With proper cleaning, a quality ice machine will last around 4 to 5 years on average, sometimes even longer. So how do you know when it's time to replace your ice machine? The first thing you need to do is locate the problem.
The average lifespan of an ice maker is 5 years.
So, if it's been around five years since you've had your ice machine, here are five of the top signs that it's time for a replacement and how Emergency Ice can help with ice delivery services.
For a newer ice maker with a minor issue, a repair is likely worth it. If your ice maker or fridge is old and the repair is expensive, replacing the ice maker or even the whole fridge might be the best option.
Not making ice: Sometimes, the ice maker turns on just fine, and everything seems to be in place and perfectly working, but the ice maker won't make any ice. In such cases, the potential causes include an empty water tank, low water pressure, clogged water filter, or faulty water inlet valve.
We typically recommend a replacement once an ice machine is 7 years or older.
As an industry standard, the average life of a commercial ice machine is around 10 years, however there are a few variables that will affect the life of your ice machine. uncommon to take calls about machines that are 15 plus years old that are still running strong.
Unplug the machine and wait 10 seconds. Plug the machine back in and press the ON button. You should see a blue light appear, letting you know that the machine has been reset.
Most ice makers can be left on all the time in order to ensure that you always have a fresh supply of ice. Like refrigerator ice makers, these appliances are typically designed to run constantly.
Check the water fill tubes
If your ice maker isn't making ice or if the ice cubes are small or misshapen, the water fill tubes may be the problem. Check the fill cup and the tube at the back of the ice maker. If they are covered in ice, look for a blockage.
On average, a new ice maker can cost anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on what type of model you are replacing. If you decide to call a refrigerator repair specialist, you can expect to pay $75 to $125 an hour for labor or $50 to $200 if you call a plumber.
The bottom line. Overall, countertop ice makers are a great investment for those who want to make ice quickly and easily—without having to hook anything up to a water line.
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.
Do countertop ice makers use a lot of electricity? It depends on the model, but ice makers do not typically use a lot of power. The draw can vary depending on what the ice maker is doing—freezing, pumping, or heating the molds—and the range is fairly wide, from 50 to 160 watts, with an average of 100 watts per hour.
Low water pressure or a clogged water filter can restrict water flow, slowing down the ice-making process. Dirty components. Over time, mineral deposits and debris can build up in the water lines or ice mold, which can prevent the ice maker from working properly. Faulty parts.
With proper cleaning, a quality ice machine will last around 4 to 5 years on average, sometimes even longer.
Keeping your air filters clean is one way you can help prevent the growth of mold and slime. Air filters trap many of the particles they feed on. At Easy Ice, we recommend employees clean air filters every week to prevent a dirty ice machine. Air filters are easy to clean.
One reason could be that the ice maker is low on water or the water level sensor is malfunctioning. You can also clean the water filter and the ice tray with a soft cloth or a brush to remove any dirt or debris that might interfere with the sensor.
Turning off your icemaker at the control panel will save you a lot of trouble in the event of a burst water supply causing flood water to get in your ice maker.
The Machine Is Leaking Water. If your ice machine is leaking water, it could be a sign that there is a problem with the seals or gaskets. These are designed to keep the water in the machine, and if they are damaged, it can cause the machine to leak water.
Poor ice quality: If your ice machine is producing ice that is cloudy or has an unusual taste or odor, it may be time to replace it. Poor ice quality can be a sign of a dirty water filtration system or a malfunctioning ice maker.
You should repair your ice maker if it's less than 5 years old, under warranty, or if new parts are affordable. Replace your unit if it's an older model, or if the repair costs more than replacing the whole ice maker assembly.