I.Daily Maintenance

These are simple and quick checks to ensure the machine runs normally every day.

Exterior Check: Wipe the external surfaces of the machine with a clean, damp cloth to keep it clean.

Surroundings Check: Ensure there is sufficient space for heat dissipation around the machine (typically recommended to be more than 30 cm for the back and both sides). Keep it away from heat sources and in a well-ventilated environment.

Observe Ice: Check if the produced ice cubes are fully formed and uniform in size. Abnormal ice (e.g., thin, cloudy, or odorous ice) is often a precursor to problems.

II. Weekly/Bi-Weekly Maintenance

This is key to ensuring ice quality and machine efficiency.

Clean the Condenser

Importance: This is the most frequently overlooked but most critical maintenance step. Dust clogging the condenser leads to poor heat dissipation, reduced cooling efficiency, surging power consumption, and serious damage to the compressor.

Method:

Disconnect the power.

Use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush dust off the surface of the condenser fins.

Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the brushed-off dust.

If grease contamination is severe, use a dedicated “condenser cleaner” spray. After the foam dissolves the dirt, carefully rinse with clean water (protecting electrical components) and dry/vacuum.

Frequency: In dusty kitchen environments, recommended every two weeks; in normal environments, monthly.

Clean the Water System (Important!)

Importance: Removes scale, mineral deposits, and biofilm, which are the main causes of reduced ice-making efficiency, compromised ice hygiene, and off-tastes.

Method:

Use an official or food-grade ice machine cleaner specifically designed for ice machines. Do not use strong acidic household descalers (e.g., toilet bowl cleaners) as they can corrode the machine’s internal piping.

Mix the cleaner with warm water according to the instructions and pour it into the water reservoir.

Initiate a cleaning cycle (machines often have a built-in function) or let it run for about 30 minutes, allowing the cleaning solution to circulate through the entire system.

Drain the cleaning solution.

Rinsing is essential: Fill the reservoir with plenty of clean water, run the machine for 10-15 minutes, then drain. Repeat 1-2 times until all cleaner residue is completely removed.

Clean the Evaporator (Ice Grid) and Sensors

Importance: Ensures ice releases properly, preventing cubes from sticking to the grid.

Method:

During the weekly water system cleaning, the cleaner flowing through the evaporator will help clean it.

After disconnecting power, check the ice grid surface for stubborn scale. If present, gently wipe with a soft cloth dipped in diluted cleaner. Do not scrape with hard objects to avoid damaging non-stick coatings like Teflon.

III. Monthly/Quarterly Maintenance

Check and Replace the Water Inlet Filter

If your ice machine has a pre-installed water filter, it must be replaced strictly according to the filter’s service life (usually 3-6 months or after processing a certain volume of water). This is the most effective method for reducing scale formation.

Thoroughly Clean the Ice Storage Bin and Interior

Empty all ice.

Thoroughly wipe the inner walls of the ice storage bin and the ice chute with a food-grade sanitizer (e.g., diluted bleach solution).

Rinse with clean water and allow to dry completely.

Note: Always use a dedicated ice scoop to remove ice. Never use containers like glass cups directly, as breakage can cause contamination.

IV. Seasonal/Long-Term Storage Maintenance

If planning to disuse the machine for an extended period (e.g., over one month), perform the following steps:

Thorough Cleaning: Perform a complete cleaning of the water system and interior.

Drain All Water: Completely drain and dry all water from the reservoir, water lines, and ice storage bin.

Clean Condenser: Perform a thorough condenser cleaning.

Power Off: Unplug the power cord.

Proper Storage: Place the machine in a dry, ventilated area and cover it with a dust cover. It’s best to leave the door or lid slightly ajar to prevent internal mold.