Your ice machine might seem like one of the more basic appliances you own. Making ice doesn’t sound too hard, right? Unfortunately, many owners of ice machines find that there are various ways for an ice machine to break down.
The good news is that many ice machines break because they haven’t been properly maintained, so you can take steps to keep yours in good working order. Familiarizing yourself with how to take care of your ice machine can extend the time you’ll be able to go between ice machine repairs in Delaware. Follow these tips to maintain and clean your ice machine:
- Always check your manual if you have one: No one gets very excited about checking the owner’s manual for any type of appliance, but it really will save you time and effort in maintaining your ice machine. Your manual should help you navigate the different components of the machine and may offer guidance for safe removal of any parts that need to be taken out for inspection and cleaning.
- Empty the ice from the machine before cleaning: It’s not sanitary or safe to leave ice in your machine while you’re using a solution to clean it. Every ice machine is different, but it’s usually easy and quick to remove the ice. Usually it’s easiest to allow some time for the ice to melt completely before you plan on cleaning.
- Soak the components that can be soaked: Removing the parts of the machine and giving them time to soak in a mixture of warm water and cleaning solution can help ensure a better clean. Soaking thoroughly removes mineral, lime and scale buildup from the components. Make sure to double-check your manual to determine which components can be safely soaked.
- Use clean water to rinse: Any components that you removed and cleaned using a chemical solution should be carefully rinsed with clean water. Without rinsing well enough, you could risk unsanitary contact between the ice and any remaining chemical residue. A good rule of thumb: If you’re sure it’s rinsed thoroughly, rinse one more time to be extra sure.
- Don’t forget about the outside: The outside of the machine also needs regular cleaning to remove dust, dirt and grime. Wipe the surface down with a damp, soft cloth or sponge. If you need a little extra muscle to remove buildup, you can use a bit of mild dish soap mixed with warm water. Just make sure you remove all soap with plain water afterwards.
We’re here if you need us
Regular maintenance can keep your machine working longer between repairs, saving you money and logistical headaches. If you’d like a primer on cleaning and maintaining your ice machine, or if your machine does need repairs, we’re here to help. The knowledgeable experts at Commercial Equipment Service have been making ice machine repairs in Delaware since 1984, and we’re available 24/7 to help you in a pinch. Get in touch with us today for help keeping your ice machine in great condition.