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Product Help | KitchenAid

Preparing the Ice Maker for Vacation or Moving

How to Prepare the KitchenAid Ice Maker for Vacation or Moving

Getting ready for a vacation or moving to a new home can be thrilling, but careful attention to your appliances, especially your freestanding ice maker, is needed. Proper preparation ensures your ice maker stays in top condition and avoids any issues during your absence. Whether you're disconnecting for a short trip or relocating, understanding the necessary steps is key. This guide will walk you through the preparations needed to protect your ice maker, keeping it ready for whatever journey lies ahead. Let's explore how to prepare the freestanding ice maker for vacation or moving.

Steps for Vacation Preparation

Ensuring your freestanding ice maker is ready for a vacation or an extended period of time involves only a couple of steps. 

  1. Turn off the water and power supply to the ice maker.
  2. Either remove the ice from the bin or prop the door open and allow all the ice to melt. 
  3. Next, thoroughly clean the ice maker's interior and exterior.

Steps for Moving

NOTE: Follow all the safety and guidelines outlined in the Installation Instructions and Owner's Manual. 

  1. Unplug the ice maker or disconnect power.
  2. Remove all ice from the storage bin.
  3. Shut off the water supply.
  4. Remove the 2 screws in the lower access panel and the 2 screws from the base grille area of the front panel support.
  5. Pull forward to remove the lower access panel.
Pull forward to remove the lower access panel.
  1. Disconnect the inlet and outlet lines to the water valve. Allow these lines to drain and then reconnect to the valve.
  2. Replace the lower access panel and screws.
  3. Drain water from the water pan by removing the drain cap.
NOTE: If the room temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), water must be removed from the drain line.
 

For Ice Makers with a Drain Pump Installed:

  1. Plug in the ice maker or reconnect the power.
  2. Turn ice maker off and remove all remaining ice from ice bin.
  1. Unplug ice maker or disconnect power.
  2. Before using it again, clean the ice maker and storage bin.
  3. Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet.
NOTE: All components of the ice maker are permanently lubricated at the factory. They should not require any additional oiling throughout the normal life of the machine.

If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.