill it with clean, cold drinking water up to the MAX line. Do not use hot water or fill past the maximum mark, as this can cause overflow during operation. Use filtered water if your tap water is hard; this reduces scale buildup.
  4. Run a priming cycle: Plug in the unit, press the ON button, and let the machine run for about 15–20 minutes. Discard the first batch of ice to purge any residual cleaning solution or loose particles. If the first batch is small or irregular, that's normal—the next batch will be fuller.
  5. Check ice quality and adjust: After the second or third batch, check the ice size and clarity. If ice is too small or cloudy, adjust the ice size setting if available, or clean the water tank to remove mineral buildup. Regular descaling every 1–2 months will keep ice production consistent.

Product facts