the self-clean light is flashing and it won't start an ice cycle, how do i get it out of this mode?

Diagnosis

The flashing self-clean indicator on the Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is a programmed safety lockout. This occurs when the internal timer reaches a specific threshold of operational hours (typically every 24 to 48 hours of active freezing) or when the sensors detect mineral buildup in the evaporator coil. The machine is designed to prevent the "nugget" ice from becoming contaminated by scale or biofilm, and it will intentionally disable the cooling compressor and auger motor until a cleaning cycle is successfully completed. You can confirm this is a software lockout rather than a mechanical failure if the "Clean" light is the only indicator flashing and the "Ice" or "Power" lights remain steady. If the machine is completely unresponsive to the start button but the clean light is blinking, the logic board has entered "Maintenance Mode," which overrides all standard ice-production commands to force a sanitization process.

How to Fix It

To exit this mode and resume ice production, you must execute a full automated cleaning cycle. Partial cycles or simply turning the machine off and on will not reset the timer.

1. Empty the ice basket completely. Remove any remaining nugget ice to ensure the internal sensors can detect the water flow without obstruction.
2. Fill the water reservoir precisely to the "MAX" line. Do not overfill, as this can cause leakage around the internal seals. For a deep clean, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of food-grade citric acid or a dedicated descaling solution to the water.
3. Ensure the machine is plugged into a grounded 110-120V outlet.
4. Locate the 'Clean' button on the control panel. Press and hold this button firmly for 3 to 5 seconds. You will hear a click from the solenoid valve as it opens to allow water into the freezing cylinder.
5. Allow the machine to run for the full 15-minute duration. The machine will cycle water through the evaporator and flush it into the drip tray. Do not interrupt the power or open the lid during this process.
6. Once the cycle completes, the flashing light will turn off automatically. Press the 'Power' button to restart the cooling process. The machine will typically take 5-10 minutes to reach the optimal temperature before the first batch of nugget ice drops.

If That Didn't Work

• Hard Power Reset: If the light continues to flash after a cycle, unplug the unit from the wall for exactly 10 minutes. This clears the volatile memory on the control board. Plug it back in and immediately attempt the 'Clean' hold sequence again.
• Sensor Obstruction: Check the water level sensor (the small metal probes in the reservoir). If there is a film of slime or mineral scale on these probes, the machine may "think" it is empty and abort the cleaning cycle, leaving the light flashing. Clean the probes gently with a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar.
• Drainage Blockage: Ensure the machine is perfectly level on the countertop. If the unit is tilted, the cleaning water may not drain efficiently, triggering a "water overflow" error that manifests as a flashing clean light. Use a bubble level to ensure the machine is flat.
• Air Lock Clearance: If you hear the pump humming but no water is moving during the clean cycle, there may be an air bubble in the line. Gently shake the machine while the clean cycle is active to dislodge the air pocket and allow water to flow.

Heads Up

• Water Quality: Always use filtered water. Using unfiltered tap water accelerates mineral buildup (calcium and magnesium), which causes the self-clean light to trigger more frequently and can eventually clog the small auger holes.
• Vinegar Warning: While white vinegar is a common cleaner, avoid using high concentrations of it too often, as the acetic acid can degrade the rubber gaskets over time. Citric acid is the preferred professional alternative.
• Dry-Run Danger: Never initiate a cleaning cycle if the reservoir is empty. Running the pump dry can cause permanent damage to the internal seals and lead to water leaks in the base of the machine.
• Frequency: Even if the light isn't flashing, run a manual clean cycle once every two weeks to maintain the "crunch" and flavor of the nugget ice.