How often should you clean your ice machine? -yahoo

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ice machine

Anyone who has owned an ice machine will tell you that it needs regular cleaning to keep it working properly. Whether it's the quality of the ice or the performance of the machine, everything becomes visible when a problem arises. If you anticipate the problem and want to keep your ice machine on a schedule, how often should you clean and defrost your unit? What's the best way to make it flawless without using harsh chemicals? Keep your ice machine in top condition to avoid contaminated or hard-tasting ice.

It's recommended that you clean your ice machines at least twice a year, but if you notice your ice smelling different or changing in shape or clarity, it's time to start over. Other warning signs include low ice production or ice that has not fully formed, indicating a potential problem that cleaning can resolve.

Start by cleaning the freezer.

The first step in cleaning your ice machine is to remove all of the old ice. While you're at it, also throw expired and frozen foods out of your freezer. Ice can absorb odors from spoiled food, affecting the taste. When in doubt, throw it away.

get rid of the dirt

Scale and mineral deposits build up on the metal plates that freeze the ice cubes, causing delays in ice production, stress on the machine and potentially costly repairs and maintenance. Manufacturers generally recommend using a product with their particular ice machines to remove buildup, so check your owner's manual.

kill germs

If you don't clean your machine, you may notice slime and mold. Germs and bacteria can also multiply in the cold. Nobody wants to add dangerous E. coli, salmonella or listeria to a drink. Disinfection is an important part of the process. Despite freezing temperatures , harmful bacteria and disease-causing germs can contaminate the ice in your freezer .

As with descaling and limescale removers, some specific items are designed to kill mold and germs in an ice machine. You should not use bleach, ammonia, or other household cleaners as they can leave chemicals in the ice. This Affresh product is designed for standalone ice machines, but the instructions on their website provide detailed, step-by-step instructions for cleaning any type of ice machine.

Helpful cleaning tips

• Unplug the freezer while cleaning the icemaker to avoid creating new ice during the process.

• Discard the first two ice cycles to ensure no residue is left behind.

• Try changing the filter in your refrigerator or any water filter in your appliance when cleaning your ice cream maker to get the best fresh flavored ice cream.

• Use a spoon to reduce germs. The biggest culprit for dirty ice cream is the hand that fills a glass. If you need to access the inside of the freezer compartment, wash your hands first!
  

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