how do i clean this thing? the manual says something about a cleaning cycle but i can't get it to start

Diagnosis

The failure to initiate the cleaning cycle on the Costway EP24744US is typically caused by the unit's internal logic requiring a "Ready" state before it will accept the command sequence. If the machine is currently in a freeze cycle, if the ice basket is completely full, or if the water level sensor detects a low reservoir, the control board will ignore the button combination. Many users attempt to trigger the cycle while the machine is off or during an active ice-making phase, which prevents the firmware from switching into the specialized cleaning mode. Furthermore, mineral buildup (calcium and magnesium) from hard water creates a physical film on the evaporator pins. This buildup can trick the sensors into thinking the unit is already "full" or "frozen," effectively locking out the cleaning function. To confirm the issue, check if the "Add Water" light is flashing or if the "Ice Full" indicator is lit; if either is active, the cleaning cycle trigger will be unresponsive.

How to Fix It

1. Empty the ice basket completely. Remove all remaining ice cubes to ensure the sensors have a clear reading of the internal cavity.
2. Fill the water reservoir to the "Max" line using a solution of 50% distilled white vinegar and 50% warm filtered water. For heavy scale buildup, you can use a commercial citric acid descaler diluted according to the package instructions.
3. Plug the unit into a grounded wall outlet and ensure the main power switch is in the ON position.
4. Wait for the unit to reach a standby state (the "Ready" light should be steady, not flashing).
5. Simultaneously press and hold the Power button and the Ice Size button. You must hold both buttons firmly for exactly 3 to 5 seconds.
6. Listen for a distinct confirmation beep. Once the beep sounds, all indicator lights on the control panel will flash rapidly for two seconds to signal that the cleaning mode has been activated.
7. Allow the machine to run the cycle completely. The unit will circulate the cleaning solution through the internal pumps and over the cooling pins. This typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.
8. Once the cycle finishes, drain the reservoir completely by tilting the unit backward (over a sink) or using a sponge.
9. Fill the reservoir with fresh, clean water and run one standard ice-making cycle. Discard this first batch of ice to ensure no vinegar residue remains.

If That Didn't Work

• Manual Sensor Reset: If the buttons aren't responding, unplug the unit for 10 full minutes. This clears the volatile memory of the control board. Plug it back in and immediately attempt the button combination before the unit starts its first cooling cycle.
• Physical Probe Cleaning: Use a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar to gently scrub the metal sensing probes located at the bottom of the water reservoir. If these probes are coated in lime scale, the machine "thinks" it is empty and will refuse to start the cleaning cycle.
• Ventilation Clearance: Ensure there is at least 6 inches of clearance around the side vents. If the unit is overheating, the internal thermal protector may disable secondary functions like the cleaning mode to prevent motor burnout.
• Hard Reset: If the lights are frozen, press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds while the unit is unplugged, then plug it back in. This can sometimes "wake up" a glitched control panel.

Heads Up

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach or abrasive scrubbing pads on the interior cooling pins. These pins are coated in a specialized refrigerant-conductive layer that can be stripped, leading to permanent efficiency loss or leaks.
• Preventative Maintenance: To avoid the need for deep cleaning cycles, use bottled or filtered water instead of tap water. This reduces the mineral load and prevents the "Ice Full" sensor from triggering falsely.
• Storage Protocol: If you are not using the machine for more than two weeks, drain all water and leave the lid open. Storing the unit closed and wet leads to mold growth in the internal tubing that the cleaning cycle cannot reach.
• Vinegar Warning: Do not leave the vinegar solution in the machine for more than 24 hours, as the acidity can eventually degrade the rubber gaskets in the pump assembly.