Your ice machine works hard, but over time things like mineral deposits and even bacteria can build up inside, leading to ice that tastes less than fresh. Experts say ice machines should be cleaned about once every 9 months, or more frequently if you live in an area with hard water or high humidity.
The FDA specifies that all commercial ice machines need to be cleaned at least two times per year, but they also recommend sanitizing it four times a year to meet food safety standards.
Increased Risk of Contamination
Dirty ice machines provide an ideal environment for the growth of harmful bacteria, including pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella. As these microorganisms proliferate, they can contaminate the ice produced, posing a significant health risk to consumers.
Safe ice requires a clean ice machine
According to FDA regulations, ice needs to be stored and handled like food, and that means ice machines need to be regularly cleaned.
Clean the ice maker at least once a week or every three days. Clean the interior with diluted detergent, warm water, and a soft cloth, then rinse with clear water. Do not use bleach or vinegar to clean the internal components.
You should clean your ice machine as part of your regular deep cleaning schedule, whether it's spring cleaning, New Year's cleaning or any other time of year. While you can use vinegar or lemon juice to deep clean your ice maker, affresh brand recommends using an ice machine cleaning solution instead.
Stick to a Regular Cleaning Schedule
To maintain optimal performance of your countertop ice maker, it is important to clean it regularly, ideally at least once every two months.
Here is a general guideline: Commercial Ice Maker and Flake Ice Machine: You should clean your machine at least every six months. However, if you have particularly hard water at your location, the machine may require more frequent cleaning due to mineral buildup.
The bottom line
To keep ice safe, ensure there are no cross-connections present with your ice machine, handle ice safely using an ice scoop, and regularly clean and sanitize your machine. Also, avoid storing any food or beverage in the ice machine bin.
Most ice makers come with a self-cleaning cycle, add water and ice maker cleaner/descaler to the water reservoir, then click the cleaning button, the ice maker will run a full cycle cleaning.
The base and exterior of the ice machine should be cleaned daily and kept free of water around the machine to avoid slippery floors.
If there's a musty odor whenever you open the ice dispenser, that's a red flag. Visible signs might include black, green, or white spots around the edges or inside the ice maker.
Since the identification of Legionella bacteria in 1976 after a deadly outbreak following an American Legion convention in Philadelphia , multiple studies have found Legionella bacteria growing in ice machines[1].
Regular cleanings promote sanitary and hygienic conditions by getting rid of mold, bacteria, and viruses. They also remove lime and scale build up that cause parts to fail and reduce the life of the machine. Ice Machines that are not properly cleaned and maintained void the manufacturer's warranty.
Ice Machine - Cleaning & Sanitizing Service. Cost? - $182.00 to $272.00 - for a thorough cleaning and sanitizing - that can pass a health inspection. It usually takes from 2 to 3 hours - depending upon the condition of the ice machine: water scale buildup, rust, and black mold.
The best way to prevent mold and slime growth in your ice machine is to stay on top of regular maintenance. Experts recommend deep cleaning and sanitizing ice machines at least twice a year.
Often associated with foodborne outbreaks, Salmonella can be introduced to ice machines through contaminated hands or equipment. Infections result in symptoms like fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, and can be particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Ice machines and ice dispensers should be cleaned as often as necessary to prevent buildup of mold, bacteria, or other factors that may affect the ice being produced. Additionally, condenser fins or air filters should be cleaned or replaced every six months.
An average commercial ice machine should last anywhere from 7 to 10 years depending on the equipment brand, water quality, ambient conditions, and whether it has been properly maintained.
∎ The ice storage compartment should be cleaned regularly, at least fortnightly, to prevent the build-up of bacteria. You should regularly check for any growth of scum or slime inside the machine.
Clean Twice a Year – Every 6 Months
The simple answer is that your commercial ice machine needs to be cleaned at least once every six months. However, depending on the type of ice machine and its location, it may need deep cleaning every three months.
While it can be convenient to have available ice at the touch of a button, the truth is that these machines simply don't last forever. The average lifespan of an ice maker is 5 years.