Have you noticed a funky smell coming from your ice? If your Whirlpool refrigerator ice taste bad, it could be due to a dirty water filter or even issues with your home’s water supply. Getting rid of the odors isn’t hard with our troubleshooting steps!
Here’s What Makes Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Taste Bad
Common causes for bad-tasting ice in a Whirlpool refrigerator include:
- Dirty Refrigerator Water Filter
- Unsealed or Spoiled Food in Freezer
- Mold Build Up
- Dirty Ice Bin or Dispenser
- Issues with Water Supply
Change the Refrigerator Water Filter
To get to the bottom of bad-tasting ice in your Whirlpool fridge, start by checking the water filter. It should be replaced every six months or when it gets clogged. If you’re not sure when the filter was last replaced, it’s a good idea to replace it now.
Check for Unsealed or Spoiled Food
One of the main reasons for bad-tasting ice in a Whirlpool fridge is spoiled or unsealed food in the freezer. Food that’s not properly sealed or has gone bad can release strong odors, which the ice can absorb like a sponge. Look for any signs of spoilage, such as mold, discoloration, or a funky smell. Check for unsealed packages or containers that may release odors into the freezer. If you spot any spoiled or unsealed food, get rid of it right away and dispose of it properly. Clean the freezer with a solution of warm water and mild detergent, and dry it thoroughly. This will help eliminate any lingering odors and ensure that the ice produced is fresh and free of any bad taste or smell.
Check for Mold Build Up
To check for mold build-up, give the bin and the ice maker a good once-over, looking for any signs of mold or discoloration. Pay special attention to the corners and crevices of the ice maker, as that’s where mold loves to hide.
If you spot any mold, use a solution of one part vinegar to three parts water to clean the ice maker and bin. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to gently scrub the inside of the bin and the ice maker, making sure to eliminate all visible mold. Rinse the ice maker and bin thoroughly with clean water and dry them with a towel. Replace the bin one it’s been cleaned and dried.
Clean Ice Dispenser and Bin
Even if you don’t find mold, it’s always a good idea to clean the ice dispenser and bin routinely. Keeping the ice bin and dispenser clean is crucial to ensure that the ice produced is fresh and free of any bad odor or taste. Clean them at least once a month or more frequently if you notice any build-up or discoloration.
Step-by-step instructions on how to clean a Whirlpool refrigerator ice bin and dispenser:
- Take the ice bin out of the fridge, which may need to be released from a locking mechanism at the top. Gently pull the bin out and place it on a flat surface.
- Dump the ice into a trash bag or container.
- Clean the bin with a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to gently scrub the inside of the bin, making sure to get rid of any visible dirt or stains.
- Rinse the bin thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a towel.
- Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the exterior of the dispenser.
- Next, dry the dispenser with a towel, then reattach the cleaned ice bin to the refrigerator.
- Throw out the first batch of ice and check for any remaining odor or taste issues.
Check Water Supply
Double-check that you’re using one of the recommended water supply lines to make sure your water supply isn’t causing the bad-tasting ice in your Whirlpool fridge. Whirlpool suggests using copper or a supply line they approve of. Depending on the type of supply line and water supply, it could cause a funky taste in your refrigeration water and ice systems. If you suspect the water supply is the problem, you may need to call a plumber to have it inspected.
Tips for Preventing Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Taste Bad
- Regularly clean the inside of the fridge and freezer, including the door seal, to keep it fresh and odor-free.
- Keep the door of the freezer and fridge closed as much as possible to prevent warm air from entering the unit.
- Consider using a deodorizer, such as baking soda, to keep the interior fresh.
If you continue having issues with bad-tasting ice in your Whirlpool refrigerator, don’t hesitate to call the Whirpool refrigerator repair experts at Apex Appliance. We’re here to help!
