Diagnosis
Mineral scale (limescale) builds up from water, and mold/biofilm can grow in the damp interior, affecting taste and performance. You need two separate processes: cleaning and descaling.
How to Fix It
For weekly cleaning: Unplug. Empty ice. Wipe interior with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Rinse. Never use abrasive cleaners. For monthly descaling: Mix a descaling solution (white vinegar & water 1:1 or a commercial descaler). Fill reservoir. Run a full cycle, then discard that ice. Run 2-3 cycles with fresh water to rinse.
If That Didn't Work
If you still get a foul taste or reduced output, scale might be in the internal lines. Use a stronger descaling solution and let it sit in the reservoir for 30 minutes before running the cycle. Ensure you're cleaning the evaporator plate (the cold metal part the ice forms on) gently with the cleaning tool.
Heads Up
Never use harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia. They can damage plastic seals and leave toxic residues. Vinegar or citric acid-based descalers are safe for this appliance.