Cleaning the Grille and Condenser on a U-Line Ice Maker

An ice maker makes ice by removing heat, and that heat has to go somewhere. On an undercounter unit it leaves through a front grille and a coil called the condenser. When lint, pet hair, and cooking grease coat that coil, the unit cannot shed heat, and ice production drops.

Signs the coil is dirty

• Ice is smaller or slower than it used to be.
• The cabinet around the unit feels warm.
• The unit runs almost all the time.
• The ice looks softer than normal.

How to clean it

1. Turn the unit off at its control and unplug it if you can reach the plug safely.
2. Remove the front grille as shown in the owner manual.
3. Use a soft brush and a vacuum with a brush attachment to lift dust from the coil and the grille openings. Brush gently along the fins, not across them.
4. Wipe the grille with a damp cloth and let it dry before replacing it.
5. Restore power and watch that the fan spins freely.

What not to do

• Do not use a pressure washer or compressed air at close range. Fins bend easily.
• Do not spray cleaner onto the coil or into the electrical area.
• Do not block the grille with a decorative panel that is not designed for ventilation.

How often in Houston

Because kitchens here run air conditioning year round and many homes have pets, we suggest every three to six months. Homes near construction or with an open garage door may need it more often.

If the coil is bent, the fan is noisy, or ice output stays low after cleaning, let us take a look. Our ice maker repair service covers the entire Houston area, with a written price up front and a 30-day workmanship warranty.