Summer Time Ice Maker Maintenance and Repair Guide

There has never been a better time for choices when it comes to kitchen appliances, both large and small. Top brands such as Scotsman, Sub-Zero, Hoshizaki, Uline and True have been creating ice makers that look sleek and sophisticated in your home. As the summer continues you will be getting more use out of your ice maker. If you don’t yet have one you may want to consider investing in one for their convenience and benefits. The models of ice machines available today can match any current style that you have in your kitchen, bar, or entertainment area.

How Ice Machines Work 

All you need to start producing ice is your ice machine, an outlet to plug it in, and clean, cool water. Fill the reservoir with the water, and turn on the machine. There is a compressor and a fan that freezes the water into ice. Metal prongs freeze the water into particular shapes and sizes of ice. The ice then goes into a storage bin that can usually hold a couple of pounds of ice. At this point, you either use it or you can put it into your freezer. 

Although an ice machine has a freezing mechanism, it has no true freezer in it, so that when the ice is in the storage bin, it will start to melt after some time. However you don’t lose the melted water as most ice machines will recycle it to make new ice. 

Ice machines make ice in a matter of minutes, anywhere from about 6 to 15 minutes for a single batch. In 24 hours, depending on your choice of machine, approximately 20 to 35 pounds or more can be produced. This is one of the huge benefits of having an ice machine.

Repair and Maintenance of Your Ice Machine

It is recommended that you have your ice machine cleaned every 6 months. Depending on the use you may want to have it serviced sooner. Keeping an ice machine in good working order means that the ice produced will be cleaner. 

Common Signs You Need Your Ice Machine Repaired

As you want to have all of your appliances working as they should, being aware of the signs that your ice maker needs repair can help you handle it rapidly. Here are the common signs your ice machine needs repair. 

• Ice machine/dispenser is making strange noises
• Ice tastes funny when dispensed
• Your ice machine is not making ice at all
• Your ice machine is not making enough ice
• Your notice your ice machine is leaking
• There are parts of your ice machine that are frozen

Benefits of Ice Machines

1. Ice makers do not require a water source or installation. This means that if there is an electrical outlet and you have a source of filtered water, you can use it anywhere in the home.
2. They don’t require a drain line. Ice makers reuse melted ice to make more ice. But check to make sure that the model you are interested in has this function.
3. They can be used outside the home, ie: in an RV or camping trailer, or boat.
4. They are generally small, roughly the size of a bread maker.
5. They fit on a countertop and can be put away when not in use.
6. They operate at the push of a button. It takes only minutes to produce ice – approximately 7 to 15 minutes from start to finish.
7. Depending on the brand and model, an ice maker will produce less than 20 pounds and as much as 35 pounds or more of ice in 24 hours

Ice Production 

If you entertain guests a lot you may want to opt for a machine that produces a large amount of ice. However, if your need is not great, a machine with a lower capacity will probably work just fine. 

Shape and Size of Ice

The most common type of ice made in an ice machine is bullet shaped. Some machines only offer one type, but others offer two or more. If you like variety look for a machine that can produce several shapes such as: bullet, crescent, cube, half cube and nugget. Some machines offer small, medium and large pieces of ice. This is not standard, so look for this option if you want variety.

Cleaning Your Ice Maker

A self cleaning option is also a special feature of some machines. Whether you have this option or not, follow the manufacturers’ instructions. Thorough cleaning will ensure that the ice produced will taste its’ best. 

Mesh Filter

An ice maker with a filter to avoid buildup in your machine is a good idea and also convenient. It will also ensure good tasting ice. Make sure to filter your water separately if your ice maker does not have this feature. 

Automatic Timer

This is a great feature if you want to make sure you have a certain amount of ice produced at a particular time. Some machines use Bluetooth technology so that you can control the timer with your phone. By the time you get home, your ice will be ready. 

Matching Your Current Appliances

If you opt to use your ice machine in your kitchen or in your entertainment room there are many attractive models to choose from to fit your current design. If you want it to match your existing appliances there are slick shiny black models, stainless steel, white and others in bold colors. 

Maintenance Tips For Your Ice Machine

The icemaker is one of the hardest working appliances in your home. In order to keep it running smoothly follow these recommendations:

• Replace the water filter. Normally it should be every 6 months but use and manufacturer guidelines should be followed for your specific brand. 
• Place it in a well ventilated area. Above 50 and blow 90. If the machine is in a hot location it will work slower than in a cooler location. More stress is placed on the compressor when located in a hot area. 
• Most machines need maintenance, especially ones that are used often. Having regular maintenance for your specific machine is key to keeping it running smoothly. This will normally include: dusting, checking for proper air circulation and operating temperature. 
• Check to see which type of water is best for your machine. Some machines do not do well with distilled water and salt has to be added if using distilled water. 
• If you use hard water and don’t regularly clean your ice machine then mineral build up will occur within the device. This will slow down the machine’s performance. 
• Make sure there is enough airflow around the machine. As dust buildup can occur on the air intake vent you should dust these periodically. 

Tips on How to Clean Your Ice Machine

1. Disconnect the machine.
2. Remove the scoop and basket.
3. Use a cleaning solution without chemicals (use vinegar, lemon water, etc.).
4. Spray the inside of the machine and use a clean cloth to clean out the machine.
5. Use a toothbrush to get into the hard to reach places. 
6. Put the solution in the reservoir and make ice with the gentle cleaning solution that you chose. 
7. Discard the ice and fill the reservoir with water and run the machine to make ice several times to wash out the solution. 
8. The cleaner is very important to get right. If you use the wrong one, it can cause damage or cause the machine to stop working.

Manuals for Ice Machines

• Sub Zero ice machine use and care manual
• Hoshizaki ice machine manual
• Scotsman ice machine manual
• U-line ice machine manual
• True ice machine manual

C&W Appliance Service can help service your indoor and outdoor appliances when you need it! Helping service the Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin, San Marcos areas for 60 years. Call us at (855) 358-1496 or submit our online service request form for prompt service.