Can you guarantee your clients will get all the ice needed this summer? Be sure your ice machine is prepared for summer's hottest months. The last thing you need is a faulty ice maker serving your customer's lukewarm beverages. This article will highlight different ways you can successfully prepare your ice machine for this year's hottest months.
Does the Water Cool Enough?
The manufacturers of ice machines recommend that you keep your water temperature at 50 degrees or lower for the best ice production. Water temperatures as high as 90 degrees are acceptable for ice machines, but they perform better at 50 degrees. It would be best to never cycle in hotter water; it will take longer to freeze and produce less ice. The summer weather can affect the water supply of your business negatively. The summer heat should not be an issue if your water pipes are underground. Water lines above ground can cause the temperature to rise so high that it could threaten your ice maker.
Sea Breeze has found that water can reach temperatures up to 140 degrees in above-ground lines. Consider having your plumber insulate your above-ground water lines to cool the water. Moving the above-ground water lines into a location with less exposure to sunlight may also be possible.
Does the Air Cool Enough?
Air-cooled models are used by most businesses that use commercial ice machines. The air around the ice machine is used to cool down the refrigerant to the right temperature to produce ice. It is harder for the machine to work when it gets hot. The manufacturers recommend that the temperature around your ice maker should not exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure maximum production.
You should do the following to keep your equipment and surrounding air cold:
Make sure the room where the ice maker is located has adequate ventilation. This includes the immediate area around the machine.
Set the temperature in the room where the ice maker is located to no more than 70 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly during working hours.
Avoid accumulating clutter on the machine or in the area around it. This will prevent the hot air that the machine exhales from escaping. Keep a minimum of one foot clear on each side of the machine.
Is the Ice Machine Properly Installed?
This might seem obvious, but you would be surprised how many people incorrectly install ice machines. The correct installation is the first step to optimizing your ice maker's performance in summer. The higher chance of installing your ice maker incorrectly is a major downside to hiring an HVAC or refrigeration company.
Sea Breeze considers DEWS (Drainage, Electrical, Water, and Space) when installing ice machines. How much summer temperature affects an ice maker depends on the space it is placed in. If you place an ice maker in the wrong location, it may produce less ice during summer or break down. It's essential to consider the temperature and air quality when choosing a space for an ice maker. Installation of ice machines is not recommended outdoors, In rooms without air conditioning, or near heat-producing appliances. You want to ensure your ice machine is as excellent as possible.
Imagine you want an ice maker in your bakery, diner, restaurant, or office. No matter where it is installed, air pollution will hurt the machine because of the higher grease, yeast, and dirt levels. The contaminants in the machine can trap heat and cause the machine to malfunction.
Has the Ice Bin been Handled Properly?
It's possible that the ice bins in your home are not refrigerated. Installing your ice maker in an air-conditioned area with plenty of space surrounding it is crucial. If you have a fully-filled bin, the ice should remain frozen for as long as needed. However, if you let hot air into the bin all day, it may melt some ice before you can use it.
Close the lid of the bin immediately after you scoop out the ice.
You can use an ice dispenser that does not need a bin. Just ensure you keep the water and air temperatures at the recommended level. Otherwise, the ice will melt inside and leak.
Get Started Today
While your walk-in fridge, dishwasher, and ovens might not require any preparation, the ice maker does. Call a reputable ice machine technician and schedule an inspection and maintenance appointment after you have completed the tasks you can handle yourself. When you get to the end of summer and have never run out of ice, you'll thank yourself for taking the time. Contact Sea Breeze to learn more about ice machine rental program.