The Antarctic Star HZB-12/C produces up to 26 pounds of ice daily, but common issues like the ADD WATER indicator staying on, ice cubes sticking together, and the ICE FULL sensor malfunctioning can leave you with an empty ice basket. This Antarctic Star HZB-12/C troubleshooting guide walks you through the control panel, step-by-step fixes for the most frequent problems, and maintenance procedures to prevent issues before they start.
Understanding Your Antarctic Star HZB-12/C Control Panel
Your ice maker’s control panel uses a simple touch display system with four indicator lights and two buttons. Knowing what each light means and how to use the buttons is the first step to diagnosing any problem.
Key indicator lights explained
Power Indicator (Light B): This light illuminates when the unit is plugged in and powered on. If you press the ON/OFF button and this light doesn’t turn on, check that the unit is properly grounded in a 110-120 volt, 60Hz outlet with a three-prong plug.
ADD WATER Indicator (Light D): This light turns on when the water level falls below the minimum threshold or the water pump fails to inject water into the evaporator. The ice maker stops automatically when this indicator activates.
ICE FULL Indicator (Light C): This light signals that ice has filled the basket to capacity. An infrared sensor detects when ice blocks the sensor opening. The ice maker stops the cycle and halts production until ice is removed.
Ice Size Display (Light A): Shows whether you’ve selected small or large ice cubes. Small cubes form in approximately 6-8 minutes; large cubes take 10-13 minutes depending on room temperature.
Button functions and settings
ON/OFF Button (E): Starts and stops the ice-making cycle. Press once to begin operation. Press again to stop. To enter the self-cleaning program, press and hold this button for more than 5 seconds—the cleaning cycle takes 30 minutes.
SELECT Button (F): Toggles between small and large ice cube sizes. Press briefly to switch modes. This button also serves another purpose: if the ICE FULL indicator is on but you want to make additional ice, continuously press the SELECT button for 5 seconds and the unit will complete 10 more ice-making cycles regardless of the full indicator.
Fix ADD WATER Indicator Staying On
The ADD WATER indicator turning on is the most common complaint because it can result from either low water levels or a failing water pump. The manual identifies lack of water as the primary cause, but the diagnostic steps matter.
Step-by-step water refill procedure
1. Stop the ice maker immediately. Press the ON/OFF button to halt the current cycle.
2. Open the top cover. Rotate the transparent window cover counterclockwise and set it aside.
3. Remove the ice basket. Lift the basket straight up and out of the unit. This exposes the water tank interior and the water level mark—a line etched or marked on the interior side wall.
4. Fill with potable water only. Using the included water scoop or a measuring cup, add filtered or distilled water. Fill until the water level reaches the MAXIMUM WATER LEVEL mark (shown as a ▲ symbol on the tank interior). Do not overfill.
5. Replace the ice basket. Slide it back into the unit until it sits flush.
6. Allow refrigerant to settle. If you’ve just filled the unit or recently restarted it, wait at least 3 minutes before pressing ON/OFF again. The refrigerant liquid inside the compressor needs time to redistribute.
7. Press ON/OFF to restart. The unit should now begin the ice-making cycle. If the ADD WATER indicator turns off and the cycle continues, the problem was simply low water.
Water pump failure diagnosis
If you’ve refilled the water to the maximum level mark and the ADD WATER indicator still activates within 1-2 minutes, the water pump likely has failed. The water pump is responsible for injecting water from the reservoir into the evaporator.
Listen for the pump sound. When you press ON/OFF, you should hear a faint humming or clicking noise from inside the unit within the first 10 seconds—this is the pump attempting to draw water. If you hear nothing, the pump is not receiving power or has seized.
Check for water leaks. Examine the front bottom of the unit where the water drain cap is located (on the front bottom side). If water is pooling beneath the unit during operation, a valve or pump seal may be damaged.
Run the self-cleaning cycle. Before concluding the pump has failed, run the self-cleaning program. Press ON/OFF for more than 5 seconds. During this 30-minute cycle, the pump runs continuously and can sometimes clear minor blockages or reset its position. After the cleaning cycle finishes, drain the water by unplugging the drain cap, refill the tank, and try a normal ice cycle.
If the ADD WATER indicator still activates after the self-cleaning cycle and a full water tank, the pump requires replacement and you should contact customer service.
When to contact customer service
Contact Antarctic Star customer service at 213-4467172 (8:30am – 5:30pm P.S.T.) if:
- The ADD WATER indicator remains on after refilling to the maximum level mark and waiting 3 minutes
- You observe water leaking from the bottom or sides of the unit
- The water pump makes no sound during operation
- The self-cleaning cycle does not resolve the issue
Have your proof of purchase ready—it is required for warranty service. The unit’s address is 9733 Topanga Canyon Blvd. APT310, Chatsworth, CA 91311.
Solve Ice Cubes Sticking Together Problem
Sticky, clumped ice is frustrating because the ice maker is actually functioning, but something is causing the cubes to freeze into a solid block instead of remaining separate. The manual identifies three causes: a cycle that runs too long, water temperature that is too low, and room temperature that is too high.
Temperature-related causes
Your ice maker relies on a specific temperature window to produce separated ice cubes. The recommended room temperature is 50℉ to 105℉, and water temperature should be 40℉ to 90℉.
If room temperature is below 60℉: Cold indoor temperatures (common in basements, garages, or during winter months) cause ice to form more slowly and remain wet longer on the evaporator. The cubes stick to each other and the metal surface because the moisture doesn’t evaporate as quickly. The fix is simple—select small ice cube mode (press the SELECT button) instead of large. Small cubes freeze faster in cold environments.
If water temperature is too low: Water straight from a cold tap (especially in winter) or water that has been sitting in an unheated location makes the entire cycle slower. The evaporator must work harder to freeze already-cold water, and the process takes longer, allowing cubes to bond. Solution: let tap water sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before filling the tank, or use water from a warm tap if available.
If room temperature is too high (above 90℉): This seems counterintuitive, but excessive heat interferes with the harvest cycle—the part where cubes are ejected from the evaporator. If the room is too warm, ice may begin melting slightly as it’s being harvested, causing them to stick together. Move the unit away from direct sunlight, heat sources (stove, radiator, furnace), and ensure at least 4 inches of clearance on all sides for proper air circulation.
Switching to small ice cube mode
The Antarctic Star HZB-12/C offers two ice cube sizes. Large cubes take 10-13 minutes to form, while small cubes are ready in 6-8 minutes. When cubes are sticking, small mode is your first fix because:
- The shorter cycle reduces the time cubes spend on the evaporator
- Smaller surface area means less contact between adjacent cubes
- Faster freezing happens even at lower water temperatures
To switch modes, press the SELECT button (F on the control panel). The ice size display (A) will toggle between small and large. The next ice-making cycle will use your selected size.
Water replacement intervals
Stale water contributes to slower freezing and clumping. The manual explicitly states: “Change water in the water reservoir every 24 hours to ensure a reasonable hygiene level.”
Every morning, drain the tank using the water drain cap on the front bottom side of the unit, rinse the interior with a soft cloth and diluted detergent, and refill with fresh potable water. Old, mineral-laden water freezes at a different rate than fresh water, and mineral deposits can coat the evaporator, making the harvest cycle less effective.
No Ice Formation Despite Normal Cycle
A silent or running unit that produces zero ice suggests either environmental conditions are out of range, the refrigerant system is leaking, or a cooling pipe is blocked.
Room and water temperature requirements
Your ice maker cannot produce ice if temperatures are outside the designed operating range. Check both conditions before suspecting mechanical failure:
| Temperature Parameter | Acceptable Range | Action if Out of Range |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 50℉ to 105℉ | Move unit to a warmer location (above 50℉) or cooler location (below 105℉) |
| Water Temperature | 40℉ to 90℉ | Allow cold water to warm to room temperature before filling tank |
| Refrigerant Settling Time | 3-5 minutes after restart | Wait before pressing ON/OFF a second time after refilling or power loss |
If both temperature conditions are met and the unit has been running for more than 15 minutes without producing ice, move to the next diagnostic steps.
Identifying refrigerant system leaks
The Antarctic Star HZB-12/C uses R600a refrigerant (0.74 oz / 21 grams total charge). The design pressure on the high side is 290 PSI and the low side is 88 PSI. If refrigerant has leaked, the system cannot reach the temperatures needed to freeze water.
Visual inspection: Look for oily residue around copper tubing connections at the back of the unit or near the compressor (located inside near the bottom). Refrigerant always carries a small amount of oil, so a leak will leave a greasy film.
Listen to the compressor: When you press ON/OFF, the compressor motor should start within 2-3 seconds and run continuously. If you hear the motor running but the evaporator (the metal coil inside where ice forms) never gets cold to the touch, refrigerant may be low.
Do not attempt to refill refrigerant yourself.** The manual warns: “DANGER – Risk Of Fire Or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. To Be Repaired Only By Trained Service Personnel.” A qualified technician with proper equipment must diagnose a leak, replace any damaged tubing, and recharge the system with the correct amount of R600a.
Cooling pipe blockage detection
A blockage in the evaporator pipes prevents refrigerant circulation, stopping ice formation even though the compressor runs.
Feel the evaporator coil temperature: Open the top cover and carefully touch the metal evaporator coil (the part where ice normally forms). After 5 minutes of operation, it should be noticeably cold—cold enough that you can only hold your finger on it briefly. If it remains at room temperature, a blockage or low refrigerant is likely.
Check for ice inside the tank: A blockage sometimes causes the evaporator to freeze solid with water that cannot escape. If you see a thick layer of ice coating the evaporator surface that won’t release cubes, the system is frozen. Stop the unit immediately and allow it to defrost at room temperature for 2-4 hours before restarting.
Blockages require professional service.** Mechanical devices must not be used to clear blockages—the manual explicitly warns: “DANGER – Risk Of Fire or Explosion. Flammable Refrigerant Used. Do Not Use Mechanical Devices To Defrost Ice Maker. Do Not Puncture Refrigerant Tubing.” Contact customer service for technician support.
ICE FULL Indicator Not Stopping the Machine
The ICE FULL indicator uses an infrared sensor to detect when ice blocks the sensor opening. If the indicator stays off and the unit keeps running even with a full basket, the sensor is not detecting ice.
Infrared sensor malfunction from sunlight
The manual specifically identifies this problem: “Warning: Direct sunlight or sunlight reflection may cause infrared sensor malfunction. If the unit doesn’t stop even ice cubes obstruct sensor, move the unit where no sunlight.”
Infrared sensors work by emitting invisible light and measuring reflections. When direct sunlight or bright reflections hit the sensor, it creates false signals or overpowers the sensor’s ability to detect ice.
Immediate fix: Move the ice maker to a location away from windows, skylights, and reflective surfaces (mirrors, stainless steel appliances). Even indirect sunlight streaming through a room can interfere. A kitchen counter next to a window, a garage near a skylight, or a patio with morning sun will all cause sensor issues. Relocate the unit to an interior location or place it in shade.
Check the sensor lens: Open the top cover and look for the ice full sensor (labeled as item 3 in the unit diagram). The sensor should have a small clear lens. If it’s dirty, dusty, or covered with frost, wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth. Dust and ice buildup block the infrared beam.
Overriding sensor to make additional ice
Sometimes the basket is not actually full but the sensor thinks it is (false positive), or you want to make additional ice despite the full basket. The manual provides a solution: “Continuous press Select button 5 seconds, the unit could make ice 10 cycles even Ice indicator is on.”
To override the sensor:
- When the ICE FULL indicator is on and the unit has stopped, press and hold the SELECT button (F)
- Keep pressing for a full 5 seconds—do not release early
- The unit will resume operation and produce 10 additional ice-making cycles
- After 10 cycles, it will stop again automatically
This override is useful if you want extra ice for a party or if you know the basket isn’t truly full. However, do not overuse this feature—a basket overflowing with ice can strain the harvest mechanism (the motor that ejects cubes).
Resetting the ice full detection
If the sensor has malfunctioned due to sunlight exposure and you’ve moved the unit to a shadeless location, reset the system with a power cycle.
1. Press ON/OFF to stop the unit. Wait 10 seconds.
2. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet. Wait 30 seconds. This clears any residual power from the control board.
3. Plug the unit back in. The control panel should light up. If the ICE FULL indicator is still lit, the sensor was truly blocked by ice or dirt—not just confused by sunlight.
4. If the indicator is now off, press ON/OFF to start a fresh cycle. The sensor has been reset.
If the ICE FULL indicator remains lit after a power cycle and the basket is empty, the sensor itself has failed electrically. This requires replacement by a qualified technician—contact customer service.
Temperature Guidelines for Optimal Performance
Temperature control is not a luxury feature on the Antarctic Star HZB-12/C—it is a functional requirement. The unit cannot operate outside specific thermal boundaries.
Ideal room temperature range
The optimal room temperature is 50℉ to 105℉. Within this range, the compressor works efficiently, ice forms at the right speed, and cubes remain separate during harvest.
Below 50℉ (basements, cold garages, winter patios): Ice formation is slow and cubes tend to stick together. If your space is below 50℉, the manual manual recommends switching to small ice cube mode. The faster cycle compensates for cold conditions.
Above 105℉ (hot kitchens, outdoor installations in summer): The compressor runs continuously trying to cool the evaporator, consuming more energy. Ice harvest becomes unreliable—the cubes may melt slightly as they’re ejected. The unit may overheat and trigger a safety shutdown. Do not use the ice maker in direct sunlight or within 4 inches of heat sources like stoves, ovens, furnaces, or radiators.
Water temperature recommendations
Recommended water temperature is 40℉ to 90℉. This is the temperature of the water when you pour it into the tank, not the room temperature.
Cold tap water (below 40℉): In winter or in areas with very cold water mains, straight tap water can be below the recommended minimum. The ice maker must work harder to freeze already-cold water, extending the cycle time and increasing the risk of cubes sticking. Solution: fill a pitcher with tap water and let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before filling the tank.
Hot tap water (above 90℉): Never fill the tank with hot water from the tap. While it may seem like it would speed up ice formation (it doesn’t—the compressor must cool it down anyway), hot water causes the system to work harder and can lead to ice clumping during harvest because the cooling cycle is slowed.
Seasonal adjustment tips
Winter operation: If you must use the ice maker in a cold location, pre-warm water before filling (let tap water sit 1-2 hours), switch to small ice cube mode, and ensure the room is at least 50℉. If the space cannot reach 50℉, move the unit indoors temporarily.
Summer operation: Place the ice maker in the coolest part of your kitchen or room. Keep it away from direct sun, even through windows. Ensure 4 inches of clearance on all sides for air circulation. If your kitchen regularly exceeds 90℉, consider a dedicated cooling location like a basement or shaded porch.
Seasonal storage: If you’re storing the unit during an off-season, drain all water completely using the front bottom drain cap, dry the interior with a soft cloth, and leave the top cover loose (not sealed) to prevent mold growth. Before restarting after storage, allow the unit to sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour, then run the self-cleaning cycle before making ice.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Common Issues
Consistent maintenance prevents the majority of problems you’ll encounter with the Antarctic Star HZB-12/C. Most failures are caused by dirty water, stale ice, or buildup inside the tank.
Daily water changes required
The manual is clear: “Change water in the water reservoir every 24 hours to ensure a reasonable hygiene level.” This is not optional for sanitary ice.
Daily procedure:
- Press ON/OFF to stop the unit
- Open the top cover by rotating counterclockwise
- Remove the ice basket
- Unplug the water drain cap (located on the front bottom side of the unit) and allow water to drain into a sink or bucket
- Rinse the interior tank with diluted detergent and warm water using a soft cloth
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap
- Refill the tank with fresh potable water up to the MAXIMUM WATER LEVEL mark
- Replace the drain cap securely
- Replace the ice basket
- Press ON/OFF to resume operation
Skipping daily water changes allows mineral deposits to accumulate on the evaporator, reducing cooling efficiency and leading to slower ice formation and sticking cubes. Stale water also develops odor and can affect ice taste.
Self-cleaning cycle procedure
Every month (or after periods of non-use), run the self-cleaning program to flush the system and remove mineral buildup.
Self-cleaning steps:
- Ensure the tank is filled with fresh water
- Press and hold the ON/OFF button for more than 5 seconds (not the SELECT button)
- The display will indicate the unit has entered self-cleaning mode
- The cleaning cycle runs for 30 minutes—do not interrupt it
- During the cycle, water is circulated through the pump and evaporator at high frequency to dislodge mineral deposits and flush debris
- When the 30-minute cycle completes, the unit will stop automatically
- Drain the water using the front bottom drain cap and discard it—this water contains flushed minerals and particles
- Rinse the interior with a soft cloth
- Refill with fresh water and resume normal operation
The self-cleaning cycle also helps if you suspect the water pump is blocked or sluggish. The high-flow action often clears minor restrictions.
Long-term storage preparation
If you’re storing the ice maker for more than 2 weeks (seasonal storage, moving, extended travel), proper preparation prevents mold, damage, and ensures rapid restart.
Storage preparation:
- Drain all water from the tank using the front bottom drain cap
- Remove the ice basket and any remaining ice—let it melt in a sink or bucket
- Wipe the interior with a soft, dry cloth until no moisture remains
- Leave the top cover loosely in place (do not seal it tight) to allow air circulation and prevent mold
- Store in a dry location away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Ensure the power cord is not crushed or bent during storage
Before restart after storage:
- Allow the unit to sit at room temperature (68-72℉) for at least 1 hour before plugging in
- The refrigerant fluid inside needs time to settle after transport or position changes
- Fill the tank with fresh water and run the self-cleaning cycle (press ON/OFF for 5+ seconds)
- After cleaning, drain and refill with fresh water
- Begin normal operation
Never plug in a cold ice maker immediately after bringing it in from an outdoor winter location—the manual warns: “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.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my ice maker produce ice for 13 minutes on large size but only 6 minutes on small size?
Small ice cubes require less time to freeze because they have smaller surface area and less mass. Large cubes need the full 13 minutes (or longer in cold rooms) to freeze solid through their center. The cycle time also varies with room temperature—the colder the room, the longer freezing takes, even for small cubes. This is normal and expected behavior.
Can I use filtered water or distilled water instead of tap water?
Yes, the manual states to use “potable water only” (drinking water). Distilled water is preferable because it contains fewer minerals, which reduces evaporator buildup and extends the time between self-cleaning cycles. Avoid using well water, salt water, or any non-potable liquid—it will damage the pump and evaporator.
What does it mean when the compressor runs continuously but no ice forms?
If the compressor motor is running (you hear it humming) but the evaporator never gets cold and no ice forms, either refrigerant has leaked from the system or a blockage prevents refrigerant circulation. Both require professional service—do not attempt repairs yourself. Contact customer service with this symptom.
Why does the ice maker stop working during summer when my kitchen gets above 90℉?
Above 105℉, the compressor cannot cool the evaporator sufficiently to freeze water, and the unit may trigger a safety shutdown to prevent overheating. Move the ice maker to a cooler location or ensure the room temperature stays below 90℉. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
If I override the ICE FULL sensor by holding SELECT for 5 seconds, will the ice overflowing damage the unit?
The override mechanism is designed to allow 10 additional cycles safely. However, do not repeatedly override if the basket is genuinely full and overflowing—excessive ice in the basket can strain the ice shovel motor (the mechanism that ejects cubes). Use the override only occasionally when you want extra ice for a specific need, not as a routine procedure.
The Antarctic Star HZB-12/C is a reliable countertop ice maker when operated within its design specifications and maintained consistently. Most common problems—the ADD WATER indicator, sticky ice, and sensor failures—can be resolved with the step-by-step procedures outlined above. The key is understanding that temperature control and daily water changes are not optional features; they are requirements for the unit to function correctly. When mechanical issues arise (refrigerant leaks, pump failure, sensor failure), professional service is necessary—never attempt to repair the refrigerant system yourself. By following the manual’s maintenance schedule and keeping the unit in an appropriate environment, you’ll avoid the majority of Antarctic Star HZB-12/C troubleshooting scenarios entirely.