Key Elements of Ice Machine Maintenance

There are four key elements to keeping your ice machine running effectively: quality and adequate water supply, proper filtration, operating environment and cleanliness. All four of these elements contribute to quality ice production.

If your ice machine is not operating at its full potential it may be due to a water supply issue. Up to 70% of ice machine problems can be traced to poor water quality, slow water fill, insufficient water supply, or no water supply. Water is a critical factor for an ice machine to perform at peak efficiency. So simply put, the better the quality of the water, the better the quality of the ice product.

Nearly all ice machine manufacturers will recommend that end users install water filters on their ice machines. Without a water filter, poor water quality can cause ice cubes to stick on evaporators during the harvest sequence, resulting in freeze-up or even failure of major components. A good quality commercial-grade filter is well worth the investment.

The location of your ice machine can greatly impact performance. An ice machine’s operating environment can vary greatly in different areas of the country as well as within individual applications. For example, an ice machine that is located near an oven will likely operate at a different level than an ice machine that is located in the front of the house. Also, it is important to consider how kitchen elements such as grease, high levels of steam or heat, as well as dust from flour or baking ingredients may affect your ice machine’s performance. Specialized filters are available to help you combat many of these environmental factors.

Even an ice machine operating with the best water and in ideal environmental conditions will need to be cleaned and sanitized at least twice a year. In those applications where water and air quality is less than ideal, ice machines must be cleaned more frequently. The cleaning and sanitizing process for an ice machine should include circulating a cleaning solution through the water system to remove buildup, as well as to sanitize. All water-related components in the machine should be cleaned including the evaporator.

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Crush, cubed or shaved, ice is a crucial part of any foodservice operation. Commercial ice machines work overtime to produce the best results, keeping your customers’ glasses chilled and fresh food iced. The best thing you can do to ensure reliable performance is to pay attention to the maintenance needs of your ice machine.

Controlling the temperature of the water flowing into ice-making equipment is crucial. The lower the water temperature, the greater the ice-making capacity of your machine will be. Generally, temperatures should never exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember that drinking water must be used when making ice for consumption or food chilling and ice that is used to chill food or beverages should never be used as an ingredient.

Commercial ice machines require regular cleaning. You can save yourself some work by purchasing a model with Pure Ice antimicrobial protection built in to prevent bacteria and slime fungus growth. Frequently check your ice machine to make sure all wires are secure and keep the lines clean by purging them with water. A commercial ice machine cleaning solution will remove scale deposits from ice machines that use nickel or tin-plated evaporators.

Water filters that prevent mineral buildups, such as the Everpure water filter system, reduce the necessity for frequent cleanings. Taste can also be enhanced with the purchase of a filtration system that works to remove dirt, rust and sediment. The filter system also increases energy efficiency of your ice machine.

Ice should always be stored in a clean, sanitized bin. Over time the ice bin can absorb difficult-to-remove odors from the freezer. Serv-U recommends that you replace your ice bin whenever it seems to be transferring impurities to your cubes.

 Ice scoops can also be a culprit in making your ice impure. Store ice scoops outside of the ice machine in a protected holder. Serv-U offers a variety of ice scoops and scoop/holder combinations. Use the scoop to clear out your bin. Never let half frozen ice take up permanent residence in your ice bin!

Remember that cleaning out ice machines is a time-consuming task that requires the storage bin to be emptied. Foodservice operators should make sure a service agency will properly handle this. With these safeguarding tips you can make your ice machine more efficient, requiring less frequent service. Practice regular maintenance to keep this crucial piece of restaurant equipment producing quality cubes!