When purchasing an ice machine, you should not think that it is all about advantages and benefits. From time to time, even if you do not like it, you have to take care of it. Cleaning the ice machine means keeping away the dirt, the dust, and impurities. To provide you with the best quality ice, you need to do regular check ups so as to keep it in a perfect condition.

Consider cleaning it at least every six months if not more often. In case the water quality is poor, you should certainly do the cleaning more often. Furthermore, if noticing any change in the consistency or color of the ice cubes, clean the ice device right away. On TopIceMakerReviews.com you will find relevant information about ice making machines. The articles will help you learn which are the best ones on the market. Here, you will also find out which are the most important features to look for before purchasing your own unit.

In what follows, we will provide you with advice on how to properly clean the ice making machine to make sure it properly functions. If you have lost your device’s manual and you can no longer see the cleaning instructions, here is the information you need.

1.   Clean and Sanitize

The ice in the machine forms on an ice machine evaporator plate. When this occurs, a separation happens. Minerals separate from the water, forming scale. This sticks to the water system components’ surface. The scale becomes visible when the surface is dry. The type of minerals influences the color of the scale. To clean the scale, you could use any commercial machine cleaner you find on the market. However, you need to make sure you are mixing the right amount of cleaner with sufficient water. Pay attention to the material from which the ice machine is made of in order to prevent its damage. The sanitizer is meant to eliminate the bacteria and it can also stop its further development. Sanitize the unit after you clean it and your ice machine will work properly.

2.   Inspect

Do not waste your time while waiting for the cleaning solution to do its job. Make sure you clean the condenser and the air filter in the meantime. Furthermore, also inspect the inlet water valve screen to see whether there is any restriction. You should also clean the fan blades of the condenser. In case the condenser coil is covered with dirt, grime or grease, purchase a non-corrosive cleaner and then rinse the surface with water. Try to do this more often in case the coil of the condenser is subjected to outside elements. Pay attention to other components of the ice machine, like the electrical components and the control box. This way, you will know whether something goes wrong with the connections.

3.   Cleaning Flakers

Flakers generate ice inside or on an evaporator cylinder. The unit breaks the ice and evacuates it from the cylinder via the use of a gear motor-driven auger. The flaker bearings permit the auger to spin and keep its positioning inside the evaporator cylinder. Therefore, the bearings wear off as the auger turns. You should regularly inspect the bearings, at least once per year. If your area does not use any water treatment, then you should inspect it even more often.

4.   Exterior Cleaning

You need to start by cleaning the area around the ice machine as often as necessary. This way, you will prevent bacteria from spreading and you will also maintain your unit’s efficient operation. Wipe the surfaces using a damp cloth rinsed with water. Hence, you will remove dirt and dust from the outside of the ice machine. Prevent using a brush or an abrasive pad because you might scratch the ice maker. If you find a greasy residue, make sure to rinse your damp cloth in a water and mild dish soap solution. Furthermore, search for the machine’s manual to see if there are any restrictions. There are certain nickel-plated ice makers which can be cleaned only by using nickel-safe solutions. Avoid using citrus-based, abrasive or chlorinated cleaners on the plastic trim and the exterior panels.

 

By following all these instructions, you will ensure your ice machine a long life. It will become one of your favorite kitchen appliances. When owning a portable ice maker, you might need to clean it even more often, depending on where you carry it. Make sure to use safe sanitizers and cleaning solutions to prevent any eventual damage. Perform periodical inspections to see whether everything is in order with the components of your ice maker. Keeping it clean all the time means obtaining high-quality ice cubes whenever you want.

photo via Deposit Photos

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