It’s crunch time for commercial ice makers and ice cream machines. As we enter the final and hottest stretch of summer, each must perform with precision. Some, however, may be showing signs of wear and making business owners in Stark County, Ohio and Portage County, Ohio worry. Now is not the time for breakdowns as the last burst of seasonal profits is at stake. And this is well understood by the commercial refrigeration sales and service experts at Miller’s Refrigeration in Summit County, Ohio. Their tips can help determine whether refrigeration equipment maintenance is the solution to ice maker problems and how to let the condition of an ice cream machine guide an owner’s hand.
Among the most common ice maker problems that alarm business owner are water leaks, slow production, strange noises, and utility bill spikes. And rightfully so! Each indicates an issue that can damage the machine and inhibit revenues. Interestingly, past refrigeration equipment maintenance performed on these machines can give a glimpse into the potential severity of what’s going on.
To clarify, a commercial ice maker has a life span of six to 10 years depending on the brand. In each of those years, specific refrigeration equipment maintenance should occur twice. This includes emptying and sanitizing the machine, replacing its water filter, and cleaning or replacing condenser fins or air filters. Business owners who skip cleaning, sanitizing, and filter replacement make way for sediment settlement and scale buildup. And these particular ice maker problems result in reduced ice production and cloudy ice cubes that can smell and taste funny.
Slighting condenser fins or air filters which must be cleaned every six months with the need for replacement determined during each bi-annual round of targeted attention can also cut production. You see, these cleanings wipe out lint and grease. Whereas the buildup of either or both will essentially suffocate an ice machine and eliminate the possibility of optimal operation.
Fortunately, business owners in Stark County whose machines are making less ice like those in Portage County who find their ice slightly peculiar can often get back on track with maintenance. This of course depends on how many mandatory touch ups have been overlooked, and whether other ice maker problems are also happening. Specifically, strange noises and utility bill spikes which can’t be explained without a thorough examination.
Conversely, the experts at Miller’s Refrigeration in Summit County suggest examining usage and maintenance habits in addition to letting the condition of specific components of an ice cream machine guide owners’ decisions. As the rate of use of these machines varies greatly per business, it is difficult to predict how long they can or should last. However, an owner that has not had their ice cream machine serviced can gauge the need for maintenance or replacement from a few telltale signs of trouble.
For example, if an ice cream machine takes longer than normal to complete its initial freeze down, it may need new scraper blades or a condenser cleaning. A look at the blades can narrow these options as they have wear lines that show when they’re through. And a nod to condenser troubles is indicated by the machine’s inability to maintain its freezing temperature between 18 and 21 degrees. A final component to consider is the machine’s O-ring which can tear and cause a leak.
Hopefully, this explanation of causes and effects of ice maker problems and ways to let your ice cream machine guide your next move helps. Missed refrigeration equipment maintenance is a common culprit for commercial refrigeration issues in Stark County, Ohio restaurants and Portage County, Ohio eateries. And with a call to Miller’s Refrigeration at 330.784.4527, each can get a solid solution. Feel free to visit millersrefrigeration.com to learn more about the local company or call today for assistance in sustaining yours.
Miller’s Refrigeration
2215 E Waterloo Road #402
Summit County, Ohio 44312
330.784.4527
millersrefrigeration.com