The Antarctic Star HZB-12/C is a compact portable ice maker that produces up to 26 pounds of ice daily, but getting it running properly requires careful setup and regular maintenance. This guide walks you through Antarctic Star HZB-12/C setup and maintenance step-by-step, from unboxing to long-term storage, using the exact specifications from the official manual.
Unboxing and Pre-Setup Inspection
Checking all included components
Open the box carefully and remove all exterior and interior packaging materials. The HZB-12/C ships with several loose pieces that need verification before you proceed. Check that your unit includes:
- The main ice maker unit
- Ice basket (plastic container that holds finished ice)
- Ice scoop
- Power cord with three-prong plug
- User manual and warranty documentation
If any components are missing, contact Antarctic Star customer service immediately at 213-4467172 (8:30am – 5:30pm P.S.T.) with your proof of purchase.
Identifying packaging materials to remove
Shipping tape often secures the ice basket, ice scoop, and internal components for transport protection. You’ll need to remove all of these securing tapes and foam blocks before operation. Check inside the unit and around the perimeter for tape strips holding components in place. Don’t skip this step—leftover tape can interfere with the ice-making mechanism.
Verifying ice basket and scoop are present
The ice basket sits inside the storage compartment and catches finished ice cubes as they drop from the evaporator. The ice scoop is your tool for removing ice without using your hands. Both pieces must be present and free of damage before first use. Inspect the basket for cracks or warping—if present, contact customer service before proceeding.
Proper Placement and Location
Choosing a level, flat surface
Place the HZB-12/C on a level, flat countertop or table. An unlevel surface prevents proper water distribution in the tank and can cause the unit to malfunction or tip during operation. Use a level tool if you’re unsure about your surface. The unit measures 242mm wide × 353mm deep × 330mm tall and weighs 7.6kg (approximately 17 pounds), so a standard kitchen counter or portable table works well.
Maintaining required clearance from walls
The manual specifies a minimum 4-inch gap between the back of the unit and any wall. This clearance allows proper air circulation around the compressor and condenser coils on the rear of the machine. Without adequate back clearance, heat builds up inside the unit, reducing ice production and potentially causing the compressor to overheat and shut down.
Additionally, maintain 4 inches of clear space on both the left and right sides of the unit. Air exhausts from vents on the sides, and blocking these vents restricts airflow and reduces efficiency.
Avoiding direct sunlight and heat sources
Never place the HZB-12/C in direct sunlight or near heat sources like stoves, furnaces, radiators, or heat vents. Direct sunlight can cause two problems: it raises the water temperature inside the tank (slowing ice formation), and it can trigger the infrared ice-full sensor to malfunction, causing the unit to stop making ice even when the basket isn’t actually full.
The manual recommends a room temperature between 50°F and 105°F for optimal operation. If your kitchen or room gets warmer than this, place the unit in a cooler location like a basement or shaded porch.
Safe spacing requirements for ventilation
Allow at least one hour after unpacking before plugging in the unit. This gives the refrigerant fluid inside the sealed cooling system time to settle after shipping. Moving the unit during transport can agitate the refrigerant, and plugging it in immediately may cause compressor damage.
Electrical Connection and Grounding
Understanding three-prong plug requirements
The HZB-12/C ships with a three-prong grounding plug. This third prong (the round or U-shaped prong) is a critical safety feature that grounds the appliance and minimizes the risk of electric shock. Never cut off or remove the third prong, even if your wall outlet appears to be a two-prong outlet. Using an adapter to force the plug into a two-prong outlet defeats the grounding protection.
Exclusive outlet usage
The manual explicitly states: Plug your appliance into an exclusive, properly installed, grounded wall outlet. No other appliance should be plugged into the same outlet. This means the HZB-12/C must have its own dedicated circuit. Plugging other devices into the same outlet can overload the circuit, trip the breaker, or create a fire hazard.
Power requirements: 115V/60Hz specifications
The HZB-12/C requires a standard 110-120 volt, 60Hz electrical outlet with a three-prong ground. The unit draws 1.7 amps during normal ice-making cycles and 2.0 amps during ice harvest (when ice drops into the basket). If you’re unsure whether your outlet is properly grounded, consult a certified electrician before connecting the unit.
Why you shouldn’t use extension cords
The manual strongly discourages extension cord use because they can overheat and become a fire hazard. If you absolutely must use an extension cord (a very last resort), use No. 14 AWG minimum size rated for no less than 1875 watts. However, the safest approach is to place the unit near an available wall outlet or have an electrician install a new dedicated outlet in your desired location.
Initial Cleaning Before First Use
Cleaning the tank interior
Before you add water and start making ice, clean the inside of the water tank thoroughly. Remove the ice basket to access the tank interior. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish detergent. Using a soft cloth, wipe down all interior surfaces of the tank, including the bottom, sides, and the area under the water level mark. This removes any manufacturing residue, dust, or debris from the production process.
Rinsing ice basket and scoop
Wash the ice basket and ice scoop with warm water and mild detergent, then rinse thoroughly under running water. The ice basket in particular collects dust during storage and shipping. Once rinsed, set both items aside to air dry before returning them to the unit.
Draining initial water using drain cap
After rinsing the interior with clean water, you’ll need to drain out that rinse water. Locate the water drain cap on the front bottom side of the unit. This small cap allows you to access the drain valve. Unscrew or unplug the drain cap (the manual varies in terminology, but a gentle turn or pull should work), and let all water drain into a bucket or sink below. Don’t leave water sitting in the tank after cleaning—stagnant water can develop odors and bacteria.
Drying all components thoroughly
Once drained, use a clean soft cloth to dry the interior tank completely. Pay special attention to the bottom corners where water tends to collect. Dry the exterior of the unit as well. A completely dry unit before first use prevents mold growth and ensures the initial batch of ice has a clean, fresh taste.
The Self-Cleaning Cycle Explained
When to run self-cleaning program
The self-cleaning cycle is designed to sanitize the interior water system before first use and periodically during operation. The manual recommends running this cycle when you first set up the unit, especially after the initial cleaning. If you notice ice starting to look cloudy or develop an off taste after weeks of use, run the self-cleaning cycle again.
Step-by-step activation process
To start the self-cleaning program:
- Ensure the unit is plugged in and positioned on a stable surface
- Press and hold the ON/OFF button for more than 5 seconds
- The unit will enter self-cleaning mode (you’ll hear the compressor engage)
- The control panel display will indicate the cleaning cycle is active
Do not interrupt the cycle once started—let it run to completion.
30-minute cycle duration
The self-cleaning program takes exactly 30 minutes to complete. During this time, the cooling system circulates water through the ice-making components to flush out mineral deposits and bacteria. The compressor will run continuously, and you may hear unusual sounds as water moves through the system. This is normal. Set a timer or check the clock so you know when the cycle finishes.
Post-cleaning water drainage
When the 30-minute cycle completes, the unit will stop automatically. You must drain all the water before using the machine for ice production. Access the drain cap on the front bottom of the unit and drain the entire contents into a bucket. This water contains the minerals and particles that were flushed from the system during cleaning. After draining, wipe the interior dry with a soft cloth.
Daily Maintenance and Water Changes
24-hour water replacement schedule
The manual explicitly states: Change water in the water reservoir every 24 hours to ensure a reasonable hygiene level. This is not optional—it’s essential for food safety. Each day, drain all remaining water from the tank (using the drain cap), and refill with fresh potable water before making the next batch of ice. Over time, water sitting in the tank can develop bacteria and off-flavors that transfer to ice.
Using only potable drinking water
The manual emphasizes: Fill with potable water only. Only use drinking water. Do not use tap water from unknown sources, well water, rainwater, or filtered water unless you’ve verified it meets drinking water standards. If your tap water is hard or mineral-heavy, consider using distilled water or filtered water to reduce mineral buildup inside the machine and extend the life of internal components.
Maintaining water level below max mark
When you open the top cover and look inside the tank, you’ll see a maximum water level mark (indicated by a triangle ▲ symbol according to the manual). Never fill the tank above this line. Overfilling causes water to spill into the ice-making mechanism and can damage the infrared sensor and other components. The correct fill level is just below the maximum mark, leaving about half an inch of space at the top.
Hygiene standards compliance
The 24-hour water change rule, combined with daily inspection of the ice basket for debris, keeps your ice maker meeting basic food safety standards. If the unit will not be used for several days or longer, drain all water completely and dry the interior before storage. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
Cleaning Exterior and Components
Mild detergent solution for outside
The exterior plastic housing of the HZB-12/C should be cleaned regularly to prevent dust and grime buildup. Mix a mild detergent (like dish soap) with warm water. Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge to wipe down the outside of the unit, including the top cover, sides, and front control panel. Pay special attention to vents and air exhaust areas where dust accumulates.
Soft cloth drying procedures
After cleaning with the detergent solution, rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the unit again to remove soap residue. Finally, use a dry soft cloth to thoroughly dry the exterior. Leaving the unit wet can damage the control panel electronics and promote mold growth on the plastic housing.
Never using flammable cleaning fluids
The manual includes a critical safety warning: Do not clean your ice maker with flammable fluids. The fumes can create a fire hazard or explosion. This means no acetone, alcohol, gasoline, or other flammable solvents. Stick to water and mild dish detergent only. The refrigerant inside the sealed system is flammable, and fumes from cleaning solvents can ignite if they contact the compressor.
Accessing the water drain cap
The water drain cap is located on the front bottom side of the unit. To drain water, turn off the unit and unplug it from the outlet. Position a bucket or shallow pan underneath the drain cap location. Gently unscrew or pull the drain cap—it may drip, so have paper towels nearby. Once water stops dripping, you can screw the cap back in place. Keep this cap clean and free of mineral deposits. If it becomes clogged, soak it in white vinegar for 15 minutes to dissolve buildup, then rinse thoroughly.
Long-Term Storage Preparation
Complete water draining procedure
If you won’t be using the HZB-12/C for more than a few days, drain all water from the system. Using the drain cap on the front bottom, allow the entire tank to empty. Don’t leave water sitting in the tank during extended downtime—it will develop odors, mold, and bacterial growth that are difficult to remove later.
Interior drying requirements
After draining, use a clean soft cloth to wipe down the interior tank walls and bottom until completely dry. If moisture remains, leave the top cover open in a warm, dry area (away from direct sunlight) for several hours to air dry. A completely dry interior prevents mold and mildew from forming during storage.
Off-season storage tips
Store the unit in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures, moisture, and direct sunlight. Do not store it in a garage, basement, or outdoor shed where temperature and humidity fluctuate dramatically. If you’re storing it for winter, keep it indoors at room temperature. Cover the unit loosely with a clean cloth to keep dust out, but don’t seal it in an airtight bag or container—some air circulation prevents mold growth.
Wintertime warm-up requirements before use
Here’s a critical point many users miss: If the ice maker is brought in from outside in wintertime, give it a few hours to warm up to room temperature before plugging it in. The refrigerant inside the sealed cooling system becomes thick and sluggish in cold temperatures. Plugging in a cold unit can damage the compressor. After bringing the unit indoors from a cold storage location, wait at least 2-3 hours (some recommend 4-5 hours) before connecting it to power. This allows the refrigerant to reach room temperature and flow properly through the system.
Operating Summary Table
Use this quick reference to keep your HZB-12/C running optimally:
| Task | Frequency | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Change water | Every 24 hours | Drain old water, refill with potable water below max mark |
| Clean ice basket | Weekly or as needed | Wipe down with soft cloth, remove any debris |
| Self-cleaning cycle | Monthly or if ice tastes off | Hold ON/OFF button 5+ seconds, wait 30 minutes, drain water |
| Clean exterior | Weekly | Mild detergent solution and soft cloth, dry thoroughly |
| Drain and dry for storage | Before long-term storage | Completely empty tank and interior, store in cool dry place |
FAQ
How long does it take to make the first batch of ice?
The ice-making cycle lasts approximately 6 to 13 minutes, depending on whether you select small or large ice cubes and your room temperature. Larger cubes take longer. The recommended room temperature is 50°F to 105°F. If your room is cooler than 50°F, select small ice cubes to speed up the process and prevent ice cubes from sticking together.
What should I do if the ADD WATER indicator stays on?
The ADD WATER indicator means the water pump cannot inject water into the ice-making chamber. Check that the water level in the tank is actually at or above the minimum level (the tank needs water to function). If water is present, the pump intake may be clogged. Turn off the unit, unplug it, and inspect the interior for debris. Refill the tank with fresh water. Wait at least 3 minutes before restarting—the refrigerant needs time to settle. Press ON/OFF again to resume operation.
Why did my ice maker stop making ice even though the basket isn’t full?
The ice-full sensor uses an infrared beam to detect when ice blocks the basket. If direct sunlight or sunlight reflection hits the sensor window, it may malfunction and falsely detect a full basket. Move the unit away from direct sunlight. If the sensor is blocked by ice or water droplets, the unit will also stop. Open the top cover, remove the ice basket, and check if anything is obstructing the sensor area (a small black window on the interior wall). If you need to force the unit to continue making ice despite the indicator, press and hold the SELECT button for 5 seconds—this will allow the unit to make 10 more cycles.
Can I use tap water, or do I need distilled water?
The manual requires potable (drinking-quality) water only. Standard tap water is fine if it meets local drinking water standards. However, if your tap water is very hard or mineral-heavy, consider using distilled or filtered water to minimize mineral deposits inside the unit. Mineral buildup on the evaporator coils reduces ice production over time. If you do use tap water, run the self-cleaning cycle monthly to dissolve mineral deposits.
What do I do if I’m storing the ice maker over winter?
Drain all water from the tank and interior, dry the unit completely with a soft cloth, and store it indoors at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Do not store it in an unheated garage or shed—temperature fluctuations damage the refrigerant system. When you bring the unit back out after winter storage, allow it to sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours before plugging it in. This gives the refrigerant time to warm up and flow properly through the compressor.
Setting up and maintaining the Antarctic Star HZB-12/C properly ensures years of reliable ice production. Follow the specific steps in this guide—especially the 4-inch clearance requirement, exclusive outlet use, and 24-hour water changes—and you’ll avoid common problems that lead to poor ice quality or equipment failure. The 30-minute self-cleaning cycle is your tool for keeping the internal water system fresh and sanitized. If you encounter issues beyond these maintenance procedures, contact Antarctic Star customer service at 213-4467172 with your proof of purchase for warranty support.