If you run a food and beverage establishment, ice machines are essential appliances for your day-to-day operations. A clean commercial ice machine ensures you’re able to provide your guests with quality ice that both looks and tastes good. Regular cleaning is so important to the function of this machine, but many people who own or run restaurants forget to give them the attention they deserve. Keep your Delaware customers happy by following these seven steps to properly clean your ice machine.
Remove the ice
The first step in cleaning an ice machine is removing all the ice from the dispenser. First, wait for the end of the harvest cycle before turning the power switch off. You’ll know when the cycle is complete when you hear the batch of ice falling from the evaporators. When you turn off the power, the ice in the bin will gradually melt, completely emptying the machine.
Start the cleaning cycle
Once the ice bin is empty, hit the “wash” or “clean” button on your unit to start the cleaning cycle. You’ll need to wait around one minute for the water trough to refill, then add your ice machine cleaner when the display on your unit indicates that it’s time to add chemicals. Consult your owner’s manual and add the recommended amount of cleaner to the unit.
Complete the clean cycle
It typically takes 20 minutes or more for an ice machine to complete a clean cycle. Disconnect the power to the machine once the clean cycle is complete.
Remove internal components
Be sure your unit is completely disconnected from power before removing the internal components of your machine for cleaning. Again, check your owner’s manual to learn how to remove these components safely.
Clean internal components
Once all internal components are removed, mix a solution of lukewarm water and cleaner. Follow the ratio of water to cleaner specified in your owner’s manual. Most manufacturers recommend a water to cleaner ratio of one gallon to 16 ounces, but you might find that you need to add more cleaner if there’s excess mineral buildup on the components.
Use half of the cleaner mixture to clean each component. When the solution comes in contact with mineral deposits, you’ll notice foam developing as the solution works its magic. After the foaming stops, carefully clean each piece with a sponge, cloth or nylon brush and then rinse with clean water.
Clean all other surfaces
Use the other half of your cleaning solution and a cloth to clean all other parts of the machine, including the side walls, base, evaporator parts and the entire ice bin.
Do a final rinse
Make sure to thoroughly rinse everything once more with clean water to ensure that all chemicals are removed. You’ll have safer, better-tasting ice.
Restaurant owners and operators Delaware have a lot on their minds, and cleaning a commercial ice machine typically isn’t high on the to-do list. You owe it to your customers to keep this vital piece of equipment clean. Contact Commercial Equipment Service Inc. to assist you with cleaning your commercial ice machine, ensuring a safe and pleasant dining experience for your guests.