KitchenAid Ice Maker CL Error: Cleaning Cycle Needed
What Does KitchenAid Ice Maker Error Code CL Mean? CL on a KitchenAid ice maker is a maintenance reminder, not a fault code. The control board tracks operating time since the last cleaning cycle, and when six months elapse, it illuminates a CL indicator or displays the CL message to prompt the user to run […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Yes. CL is a maintenance reminder, not a fault. Ice production continues normally and ice quality is still acceptable during the initial alert period. Clean at your convenience within the next few weeks.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Running a complete cleaning cycle clears CL automatically. No manual reset is needed.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Ice becomes visibly cloudy or oddly shaped despite the CL alert, Unusual taste or smell from produced ice.
Symptoms You May Notice
CL indicator illuminated on the control panel
A dedicated Clean LED or CL text message appears on the control display, usually alongside normal temperature information, as a persistent reminder.
Ice production continues normally
Unlike fault codes, CL does not interrupt normal operation — the ice maker continues producing ice on its regular schedule while the alert is active.
Gradual decrease in ice quality or quantity
If the cleaning alert is ignored for extended periods, ice cubes may become cloudier or smaller as mineral scale accumulates on the fill mechanism and cold plate.
Possible Causes
Six-month cleaning interval elapsed
The control board tracks operating time since the last cleaning cycle was run. When that time exceeds the manufacturer interval (typically six months), CL appears as a reminder.
DIY PossibleHigh mineral water accelerating scale buildup
Hard water or high-mineral well water accumulates scale faster than soft water, and the board may prompt cleaning more frequently as a result. Consider installing a water softener for households with very hard water.
DIY PossiblePrevious cleaning cycle did not complete correctly
If a prior cleaning cycle was interrupted or did not run its full duration, the board may still show CL because the cycle completion was not registered properly.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
-
1
Run the built-in cleaning cycle
Follow the owner manual procedure for your specific model — typically involves adding ice machine cleaner to the water reservoir and pressing the Clean button. The cycle takes one to two hours to complete. The CL alert clears automatically when the cycle finishes.
Use only nickel-safe ice machine cleaner (typically citric acid or phosphoric acid based) — never substitute household vinegar or bleach, which can damage the nickel-plated cold plate.
-
2
Discard the first batch of ice after cleaning
Once the cleaning cycle finishes and normal production resumes, discard the first one or two batches of ice to flush any residual cleaner from the system. After the flush batches, ice is safe for consumption.
Mark the date of cleaning on a calendar to track the six-month interval for the next scheduled cleaning.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Cleaning cycle fails to initiate on Clean button press
- Repeated CL alerts shortly after successful cleaning
- Mineral scale damage visible on the cold plate requiring deep cleaning
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
Ice Maker Repair Service Schedule Appointment