When you run a busy restaurant, you rely on your ice machine for everything from gracing patron’s glasses to helping you to store ingredients for future use. However, all too often, maintenance is overlooked, resulting in costly and time-consuming ice machine repairs. Here is a little more information about maintenance tasks to complete and why they help in the long run.

What Kind of Maintenance Should Be Performed?

Ice machines should be cleaned in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, which typically indicate to clean the appliance every 30, 60, or 90 days. During cleanings, the system needs to be shut down, unplugged, and completely emptied. The interior components of the ice maker should be cleaned with one part cleaning solution and three parts clean water.

Every component that touches ice needs to be sanitized, and the system needs to be able to air dry completely. Systems should also be cleaned thoroughly anytime glass is dropped around the holding bin since fragments could pose risks to patrons. Contact an ice machine repair professional if you need help deep cleaning your system.

Why Is Maintenance Crucial?

Ice machine cleaning helps prevent the buildup of limescale, calcium, and bacteria. Over time, if limescale and calcium aren’t removed, they can cling to the evaporator plates, making your system less productive and potentially changing the shape, taste, and sheen of the ice.

Slime molds can develop, as well, which could contaminate ice and put your food preparation and customers at risk. Routine maintenance also helps prevent extensive ice machine repairs, which could interrupt the normal function of your business.

If you run a restaurant and you are concerned about maintaining your ice machine, look no further than Dickerson's Commercial Refrigeration & HVAC. Based out of Lexington, KY, this trusted ice machine repair business can help with everything from full-service HVAC and refrigeration repairs to environmental refrigeration and emergency repairs. To find out more about how they can help, visit their website or call (859) 254-1436.