We hear this all the time, “how come my ice smell?”. If you refrigerator's ice cube maker is producing ice that tastes bad or smells funny, here are possible causes and solutions:
Possible cause 1: Dirty system filter.
Solution:
Replace it. Refrigerator purification system filters should be replaced at least every six months. Depending on usage, you may want to replace your refrigerator water filter more frequently. Read your refrigerator owner's manual for instructions specific for your model.
It’s a good idea to maintain stocks of filters to save time and money. Enter your refrigerator's model no . to find the manufacturer-recommended filter for your specific model.
Possible cause 2: Stale ice cubes
If you aren't often retrieving ice cubes, it could be that the old ice has absorbed odors from its food neighbors inside of your freezer or refrigerator. Food gases are easily transferred to water and ice. Actually, ice cubes can easily absorb odors from spoiled food inside your refrigerator's interior compartment.
Solution:
Use ice cubes more often. Keep your refrigerator and freezer free from spoiled food.
Possible cause 3: Unhealthy water supply.
If your city or well-provided water is full of impurities, minerals, salt or sulfur, your water and as a result, your ice cubes, will have an unfavorable taste and odor.
Solutions:
Make sure you frequently replace your water filtration system's filter.
If your refrigerator does not have a built-in water filtration system or an in-line filter on the water line for your refrigerator, consider this easy-to-install refrigerator water filter kit. It will remove impurities and chemicals to enhance water quality and taste.
Hard water may also be affecting the water quality. You can test for water hardness with one of these water test strips. You may need a water softening system. If you already have one in place, it might be using too much salt. Consult your water softening system owner's manual and adjust settings as needed.
Slight, but important tangent, since we're about water filtration: Ever hear of reverse osmosis (a.k.a. hyperfiltration) purification? It's the process that many water bottling companies use to lessen the amount of impurities and minerals in water. Today, you will find such systems available on the market for residential use. However, you ought to never connect a reverse osmosis filtration system to a refrigerator water supply – because of the possibility of reduced water pressure that can lead to refrigerator problems and expensive repairs.
Possible cause 4: Improperly sealed food.
Fresh and old ice alike will absorb food gases.
Solution:
Regularly cleanse your refrigerator and freezer, tossing out expired foods. Double wrap and bag products with weak packaging (this can also help prevent freezer burn). Use a freezer deodorizer that's specifically designed to combat strong food odors.
We also use a refrigerator deodorizer in our refrigerator compartments, too. According to the manufacturer, this refrigerator deodorizer is 50 times more powerful than baking soda in keeping refrigerators smelling fresh. It lasts up to six months and keeps highly-perishable food like vegetables and fruit fresher longer. Check out additional freezer and refrigerator deodorizers and cleaners.
Possible cause 5: Food spill / mildew growth.
Solution:
Thoroughly clean within the freezer and refrigerator using a solution of warm water and baking soda. The solution should be about one tablespoon of sodium bicarbonate to one quart of water. Stay away from cleaning products with harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia, as they may damage your refrigerator's interior walls. Look at your refrigerator owner's manual for specific instructions related to cleaning and mold removal.
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