4 Commercial Ice Machine Maintenance Tips

How to Care for Your Commercial Ice Machine

1. Clean the Filters

If your machine uses an air filter for cooling, replace the filter at least once every six months. A dirty filter prevents airflow, causing your system to consume more energy as it works to keep water cool. If your system uses an external filter to purify incoming water, clean or replace it to ensure your customers enjoy healthy, better-tasting ice.

Many ice machines create flaked ice by passing it through a rotating steel blade called an auger. Over time, the bearings that hold the auger in place and let it rotate freely may become loose, misadjusted, or worn. At least once a year, have the bearings and fasteners inspected and tightened. It's a good idea to have the blade inspected, too, for dullness or damage. Older systems are more likely to require ice machine repair as the components age.

3. Sanitize the Water System

As your machine produces ice, minerals in the water such as calcium will separate and form a scaly buildup in the water intake system. Waterborne algae spores may also accumulate, posing a risk to your machine and the health of your customers. Eventually, these substances can trap ice on the evaporator plate and render your ice machine inoperable.

To avoid this issue, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and sanitizing the water system. Clean the storage bin and flush the system before putting the machine back into use. Throw out any ice present during the cleaning, as it may be contaminated.

4. Wipe Down the Exterior

Lastly, your machine should look clean and presentable for your customers’ peace of mind. Use a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning agent to wipe away any grime or staining from the exterior and the storage bin.

For all your ice machine repair and commercial refrigeration needs, you can count on Freddy's AC & Refrigeration in Phoenix, AZ. These experts offer high-quality work at affordable rates for businesses throughout the area. Visit them online for more information about their services, or call (623) 755-7471 to request a quote.