How to clean your ice machine

Regardless of the area of operation of a business, there is a high chance that ice is an important part of ensuring quality production. If you work in ice sales, hotels, bakeries, or even construction, you know, just like us, that using ice is key to ensuring the effectiveness of your production processes and the satisfaction of your customers.

That’s why it’s important to pay attention to all the characteristics that influence this process. And one of them is the cleanliness of your ice machine. With that in mind, today Calabria teaches you how to ensure the proper cleaning of your equipment. Check it out!

Quality Ice Machines for Your Business

If your business involves the production of ice for consumption (whether with hotels, restaurants, and bars) or for the maintenance of your products (such as fish farmers and ice cream makers), it is obvious that you are concerned about sanitary processes that directly influence the quality and well-being of your customers.

After all, water that is contaminated can be used to produce ice that unfortunately ends up causing the transmission of diseases. And this has a negative effect on the image of your company.

Therefore, opting for equipment like those from Calabria, which are assembled with these and other issues in mind, is essential to offer a final product that does not cause headaches for you or your customer. However, due importance must also be given to a key aspect: the cleaning of the ice machine.

When to clean your ice machine

It is important to perform the cleaning of the machine within the ideal period, sanitizing each part, from the internal parts, such as the tank, to the surface. 

The recommended time for cleaning is usually between 3 to 6 months, but in some cases, the interval may be shorter (depending on factors such as the overall cleanliness of the environment, among others). However, by paying attention to some details, it is possible to identify exactly when cleaning is necessary. These include: 

• The ice is more “cloudy” and not as clear as before; 

• When in tube form, the ice is smaller in size and melts faster; 
• The taste of drinks and materials in contact with the ice is different than expected; 
• Dirt can be seen in the ice as it comes out of the machine; 
• The dirt in the machine is very noticeable, especially in the parts that are in direct contact with water/ice; 
• The bottom of the tank has a lot of deposits. 

The Importance of Cleaning Your Ice Machine 

Although most entrepreneurs who use ice machines and other refrigeration solutions know the importance of cleaning the equipment, many end up not doing it correctly or within the due time interval. 

It is worth noting that each Calabria product has different demands and specifications. Therefore, before cleaning them, be sure to read the instructions and manuals of the machines. And of course, for further clarifications, you can always count on our specialized technical assistance. 

Now, in general, there are some recommendations that can help with the proper cleaning of your ice machine and related equipment. For example: 

• Unplug the equipment: Here at Calabria, we offer a complete line of refrigeration equipment that not only meets all your expectations but also does so in a practical way. One example of this is that our machines come ready to use, just plug them into an outlet. However, during cleaning, make sure the equipment is not energized. 

Pay attention to the ice outlet 

The ice output is one of the most important parts of the machine and should be cleaned accordingly! 

The indicated time for cleaning is usually between 3 to 6 months, although in some cases the interval may be even shorter (depending on factors such as overall cleanliness of the environment, among others). However, by paying attention to some details, it is possible to identify exactly when cleaning is necessary. These include: 

• The ice is more “cloudy” and not as clear as before; 

• When in a tube, the ice is smaller in size and melts faster; 
• The taste of drinks and materials in contact with the ice is different than expected; 
• Dirt is visible on the ice as it comes out of the machine; 
• The dirt in the machine is clearly noticeable, especially on the parts that are in direct contact with the water/ice; 
• There is a lot of sediment at the bottom of the tank. 

The importance of cleaning your ice machine 

Although most entrepreneurs who use ice machines and other refrigeration solutions are aware of the importance of cleaning the equipment, many end up not doing the process correctly or within the appropriate time interval. 

It is worth noting that each Calabria product has different requirements and specifications. Therefore, before cleaning them, please read the instructions and manuals of the machines. And of course, for further clarification, you can always count on our specialized technical assistance. 

Now, in general, there are some recommendations that help with the proper cleaning of your ice machine and others, such as: 

Unplug the equipment 

Here at Calabria, we offer a complete line of refrigeration equipment that not only meets all your expectations, but also does so in a practical way. One example of this is that our machines arrive ready to use, simply by plugging them into an outlet. However, during cleaning, make sure the equipment is not energized. 

Pay attention to the ice output 

This is the part of the machine that delivers your product! Therefore, give it the proper attention it deserves. Wipe it clean with a cloth, dry it properly, and try to do this more frequently than the overall cleaning of the equipment. 

External and internal cleaning 

Cleaning the outside of the machine is just as important as the inside. By wiping the surface of the equipment with a damp cloth, you remove dust and prevent it from spreading and contaminating the entire ice-making process. Never use brushes for this, as they can leave scratches on the machine. 

Remove detachable parts 

As a rule, the equipment has screwed parts that should not be removed. However, some parts can be removed for individual cleaning. If you are unsure which items can be removed, do not hesitate to contact our team or consult the machine manual. 

Calabria: ice machines for all businesses 

Following the above tips, your machine’s cleaning is guaranteed, along with high-quality ice perfect for consumption and use! With Calabria, it’s just like that: in addition to a complete solution in refrigeration equipment, you have a world of advantages to make your business take off and leave the competition frozen! 

Contact us and request your quote right now.