the self cleaning light is flashing and now it won't make ice, how do i make it stop or run the cycle?

Diagnosis

The flashing "Clean" indicator on the Igloo Premium Self-Cleaning Countertop Ice Maker is a programmed maintenance alert. This is not a mechanical failure, but a software-driven lockout. The machine tracks total runtime and water cycles; once a specific threshold is reached (typically after several days of continuous use), the onboard controller triggers a mandatory cleaning reminder. Because mineral deposits from hard water—specifically calcium and magnesium—accumulate on the evaporator pins and inside the water pump, the machine disables the ice-making function to prevent scale buildup from damaging the motor or reducing ice clarity. You can confirm this is the issue if the machine is powered on and the water reservoir is full, but the "Clean" light is blinking and the cooling cycle refuses to initiate. The machine will remain in this "maintenance mode" until the internal timer is reset via a completed cleaning cycle.

How to Fix It

To resolve the lockout and restart ice production, you must manually trigger and complete the self-cleaning sequence. Follow these exact steps:

1. Empty the ice basket completely. Remove any remaining ice cubes and wipe the interior of the bin with a clean, damp cloth.
2. Fill the water reservoir to the "Max" fill line. For the most effective cleaning, replace 2 cups of the fresh water with distilled white vinegar. This acidity is required to break down the mineral scale on the internal components.
3. Ensure the machine is plugged in and the power switch is in the ON position.
4. Locate the "Clean" button on the control panel. Press and hold this button firmly for 5 to 8 seconds. You will notice the "Clean" light transition from a flashing state to a solid, steady light.
5. The machine will now enter the cleaning cycle. It will circulate the vinegar-water solution through the internal plumbing and over the evaporator pins. This process typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes depending on the ambient temperature.
6. Once the cycle is finished, the "Clean" light will turn off automatically.
7. Drain the vinegar solution from the reservoir by tilting the machine or using the drain plug at the bottom.
8. Rinse the reservoir with fresh water twice to remove any lingering vinegar scent before restarting normal ice production.

If That Didn't Work

• Hard Reset the Control Board: If the light continues to flash after the cycle, unplug the unit from the wall outlet for a full 10 minutes. This clears the volatile memory of the controller. Plug it back in and immediately attempt the "Clean" button hold again.
• Manual Scale Removal: If the cycle finishes but the light returns immediately, there may be a sensor obstruction. Use a soft bottle brush or a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar to gently scrub the metal evaporator pins (the "fingers" where ice forms). If these are coated in white chalky residue, the sensor may think the machine is still dirty.
• Check for Air Locks: If the machine is humming but not circulating water during the clean cycle, it may have an air lock in the pump. Gently shake the machine side-to-side while the cleaning cycle is active to help the pump prime and move the water.
• Inspect the Water Sensor: Ensure the water level sensor (the small probe in the reservoir) is not coated in slime or scale. Clean the probe with a toothbrush and vinegar to ensure the machine recognizes that water is present to perform the cycle.

Heads Up

• Use Distilled Water: To prevent the "Clean" light from appearing too frequently, use distilled or filtered water instead of tap water. This significantly reduces the mineral buildup that triggers the alert.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach or industrial descalers in the self-cleaning cycle. These can corrode the aluminum evaporator pins and contaminate your ice. Stick to white distilled vinegar.
• Weekly Rinsing: Even if the light isn't flashing, it is a best practice to run a fresh water rinse every 7 days to maintain the 26 lbs/24 hr production capacity.
• Ventilation Clearance: Ensure there are at least 6 inches of open space around the side vents. Overheating can sometimes cause the control board to glitch and trigger maintenance lights prematurely.