Like any machinery or appliance, ice machines require regular care and maintenance to ensure they last a long time and continue to run efficiently. In today’s restaurant and entertainment industries, clean-tasting ice for soft drinks and other refreshments is in demand year round, regardless of the season, and a non-functioning ice machine means lost revenue.

Regular care is less expensive than a repair and goes a long way toward keeping your machine running smoothly. Below are some maintenance tips from Dickerson's Commercial Refrigeration & HVAC in Lexington, Kentucky, that will prolong the life of your ice machine and help you avoid a costly ice machine repair.

Clean Your Machines to Avoid an Ice Machine Repair 

An ice machine that isn’t cleaned regularly may take longer to produce large amounts of ice to meet customer demand. It can also cause calcium and magnesium to build up, which can affect the ice’s taste. The same buildup will adhere to the surface of evaporator plates, which may damage your machine.

Aside from costing you money for an ice machine repair, you will face downtime while the machine is serviced. Even more importantly, a lack of cleanliness can cause slime or mold to grow inside of your ice machine, which could place your business in violation of health codes and risk the health and well-being of your customers.

Your ice machine’s manufacturer manual should list a recommended timeline for regular cleaning. However, most machines require cleaning every 30, 60, or 90 days. Be cautious about having your machines cleaned frequently to ensure your equipment is clean, safe, and operating efficiently during times when the demand for ice is highest.

Replace Filter & Necessary Parts

Plan to replace the filter for your ice machine at least every six months to extend its life and avoid an unnecessary ice machine repair. If you replace the filters yourself and keep extra filters on hand, you’ll make this bi-annual task less time-consuming. A refrigeration and HVAC specialist can inspect various parts that commonly need replacement, including casters, water hoses, evaporators, or reservoirs.

Taking the time to resolve any issues as soon as they are apparent will go a long way toward keeping your machine in top shape. Contact Dickerson's Commercial Refrigeration & HVAC, for your ice machine maintenance and emergency repair needs. Call (859) 254-1436 to speak with one of their refrigeration specialists, or visit the website for more information about the services available.