the ice it makes tastes weird, kind of plastic or chemical. i've run the clean cycle twice.

Diagnosis

The chemical or "plastic" taste common in the Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is typically caused by residual manufacturing lubricants and "new plastic" off-gassing from the internal food-grade tubing and the polyethylene reservoir. While these materials are safe, they leave a microscopic film on the internal components that the standard self-cleaning cycle—which is designed for mineral buildup—cannot fully strip away. The issue is compounded because the nugget ice process involves compressing ice flakes into cylinders; this high-pressure action can trap air pockets and residue within the ice nuggets themselves, making the taste more pronounced than in standard cube ice. If you have already run the clean cycle twice and the taste persists, it confirms that the residue is adhered to the tubing and the freezing cylinder, requiring a more aggressive flushing method than the automated cycle provides.

How to Fix It

To fully neutralize the plastic taste and purge the internal lines, follow this deep-flush sequence. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these can degrade the seals and leave a permanent chemical scent.

1. The Acidic Flush: Mix a solution of 50% distilled white vinegar and 50% filtered cold water. Fill the reservoir to the "Max" line.
2. Cycle Execution: Press the "Clean" button to initiate the automated cycle. Let the machine run the full duration. Once the cycle finishes, do not immediately refill it; instead, manually drain the reservoir by tipping the machine slightly or using a small cup to remove all remaining vinegar solution.
3. The Pure Water Purge: Fill the reservoir with fresh, filtered water. Ensure you are using filtered water rather than tap water to prevent new mineral tastes from masking the process.
4. The Triple-Discard Method: Turn the machine on and allow it to produce three full batches of ice. Do not consume any of this ice. Once the basket is full, dump the ice into the sink.
5. Final Rinse: Repeat the "Triple-Discard" process one more time. In total, you should discard approximately 5-8 lbs of ice before the first consumption. This ensures that every inch of the internal tubing has been flushed of manufacturing residues.

If That Didn't Work

• Switch to Distilled Water: If the taste persists, it may actually be a reaction between your local tap water minerals and the new plastic. Run two full cycles using only distilled water. If the taste disappears, the issue is your water chemistry, not the machine.
• Inspect the Air Filter: Check the small ventilation grill on the side of the unit. If the machine is placed too close to a wall (less than 4 inches), it can overheat, causing the plastic housing to warm up and leach a "plastic" smell into the ice. Move the unit to a high-airflow area.
• Manual Reservoir Scrub: Use a soft microfiber cloth dipped in a mild soap solution to wipe down the interior walls of the water reservoir. Sometimes a film of residue settles on the plastic walls that the water flow doesn't touch. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water before restarting.
• Extended Soak: Fill the reservoir with a mixture of water and a small amount of lemon juice. Let it sit for 4 hours without running the machine. This allows the citric acid to break down any remaining factory oils on the internal seals.

Heads Up

• Avoid Aromatic Cleaners: Never use scented dish soaps or heavy descalers, as the porous nature of the nugget ice mechanism can absorb these scents, leading to "soapy" tasting ice for weeks.
• Filter Your Water: To prevent the "weird" taste from returning due to calcium buildup, always use a Brita or similar filtered pitcher to fill the reservoir.
• Weekly Maintenance: Run the self-cleaning cycle once every 7-10 days to prevent biofilm buildup, which can mimic a chemical taste.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not place the Kismile unit in direct sunlight. UV rays can heat the plastic chassis and intensify the "new plastic" smell during the first month of operation.