Is Your LG Craft Ice Maker Making Salty-Tasting Spheres Too? Seeking Fixes!

Oh man, that's super frustrating when you're shelling out for those fancy ice spheres and they taste off. You're definatly not alone in this, and that 'metallic' or 'super mineral-y' taste you're describing is a pretty common complaint, often tied to the same issues that cause the 'salty' flavor people mention. The core of the problem with craft ice, versus your regular cubes, realy comes down to how it's made. Those slow-freezing spheres actually push all the impurities and minerals from your water to the outer layers as they form. So, if your tap water has a higher mineral content – even if it tastes fine normally or your regular ice maker handles it – those craft ice spheres are essentially concentrating all that 'stuff' into the ice you're putting in your drink. It's like a mineral magnet, and that white film people talk about seeing in the molds? That's exactly it.

You've already done some great troubleshooting steps, expecially changing the filter and cleaning the bin. When you changed the filter, did you make sure it was seated *perfectly*? Sometimes even a tiny gap can mean it's not filtering as effectively. Also, even after fixing the source, it can take quite a few batches – I'm talking 5 to 10 full cycles – for the lines and the mold itself to completely flush out the old mineral residue. Don't give up if the first batch or two still tastes a bit off. Here's a specific test: try running a few batches using **purified bottled water**. If those spheres come out tasting perfectly clear and fresh, then you've pinpointed the issue: your home's water quality and its interaction with the craft ice maker. If that's the case, you might consider an external water filter specifically designed to handle hard water, or just keep a stash of purified water for your craft ice needs. Also, take a really close look at the craft ice mold itself for any visible white film or residue that might have built up over time and is clinging to the mold. If, after all that, it's still tasting bad, it might be time to consider what others have mentioned. LG has acknowledged issues with earlier craft ice makers and mineral buildup. It's not uncommon for them to provide a replacement unit because they've actually updated the mold design in newer versions to be less prone to this problem. So, if you do end up calling for service, be sure to mention all the steps you've taken and that you're aware of the updated ice maker designs. Hope this helps you get back to perfectly clear, delicious spheres soon!

Wow, thanks for such a thorough explanation! It totally makes sense about how the slow freezing could concentrate all the minerals. I never even considered that difference between the regular cubes and the craft ice.

I'm definitly going to try the purified bottled water test this weekend, that's a super smart idea! If that works, it makes me wonder though, if my water is the issue, do people ussually have to clean the craft ice mold itself more often, even if they switch to better water? Or is just using the purified water enugh to keep the minerals from building up again?

Hey, awesome breakdown! Totally makes sense about those spheres being mineral magnets. If the purified water test confirms it's your home's water, you might want to consider testing your tap water's actual hardness level. You can get cheap strips online. Knowing that number helps you decide on the right long-term solution, wheather it's a dedicated filter for hard water or if you want to get serious and look into a whole-house softener.

Also, for anyone else reading this, I've had some luck with a white vinegar rinse in the ice maker's reservoir (not the actual mold, but the water tank if it's accessible and safe per manual!) to combat mild mineral buildup when doing a deep clean. Always check your manual first, of course, but it can help break down some of that crud.

Hey, totally get the frustration! I had a similar super-mineral-y issue with my old coffee machine, not ice, but the taste was just *off*. If the purified water test confirms it's your home's water, you might seriously consider a whole-house water softener if you don't allready have one. It made a huge difference for us not just with the coffee, but also showerheads and general appliance longevity. It's a bigger investment, but can prevent these kinds of headaches long-term. Also, curious if you use the craft ice maker constantly or if there are long breaks between uses? Sometimes that can affect things too.