Before you start a cleaning cycle, you need to choose your weapon: a descaling solution. The two main choices are white vinegar or a dedicated descaler, often based on citric acid. Vinegar, a dilute solution of acetic acid, is inexpensive and readily available. It effectively dissolves mineral buildup but its acidic nature can be aggressive on certain plastics and rubber seals over long-term, repeated use.

Commercial descalers, like GE's official solution, are formulated with milder acids like citric or sulfamic acid. These are designed to target mineral scale without degrading the machine's internal components. While they cost more, they offer a safer, more balanced approach to maintenance.

To ensure your chosen cleaning agent works at full strength, you must completely drain the Opal before starting. Diluting the solution with leftover water will significantly reduce its effectiveness in the descaling process.

At the back of the unit, you'll find two hoses secured with a clip. Unhook them and place the ends into a sink or bucket. Remove the small plugs from the end of each hose. One drains the main water reservoir, while the other empties the internal mechanisms where ice is made. Let gravity do the work until water stops flowing from both tubes. This might take a few minutes.

Once the unit is empty, securely replace the plugs on the drain hoses and clip them back into place. Now you can prepare the cleaning mixture according to the manufacturer's instructions, whether you're using vinegar or a commercial descaler, and pour it into the water reservoir.

This is also the perfect time to clean the ice bin. Slide it out completely and wash it with warm, soapy water. The bin doesn't circulate water, so it doesn't need descaling, but regular sanitation prevents mildew and odor buildup. Rinse it thoroughly and dry it before placing it back in the machine.

With the unit drained and the ice bin sanitized, you're ready to begin the cleaning cycle.