GE Ice Maker Error Code ADD CLEANER illuminated

The ADD CLEANER light means a clean cycle has been started but the water level sensor inside the reservoir has not detected any cleaning solution. The ice maker pauses the cycle and displays this alert until the reservoir is filled with the appropriate cleaner. Once the sensor detects the solution, the clean cycle will proceed automatically.

GE specifies Nickel Safe Icemaker Cleaner for a reason: the evaporator components in many GE ice makers have a nickel coating that can be damaged by acidic or incompatible descaling products. Using an unapproved cleaner risks corroding internal components and may void any applicable warranty. It is best to use only the recommended product.

A simple reset may cancel the active clean cycle and extinguish the indicator temporarily, but this does not address the underlying need for cleaning. If the machine requires a clean cycle, skipping or canceling it can lead to mineral and biofilm buildup over time that affects ice quality and machine performance. It is recommended to complete the full cleaning procedure rather than resetting to bypass the alert.

Pour GE Nickel Safe Icemaker Cleaner into the water reservoir as directed for your model. The water level sensor will detect the cleaning solution and the alert should clear, allowing the clean cycle to continue. If the indicator stays on after adding the cleaner, check that you used a sufficient volume and inspect the sensor probe for mineral scale buildup.

When the ADD CLEANER alert is active, the unit is in clean cycle mode and is not producing ice for consumption. You should not attempt to harvest ice during a clean cycle. Complete the cleaning process fully, including any required rinse cycles, before returning the machine to normal ice production.