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Ask The Experts: How To Clean A Commercial Ice Machine? – Memphis Ice
Cleaning your ice maker should be a high priority to keep your kitchen running smoothly! Find out how to clean a commercial ice machine with these expert tips.
When was the last time your commercial ice machine got a good scrub? Cleaning your commercial ice machine may not seem like a high priority in running your business, but it’s actually a crucial step to keep your ice machine running smoothly!
If you’ve never cleaned your ice machine before, you’ll want to keep reading! You’ll learn how to clean an ice machine, why it’s important, and how often you should do it. Ready to gear up and get cleaning? Let’s go!
How To Clean A Commercial Ice Machine
How you’ll clean your ice maker will vary depending on the make, model, and vendor of your equipment. The cleaning process for a Manitowoc ice machine machine, for example, will look a little different from how to clean a Frigidaire ice maker, or even an Ice-O-Matic.
Regardless of brand or equipment type, following these universal guidelines should get you started on the right track to cleaning your commercial ice machine.
9 Steps For A Clean Ice Machine
1. Dispose of your ice
Before you start cleaning, go ahead and toss that old ice—even the ice that hasn’t been harvested. You won’t be able to finish the cleaning or sanitizing cycles if ice is still in the works.
To get rid of the existing ice, you can either unplug the ice machine and give the ice time to melt, or you can push the power button after the harvest cycle.
2. Press the button marked “clean” or “wash”
3. Add The Ice Machine Cleaner
4. Let The Clean Cycle Run
5. Check Your User Manual For Internal Components That Need to Be Removed
You’ll need to remove certain parts and ice machine components prior to cleaning to avoid damage to your equipment. The location and type of parts will vary depending on your ice machine brand and model, so keep that manual handy while you remove the components.
Related: It’s Time to Change Your Commercial Ice Machine Filter! Here’s How
6. Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
7. Clean The Removed Parts and Components
8. Scrub Down All FoodZone Surfaces
9. Rinse!
How Often Should A Commercial Ice Machine Be Cleaned?
“Plan to clean your commercial ice machine every six months, or twice a year.”
Stick to a regular cleaning schedule and you won’t have to worry about cloudy ice (a sign that your machine needs cleaning urgently), moldy ice , or buildup slowing down your machine’s ice production.
What Chemicals Can I Use To Clean My Commercial Ice Machine?
It’s always a good idea to use the cleaning supplies recommended by your machine’s manufacturer. This ensures your cleaning agent is working with the design of your machine and won’t cause damage.
At Memphis Ice, our technicians’ choice of ice machine cleaners are listed here, and include non-foaming and nickel-safe cleaners and sanitizers.