How to Winterize the Ice Maker on a GE Refrigerator

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Pliers

  • Bucket

  • Baking soda

  • Water

  • Sponge

  • Dry cloth

Winterizing a GE refrigerator is an important task when closing down a seasonal home or cabin. Leaving water in the supply line or tank of the refrigerator will cause damage to the unit. Winterizing the GE refrigerator will not take long, but draining and defrosting the ice maker may take a full day. Basic tools and cleaning supplies are required for the task of winterizing the ice maker.

Advertisement

Step 1

Shut off the water supply line to the refrigerator one day ahead of winterizing the ice maker. This will allow the ice to melt from the ice-making device.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Disconnect the water line going to the refrigerator using the pliers. Drain the water line into the bucket to remove all excess liquids.

Advertisement

Step 3

Remove all food from the freezer compartment and refrigerator. Empty all ice and water trays of liquid.

Step 4

Shut off the circuit breaker that supplies electricity to the refrigerator or unplug it from the wall outlet. Turn the interior control switch to off.

Advertisement

Step 5

Clean the interior surfaces of ice maker and freezer with a baking soda solution of 1 tbsp. baking soda to 1 qt. of water. Wipe dry.

Step 6

Leave an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator and leave the doors open.

Tip

If your GE refrigerator has a water dispenser, you must drain the tank located behind the meat and vegetable bins.

If you feel uncomfortable with winterizing your GE refrigerator, contact a certified technician to perform the task for you.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references