Summit Appliance · Winterization
Winterize a Summit Outdoor Icemaker or Refrigerator
Any refrigeration or icemaker left running in freeze conditions risks water-line rupture and sealed-system damage. Summit's outdoor rating covers weather exposure — NOT sub-freezing operation.
By Reed · Updated November 10, 2026
What you need
- Compressed air (optional)
- Owner's manual
- Bucket + towels
Step by step
Turn the icemaker off at the control panel
Before touching the water line, switch the icemaker OFF. Running the pump dry will burn the pump motor.
Shut off the water supply valve
The supply valve is typically a saddle-tap or 1/4-turn ball valve on the water feed line to the icemaker. Close it before disconnecting anything.
Disconnect the supply line + drain remaining water
Over a bucket, loosen the supply fitting and let the line drain. For gravity-drain icemakers, also open the drain plug. Pump-equipped units (PUMP suffix) will drain through the pump line.
Cycle the pump manually (if equipped) to clear remaining water
PUMP-suffix models have a manual drain cycle in the service menu — consult the owner's manual. Run until no water exits the drain line.
Unplug the unit from the outlet
After draining, unplug. Leave the door propped slightly open to prevent mildew in the cavity over winter.
Optional: cover with a breathable outdoor cover
Summit sells breathable covers for its outdoor line — a plastic tarp traps moisture and accelerates stainless pitting. Use a breathable fabric cover.
Common mistakes
- Leaving the unit running 'because it's inside a bubble cover'. A bubble cover slows cold ingress but does not prevent it. Any freeze event ruptures the water line. Disconnect, drain, unplug.
- Pouring antifreeze down the drain line. RV antifreeze is for potable-water lines (RV + boat). Do NOT pour automotive antifreeze into the icemaker drain — the residue contaminates the ice production.
Hands-on tips
- Take a photo of the connections before disconnecting — spring re-connect goes faster with a reference.
- Note the date of winterization in the cloud; running in March vs April matters.
Questions people ask
Can I keep the fridge running if I move it to a heated garage?
Yes — move the unit to an ambient above 50°F and it runs normally. Summit outdoor units function fine indoors; the 'outdoor' rating is additive to the indoor spec.
If I live in a zone that never freezes, do I need to winterize?
No — zone 9b/10a Summit owners typically run year-round. The winterization steps are only required when ambient will go below freezing.
Was this guide helpful?
Shopping for Summit Appliance?
See Summit Appliance products