If you are an owner of a commercial business, you would want every piece of equipment in the kitchen to work flawlessly. Commercial ice machines are usually found at restaurants, hospitals, and other hospitality areas to offer a reliable supply of ice. But they can run into problems if not maintained well. So, you should know about different ice machine problems and their solutions and tips for preventing breakdowns in the future. Plus, get help from commercial appliances repair experts whenever needed.

Ice Machine Issues And Tips For Avoiding Them

Commercial Ice Machine Not Making Ice

Some issues with commercial ice machines tend to be unexpected and sudden. For instance, it is common for commercial ice machines to stop making ice without any reason at all. They might show no signs or symptoms and simply won’t come out no matter how hard you try.

In such a case, you should first check the power supply. It could be that someone has accidentally unplugged the wires while cleaning the area. Plus, you should also take a close look at the supplied chord to ensure there are no cracks or damages. This is especially the case if the machine happens to be old.

Since commercial kitchens tend to be packed with commercial equipment, it is possible for the wires to jingle up and crack with time. If you find the power supply cord burnt, cracked, or damaged, you will need to replace it. At the same time, check the power socket as well.

Sometimes, due to high voltage, the power socket tends to burn and won’t supply power to the unit. If that is the case, you will find burn marks that indicate the power socket needs replacement. But, if the power supply cord and the power socket seem fine but the machine is still not working, you should check the circuit breaker.

Ice Machine Producing Slush Or Thin Ice

Another common problem in commercial ice machines tends to be the thin production of ice or slush. It could take place due to a variety of reasons. The first thing you need to check is the water temperature. Make sure the water temperature is below 90 degrees Fahrenheit as hot water can prevent the formation of ice.

Electrical surges can blow fuses, which act as a safety device by cutting off the power supply to protect expensive equipment. Fortunately, replacing the fuses is neither expensive nor complicated. All you need to do is remove the current blown fuse and replace it with a new one.

And, if the ice machine is functioning but not producing ice, you will need to check the water supply and inspect the machine for blockages. In addition to that, the water level in the ice machine should be adequate. If you find the water level too low, you will need to adjust the float valve or check for blockages in the water inlet valve.

Keep in mind that a clogged water filter can also be a source of problems in such cases. Water filters are designed to trap contaminants and purify water. With time, the filters can become choked too which will disrupt the supply of water. So, ensure they are clean or have them replaced if damaged.

Furthermore, condenser coils can prevent the ice machine from making solid ice cubes as well. The reason is that the condenser coils dispense heat as a byproduct of the cooling process. If the coil is covered with layers of dirt and dust, it could become difficult for heat to disperse eventually heating the coil and resulting in permanent damage.

This is why it is important to keep a check on the coils and schedule expert maintenance to prevent the machine from facing serious issues.

Ice Machine Leaking Water

Water leakages in ice machines are not that common, especially in new units. But, if the unit happens to be old, you can expect some minor leakages or major if ignored for a long period. If the ice machine is leaking water, it could be that the drain line is either choked or kinked.

In case of water leakages, you will mostly find pools of water underneath the machine. It is not necessary that some component is faulty but it could be as simple as the drain pipe needing cleaning. To prevent the drain pipe from clogging in the future. Make sure to clean it at least once every week or month.

Ice Machine Making Strange Noises

Commercial ice makers make a humming sound when running which is normal. But, if you notice the machine making strange noises like squeaking or chirping etc. it means there is something wrong and needs immediate attention.

You should know that machines like commercial ice makers consist of several different types of components that work together to produce ice. If any component tends to malfunction, the entire machine goes down as well.

So, in the case of weird noises, you should shut down the machine and inspect the source of the problem. If access is an issue, you should consult an ice dispenser repair Springfield professional.

Ice Machine Not Dispensing Ice

A commercial ice machine not dispensing ice can be a frustrating problem. The first thing you need to do is check the dispenser chute for any blockages. Try to use a tool to clear away any obstructions. In addition to that, you should also try to check the control board.

The control board is the main component that gives you access to various options. If it is experiencing problems, it will need an expert’s attention. Try resetting the control board using the user manual. If the problem persists, you should replace it.

Regular Maintenance Is Key To Prevent Breakdowns

Regular maintenance is the most important factor when it comes to preventing commercial ice maker problems. Many food business owners ignore the fact that maintenance is not an expense but rather an investment. This is because you are paying to keep future troubles at bay.

At the same time, professional maintenance is not just limited to cleaning but also deep inspection of the unit to identify any potential troublesome parts and fix them on the spot before they are issued down the road.

When it comes to professional maintenance, you should always choose a licensed and certified individual. It can be tempting to select someone cheaper but do not. Professional inspections and maintenance are always backed by a guarantee and prolongs the lifespan of the unit allowing you to make the most of your unit.

Conclusion

In the end, preventing commercial ice machine breakdowns is easy if you are punctual with maintenance and inspect the ice machine often. Commercial ice machines are not that complicated to deal with and can easily be managed if you educate and train your employees as well. Such factors when combined, help your business run smoothly and without any troubles. However, if any problem arise, consult commercial ice maker repair Alexandria services.