Frigidaire Ice Maker

Frigidaire Ice Maker EFIC117-SS

The Frigidaire Ice Maker EFIC117-SS, EFIC108, and EFIC118 user manual covers setup, operation, ice-size selection, indicator lights, cleaning, electrical safety, and common troubleshooting for these portable countertop ice makers.

The appliance uses an automatic ice-making system. The user adds water to the reservoir, selects either small or large ice, and starts the machine. Warning lights indicate when more water is needed or when the ice basket is full.

Product Overview

These Frigidaire portable ice makers are designed for countertop or tabletop use. The machine automatically pumps water from its reservoir into an ice tray beneath the evaporator fingers. Ice forms on the evaporator, releases into the basket, and the machine begins another cycle.

Users can select between small and large ice sizes from the control panel. The first ice-making cycle takes approximately 8 to 13 minutes, depending on the selected ice size. Frigidaire-Ice-Maker

The ice maker is not a freezer. Frigidaire specifically states that it is not designed to keep ice permanently frozen, so finished ice should be moved to a freezer when long-term storage is required.

Parts and Components

The diagram on page 4 of the official manual identifies the main exterior and interior parts of the ice maker.

Control Panel and Indicator Lights

The control panel includes three main indicator lights, two ice-size indicators, and two operating buttons.

Add Water Light

The Add Water indicator comes on when the reservoir no longer has enough water for another ice-making cycle. The machine stops automatically until water is added.

Ice Full Light

The Ice Full indicator lights when the basket reaches its capacity. Ice production then stops automatically. Removing ice from the basket allows production to continue.

Small and Large Ice Settings

Pressing Select changes between:

• S — Small ice
• L — Large ice

The corresponding indicator stays lit for the selected size.

Technical and Operating Information

The electrical instructions call for at least a 15-amp, 110-115-volt, 60 Hz grounded outlet.

The cover displays 26 lbs / 12 kg, but the manual text shown here does not define the time period or measurement basis for that figure. For that reason, it should not be described as a daily production rating unless another official product specification confirms it.

Important Safety Instructions

The ice maker is an electrical refrigeration appliance and should be operated only as described in the manual.

Important precautions include:

• Read the instructions before use.
• Do not immerse the appliance, plug, or power cord in water or other liquid.
• Unplug the ice maker when it is not being used and before cleaning or servicing.
• Do not operate the machine with a damaged plug or cord.
• Repairs should be performed by an authorized service representative.
• Do not use the ice maker outdoors.
• Keep the power cord away from hot surfaces.
• Do not place the unit near a hot burner or heated oven.
• Do not leave the ice maker unattended during operation.
• Use an exclusive grounded 3-prong outlet.
• Do not clean the machine with flammable liquids.
• Do not touch the evaporator while ice is being produced because its surface can injure the skin.

Flammable Refrigerant Warning

The appliance uses a flammable refrigerant.

The refrigerant tubing must not be punctured, and mechanical devices should not be used to defrost the ice maker. Refrigeration-system repairs should be performed only by trained service personnel.

Grounding Requirements

The ice maker uses a 3-wire power cord with a grounding plug.

It must be connected to a properly installed and grounded outlet. Modifying or defeating the grounding feature can create an electric-shock hazard.

Extension Cord Use

Frigidaire advises against using an extension cord because it can overheat.

If an extension cord must be used:

1. It must be a 3-wire grounding extension cord.
2. Its electrical rating must equal or exceed the appliance rating.
3. It should be positioned so children cannot pull it and so it does not create a trip hazard.

Disconnect Power Before Cleaning

Turning the ice maker off with the ON/OFF control does not disconnect it from electrical power.

The unit should be unplugged before cleaning or maintenance.

Before First Use

Correct positioning is important before the first ice-making cycle.

Position the Ice Maker Correctly

The machine should be placed on a:

• Stable surface
• Level surface
• Dry surface
• Well-ventilated location

Keep it away from ovens, heaters, corrosive gases, and other heat sources.

Leave approximately 8 inches of open space around all sides for ventilation.

Keep the Ice Maker Upright

During transportation or operation, the cabinet should not be tilted more than approximately 45 degrees.

The ice maker should never be turned upside down because this can affect the compressor and refrigeration system.

Wait After Moving the Ice Maker

The English section of the official manual instructs the user to wait 2 hours after the appliance has been leveled and positioned before first use so the compressor fluids can settle.

Document note: The French translation later in the same PDF states a 10-hour waiting period instead of two hours. It also gives a two-minute compressor delay where the English section states three minutes. This article follows the English-language section rather than combining the conflicting values.

Use Cool or Room-Temperature Water

Do not fill the reservoir with hot water.

The manual recommends water at approximately room temperature or cooler.

How to Set Up the Frigidaire Ice Maker

Before starting ice production:

1. Check that the drain plug underneath the front of the machine is closed.
2. Check that the water tube screen is installed.
3. Plug the ice maker into the wall outlet.
4. The green power indicator should blink approximately once every five seconds.
5. Open the cover.
6. Remove the ice basket.
7. Fill the water reservoir.
8. Do not fill above the MAX water-level mark.
9. Put the ice basket back in place.
10. Close the cover.

How to Use the Frigidaire Ice Maker

1. Turn the Ice Maker On

Press the Power button.

The green power indicator should stay illuminated.

2. Select the Ice Size

Press Select until the indicator next to the preferred size lights up.

Choose:

• S for small ice
• L for large ice

3. Allow the Ice-Making Cycle to Run

The first cycle usually takes approximately 8 to 13 minutes, depending on the selected ice size.

During the cycle:

1. Water is pumped into the water tray below the evaporator fingers.
2. Ice forms on the evaporator fingers.
3. The tray tilts backward after freezing.
4. Remaining water drains back into the reservoir.
5. Ice releases from the evaporator fingers.
6. The ice shovel pushes the cubes into the basket.
7. The water tray moves back under the evaporator.
8. The next cycle begins automatically.

Initial Compressor Delay

When the unit is first switched on or during the ice-making process, the English instructions state that the compressor may remain idle for about three minutes while the machine energizes.

What to Do When the Ice Basket Is Full

When the basket becomes full:

1. The Ice Full indicator comes on.
2. Ice production stops.
3. Open the cover.
4. Use the ice scoop to remove ice.
5. Close the cover.

The manual says the machine can restart after the basket is emptied and the cover is closed. It also specifically instructs the user to wait three minutes and press the Power button when restarting the ice-making function.

What to Do When the Add Water Light Comes On

When the reservoir runs out of usable water:

1. The Add Water indicator lights.
2. The ice-making cycle stops automatically.
3. Press the Power button once.
4. Remove the ice basket.
5. Add water to the reservoir.
6. Do not exceed the MAX line.
7. Replace the ice basket.
8. Close the cover.
9. Wait three minutes.
10. Press the Power button to restart ice production.

How Long Can Ice Stay in the Frigidaire Ice Maker?

The manual states that ice may remain in the machine for up to approximately 18 hours, depending on ambient temperature. However, the ice maker is not designed to function as a freezer.

For longer storage, finished ice should be transferred to a freezer.

The manual also instructs users to remove all ice and drain the water after use.

How to Stop the Ice Maker

When ice production is finished:

1. Press the Power button to stop the cycle.
2. Unplug the ice maker from the wall.
3. Open the cover.
4. Let the unit return to room temperature.
5. Clean and drain the machine before storage or extended non-use.

Care and Cleaning

Regular cleaning helps keep the reservoir, ice basket, water path, and interior free from residue.

How to Clean the Frigidaire Ice Maker

1. Press the Power button to stop ice production.
2. Make sure the green power indicator goes out.
3. Unplug the appliance.
4. Let the unit warm to room temperature.
5. If the water tray is not vertical behind the evaporator fingers, gently move it back so water drains into the reservoir.
6. Open the drain plug and drain the remaining water.
7. Remove the ice basket.
8. Remove the water tube screen.
9. Rinse the screen under running water.
10. Wipe the interior using a soft cloth dampened with warm water and vinegar.
11. Wipe again with a clean damp cloth.
12. Reinstall the drain plug and water tube screen.
13. Wash the ice basket and scoop in warm, soapy water.
14. Rinse and dry the basket and scoop.
15. Wipe the exterior with a soft damp cloth. Mild dishwashing soap may be used if needed.

Do Not Clean the Evaporator Fingers

The manual specifically states:

Do not clean the evaporator fingers.

Frigidaire Ice Maker Troubleshooting

The official troubleshooting table covers the most common indicator-light and ice-production problems.

Add Water Light Is On

A lit Add Water indicator means the water level is too low or the reservoir is empty.

Add water and the machine should resume operation according to the operating procedure.

No Lights on the Control Panel

If nothing appears on the control panel, check that the power plug is connected to the electrical outlet.

Ice Full and Add Water Lights Are On Together

When both indicators illuminate at the same time, the manual lists several possible causes:

• Electrical power surge
• Air in the lines
• Blocked lines
• Water-level detection problem
• Ice blocking the ice pusher

Frigidaire recommends turning the unit off, unplugging it, filling the reservoir if required, reconnecting power, and restarting.

If necessary, remove the drain cap and drain a small amount of water before trying again.

If ice is blocking the pusher, turn the machine off and allow the ice to melt before restarting.

Ice Full Light Stays On

If the Ice Full indicator is lit, remove ice from the storage basket. The machine needs available basket space before it can continue producing ice.

Frigidaire Ice Maker Does Not Operate

Possible causes include:

• No electrical power
• Ambient temperature is too high
• Water temperature is too high

The troubleshooting section directs users to connect the machine to a standard 110/120 V, 60 Hz power source and operate the ice maker in temperatures below 90°F, or use colder water in the reservoir.

Ice Is Blocking the Machine

If ice production takes too long and ice freezes into a blockage:

1. Turn the machine off.
2. Wait for the ice blockage to melt.
3. Restart the machine.

The manual also suggests changing the ice-size selection to small.

Ice Maker Runs but Does Not Produce Ice

If the ice-making cycle appears normal but no ice forms, the manual lists:

• Refrigerant leakage
• A blocked pipe in the cooling system

This condition should be handled by a qualified technician or Customer Service.

Storage After Use

The appliance should not be left with standing water and old ice when it will not be used.

After finishing:

1. Stop ice production.
2. Unplug the machine.
3. Remove remaining ice.
4. Let the appliance reach room temperature.
5. Drain the remaining water.
6. Clean the reservoir, basket, scoop, and interior as directed.
7. Allow cleaned parts to dry before extended storage.

The manual’s cover specifically instructs users to remove the ice cubes and drain the water after use because the appliance is not designed for frozen storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you use a Frigidaire countertop ice maker?

Close the drain plug, check the water tube screen, fill the reservoir without exceeding the MAX line, replace the ice basket, close the cover, press Power, and use Select to choose small or large ice. The first cycle normally takes about 8-13 minutes.

How long does a Frigidaire ice maker take to make ice?

The official manual states that the first ice-making cycle takes approximately 8 to 13 minutes, depending on the selected ice size.

What does the Add Water light mean on a Frigidaire ice maker?

It means the water level is too low or the reservoir has run out of water. Add water without filling above the MAX line, then follow the restart instructions.

Why is the Ice Full light on?

The Ice Full indicator means the storage basket has reached its ice capacity. Remove ice from the basket so the machine can continue production.

Why are the Add Water and Ice Full lights on at the same time?

The manual lists a possible electrical surge, air or blockage in the lines, a water-level detection problem, or ice blocking the pusher. Power cycling, checking the water level, draining a small amount of water, or allowing blocked ice to melt may resolve the problem.

How do you clean a Frigidaire portable ice maker?

Turn the machine off, unplug it, drain the water, remove the basket and water tube screen, rinse the screen, and wipe the interior with warm water and vinegar. Wash the basket and scoop separately with warm soapy water. The evaporator fingers should not be cleaned.

Can the Frigidaire ice maker keep ice frozen?

No. The manual states that the machine is not designed to keep ice frozen. Finished ice should be transferred to a freezer for long-term storage.

Why is my Frigidaire ice maker running but not making ice?

If the cycle appears normal but no ice is produced, the manual lists a possible refrigerant leak or blockage in the cooling system. A qualified technician or Customer Service should inspect the appliance.