it says ice full but the basket is only half full, now it stopped making ice.

Diagnosis

The "Ice Full" indicator on the Aeitto Countertop Ice Maker is triggered by a physical infrared (IR) sensor located on the underside of the top lid or the upper rim of the ice chamber. This sensor emits a beam of light; when ice piles up and breaks that beam, the machine assumes the basket is full and shuts off the freezing cycle to prevent ice from jamming the dispensing mechanism or damaging the motor. When the machine reports "Ice Full" despite the basket being only half-empty, it is almost always due to "ice bridging" or sensor obstruction. This happens when a few stray cubes lean against the side walls or clump together in a peak, blocking the sensor's line of sight even though there is plenty of room at the bottom. Additionally, mineral buildup from hard water or condensation droplets on the sensor lens can refract the IR beam, tricking the logic board into thinking the basket is maxed out.

How to Fix It

To reset the sensor and resume ice production, follow these precise steps:

1. Power down the unit by pressing the "OFF" button and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet to clear the temporary memory of the control board.
2. Remove the ice basket entirely. Use a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the IR sensor eyes. These are small, clear plastic protrusions located on the upper interior perimeter of the machine.
3. Inspect the interior walls of the ice chamber for "frost bridges"—thin layers of ice that have frozen to the sides. Use a plastic scraper or your finger to clear any ice clinging to the walls near the top rim.
4. Empty the ice basket completely into a freezer container to ensure no "peaks" of ice are remaining.
5. Reinsert the empty basket, ensuring it is seated flush against the bottom of the unit.
6. Plug the unit back in and press the "ON" button. Select your desired ice size (Small or Large) and wait 6 minutes for the first batch to drop.

If That Didn't Work

• Perform a Deep Descale: If you have hard water, calcium deposits can form a white film over the IR sensor. Mix a solution of 50% white vinegar and 50% warm water. Pour 2 cups into the reservoir and run a full cleaning cycle. Ensure you wipe the sensor area specifically with the vinegar solution to strip away mineral scale.
• Check for Air Bubbles in the Pump: If the sensor is clear but the machine still won't start, the pump may be air-locked. Tilt the machine gently forward and backward while it is running to help the pump prime and move water over the freezing pins.
• Reset the Thermal Fuse: If the machine is warm to the touch and the "Ice Full" light is flashing, the unit may have overheated. Move the machine at least 6 inches away from any walls or heat sources to allow the side vents to breathe, and let it sit unplugged for 2 hours before restarting.
• Verify Water Level: Ensure the water is not over the "MAX" line. Paradoxically, overfilling the reservoir can sometimes cause internal splashing that wets the sensor, triggering a false "Full" reading.

Heads Up

• Use Filtered Water: Always use filtered or distilled water. Tap water containing high levels of calcium and magnesium will create a cloudy film on the sensors, leading to more frequent false "Ice Full" errors.
• Avoid Manual Shaking: Do not shake the machine to settle the ice; this can displace the internal cooling lines or misalign the IR sensor. Instead, gently lift the basket out and shake it manually.
• Regular Drainage: Always drain the remaining water from the reservoir using the drain plug at the bottom when the machine will be unused for more than 24 hours to prevent biofilm buildup on the sensors.
• Avoid Overfilling: If you are using the "Large" ice setting, the cubes are more prone to bridging. Periodically stir the ice in the basket to keep the surface level flat.