Ice machines are vital to your business. Whether you operate a bar, restaurant, hotel, or office, it’s important to maintain a clean unit for the safety of your patrons and staff. Neglecting the system could also raise red flags during a health inspection, so it’s essential to prioritize regular cleaning. Here are four tips to keep it as tidy as possible.

How to Maintain a Clean Ice Machine

1. Remove All Ice First

Don’t clean the unit until you’ve completely emptied all the ice. This may be as simple as removing it from the bin. But if ice is present on the evaporator, it will be necessary to run a manual harvest cycle. This facilitates drop-off, which forces the ice to slide off the component.

2. Push the Clean Button

The machine should be equipped with either a “wash” or “clean” button. Tap this button to initiate the cleansing cycle. This forces water through the dump valve and directs it into the drain. 

After approximately a minute, the water trough will refill, and the display will alert you to add the necessary cleaning agents. After doing this, the unit will commence cleaning for about 20 minutes. 

3. Wipe Down Internal Parts

After the cycle is complete, unplug the ice machine and the dispenser, if applicable. The internal parts can then be removed, including the dividers, ice rakes, and scoop caddies, along with other components that are detachable. Using a unit-friendly cleaning solution mixed with lukewarm water, wipe down each part and scrub away any surface debris or mineral scale with a soft brush.  

4. Clean the Machine Surfaces

Use the same cleaning solution to wipe down the ice machine’s surfaces, including the bin, walls, dispenser, base, and plastic evaporator housing. Once complete, rinse down all the areas you cleaned to prevent chemical contamination. 

If you're seeking a reliable provider for ice machines in Winston, GA, turn to the professionals at All 1 Service. They offer a variety of products and solutions to meet your vending needs, including maintenance and supplies. To find out more about their services, visit the website or call (770) 920-2140 to speak with a representative.