how do you clean the inside of this thing? the manual says to run a cleaning cycle but i don't see a button for that

Diagnosis

The Newair AI-100SS is designed with a minimalist interface, which leads many users to believe there is a missing button or a defective control panel when they cannot find a "Clean" or "Self-Clean" option. In reality, the cleaning cycle is a hidden software command triggered by a specific button combination. This is a common design choice in portable ice makers to keep the exterior sleek, but it creates confusion during routine maintenance. The internal components—specifically the evaporator coils and the water pump—are prone to mineral buildup (scaling) from calcium and magnesium found in tap water. If you notice the ice cubes are becoming smaller, cloudy, or the machine is taking longer than 6-10 minutes to produce a batch, it is a sign that the internal lines are constricted. Because you cannot physically scrub the interior tubing or the freezing probes, the machine uses a "circulating flush" mode to push cleaning agents through the system to dissolve these deposits.

How to Fix It

To properly execute the cleaning cycle on the AI-100SS, follow these precise steps to ensure the internal pump is fully flushed without damaging the sensors.

1. Clear the Basin: Remove all remaining ice from the basket and wipe the interior walls with a damp, lint-free microfiber cloth to remove any loose debris.
2. Prepare the Solution: Mix a solution of 16 oz of warm (not boiling) distilled water and 2 oz of white distilled vinegar. Alternatively, use a specialized citric acid-based descaler. Pour this mixture directly into the water reservoir, ensuring you do not exceed the "Max" fill line.
3. Trigger the Hidden Cycle: Ensure the unit is plugged in. Press and hold the "Ice Size" and "Power" buttons simultaneously for approximately 3 to 5 seconds. You will hear the pump engage and see the water begin to circulate over the freezing probes.
4. The Circulation Phase: Let the machine run this cycle for 15 to 20 minutes. The unit will move the vinegar solution through the internal lines and over the evaporator coils to break down scale.
5. The Pure Water Rinse: This is the most critical step. Drain the vinegar solution completely. Fill the reservoir with fresh, filtered water and repeat the button sequence (Ice Size + Power) to run a second cycle. This removes the vinegar smell and taste from the ice.
6. Final Dry: Open the lid and let the interior air dry for 30 minutes before resuming normal ice production.

If That Didn't Work

• Manual Probe Scrubbing: If the cleaning cycle doesn't remove visible white crust from the freezing probes, use a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar. Gently scrub the metal probes where they meet the plastic housing. Be careful not to use metal scrapers or abrasive pads, as scratching the coating can lead to faster corrosion and "pitting" of the metal.
• Deep Reservoir Soak: If you suspect mold or biofilm in the reservoir, create a solution of one tablespoon of baking soda and warm water. Fill the tank and let it sit for two hours before running the standard cleaning cycle. This neutralizes odors that vinegar sometimes misses.
• Hard Reset: If the button combination isn't triggering the cycle, unplug the unit from the wall for 10 full minutes to clear the control board's memory. Plug it back in and attempt the "Ice Size" + "Power" hold again immediately after power-up.
• External Vent Cleaning: If the machine is running but not freezing well after a clean, use a vacuum or compressed air to clean the intake vents on the sides and back. Dust buildup here causes the condenser to overheat, which mimics the symptoms of a dirty internal system.

Heads Up

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach or ammonia-based cleaners inside the AI-100SS. These can degrade the rubber seals and leave toxic residues that are nearly impossible to flush out of the internal tubing.
• Filter Your Water: To reduce the frequency of deep cleans, use filtered or bottled water. This significantly slows the accumulation of calcium deposits on the evaporator.
• Frequency: Perform this cleaning cycle every 2 to 4 weeks depending on your local water hardness. If you have "hard water," a monthly clean is mandatory to prevent pump failure.
• Storage Warning: If you are storing the unit for the season, run a cleaning cycle first, then drain all water and leave the lid slightly ajar to prevent mold growth from trapped moisture.