Is It Time To Replace Your Commercial Ice Machine?
Evolution Maintenance
Thinking about replacing your commercial ice machine? There are plenty of reasons for your commercial ice maker to stop making ice. Believe it or not, the process of freezing water is tougher than it seems. However, before you put in a purchase order in for a new ice machine, it’s worth determining whether or not a repair is in the cards.
Is your commercial ice maker ready for the salvage yard or salvageable?
TROUBLESHOOTING YOUR COMMERCIAL ICE MACHINE
After running the obvious power and water supply checks, consider the following:
HOW HOT IS IT IN THERE?
If your ice maker is struggling to keep up with the demands of your commercial kitchen, or you suspect that heat is pocketing dangerously around the machine, take a temperature reading. If temperatures are routinely topping 90 degrees, ice machine production can drop dramatically. When ambient temperatures are too high, water temperatures increase accordingly and ice machines work exponentially harder to cool water to acceptable levels for ice making.
As an added bonus, cooling your work space sufficiently not only aids in ice production, but it also helps keeps your employees happy and food supplies stable.
On the off chance you’re already looking to purchase an ice machine, it’s wise to keep typical working temperatures in mind and to consider purchasing a machine that makes more ice than you think you’ll need.
IS THERE ENOUGH BREATHING ROOM FOR YOUR ICE MACHINE?
Space is at a premium for most kitchens and commercial retail spaces, however, even ice machines need a little elbow room. Air cooled ice machine heads and under counter ice makers need at least six inches of clearance for optimal airflow and ice making.
IS YOUR COMPRESSOR WORKING OVERTIME?
If this is the case, it may be time to throw in the towel. The experts at The News have this very common-sense advice for business owners: “If there are major problems with the compressor, metering device, controls, etc., and the machine is old enough that the owner wants to replace it instead of paying for major repairs on an old machine, the descaling procedure might turn out to be a waste of time.”
HAVE YOU CLEANED YOUR MACHINE RECENTLY?
If you’ve heard the horror stories about dirty ice, then your customers have too. Do yourself a favor and routinely clean your machine and replace the filter. Not only will scale, microscopic mineral deposits, cause your commercial ice machine work less efficiently, it’s one of the most common causes of ice machine failure. Always clean your machine using Federal Food Code standards. Check the machine manufacturer recommendations and clean accordingly. To minimize scale build-up, replace the filter every six months, at minimum. Scale can be safely removed with specially formulated removal products.
IS THE CONDENSER CLEAN?
If the condenser coils are dusty, oily, or otherwise grimy, warm air cannot be effectively filtered out and away from your machine. Heat, obviously, is the enemy of ice. Dust is easy to wipe away with a damp cloth. Grease is a little tougher and may require a chemical or specially formulated cleaning solution if the situation is particularly dire.
IS IT TIME FOR A SERVICE CALL?
While managers and business owners can certainly perform basic troubleshooting procedures, ice machines are complicated and sensitive industry-specific equipment. Arens Publications encourages entrepreneurs to “…Have your ice machines serviced annually by a professional. The experts are able to tune-up your equipment and be proactive about fixing any existing issues to make sure that not only is your machine working properly, but also so you don’t face any future breakdowns when least expected.”
For commercial ice machine service, maintenance, and installation contact
Evolution Maintenance today at (615)-649-0622.
EVOLUTION MAINTENANCE COMMERCIAL HVAC BLOG
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5 Signs Your Commercial HVAC System Needs Immediate Attention Your commercial HVAC system is the heart of your business's comfort and operational efficiency. When it's working properly, you barely notice it. But when something goes wrong, it can create a costly disruption—impacting everything from employee productivity to customer satisfaction. Recognizing early signs of HVAC problems can help you avoid expensive emergency HVAC repairs or complete system replacements. Here are five warning signs you should never ignore. 1. Unusual Noises Commercial HVAC systems typically run quietly in the background. If you start hearing banging, clanging, squealing, or grinding noises, it's a clear signal that something is wrong. Possible causes: Loose parts, worn bearings, motor issues. Why it matters: Ignoring unusual sounds can lead to major component failures and higher repair costs. If your HVAC system suddenly sounds like it's struggling, it’s time to schedule an immediate inspection with a trusted commercial HVAC maintenance provider like Evolution Maintenance. 2. Inconsistent Temperatures Are some rooms freezing cold while others feel stuffy and warm? Uneven heating or cooling is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a red flag. Possible causes: Blocked vents, failing compressors, thermostat malfunctions, or ductwork problems. Why it matters: Temperature inconsistencies strain your system and drive up energy bills. Properly diagnosing and fixing these issues early prevents unnecessary energy waste and discomfort for employees and customers alike. 3. Sudden Spike in Energy Bills If your utility bills have shot up without a clear explanation, your HVAC system may be working harder than it should. Possible causes: Dirty coils, clogged filters, refrigerant leaks, or malfunctioning parts. Why it matters: High energy consumption means your system isn’t running efficiently, costing your business money month after month. Scheduling regular commercial HVAC inspections can help pinpoint inefficiencies before they become long-term financial drains. 4. Frequent Cycling If your HVAC system is constantly turning on and off (known as "short cycling"), it's struggling to maintain the desired temperature. Possible causes: Thermostat issues, refrigerant leaks, oversized equipment, or electrical malfunctions. Why it matters: Short cycling stresses your system, causing faster wear and higher repair costs. This behavior can significantly shorten the lifespan of your HVAC unit if not addressed quickly through professional HVAC servicing.\ 5. Poor Indoor Air Quality Bad smells, excessive dust, or a sudden rise in allergy symptoms among employees could point to HVAC system problems. Possible causes: Mold growth, dirty filters, clogged ducts, or stagnant moisture. Why it matters: Poor indoor air quality not only affects health but can also open your business to liability issues and customer complaints. An experienced commercial HVAC technician can assess and resolve indoor air quality problems to keep your environment safe and inviting. Don’t Wait—Protect Your Investment Delaying action when your commercial HVAC system shows warning signs can lead to higher repair costs, lost business, and even complete system failure. Being proactive is key. At Evolution Maintenance, we specialize in rapid response and preventative care for commercial systems of all sizes. If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate—contact us today for an immediate assessment and expert repair services.
PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS WITH HVAC MAINTENANCE When you manage a business, every dollar matters. One often-overlooked strategy for safeguarding your company’s finances is simple: regular HVAC maintenance. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems aren't just a comfort feature—they are critical to your operations. Investing in preventative HVAC maintenance can lead to significant savings, improved performance, and a healthier, more productive work environment. The True Cost of Neglected HVAC Systems Ignoring routine commercial HVAC services might seem like a cost-saving measure in the short term, but it often leads to major expenses down the line. Dirty filters, worn-out components, and neglected inspections can cause your systems to work harder, driving up energy costs and increasing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. According to industry studies, businesses that skip routine HVAC maintenance face repair costs that are 30% higher on average—and a complete system failure could mean a five-figure replacement cost. Downtime, especially for retail stores, restaurants, or office buildings, also results in lost revenue and unhappy clients or employees. Benefits of Routine HVAC Maintenance Partnering with a trusted provider like Evolution Maintenance for regular HVAC check-ups offers a range of financial advantages: 1. Lower Energy Bills Efficient HVAC systems consume less power. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspections ensure that your equipment operates at peak performance, reducing your monthly utility expenses. 2. Extended Equipment Lifespan A well-maintained HVAC system can last up to 40% longer than one that’s neglected. This delays costly replacements and maximizes your original investment. 3. Fewer Emergency Repairs Preventative HVAC maintenance identifies potential issues before they turn into expensive emergencies. Scheduled inspections and tune-ups help your business avoid costly surprise repairs that can disrupt operations. 4. Improved Indoor Air Quality Cleaner air means healthier employees and customers. Regular filter replacements and system cleanings reduce allergens, mold, and bacteria, leading to fewer sick days and a more comfortable environment. 5. Compliance and Safety Regular inspections ensure your systems meet local codes and safety regulations. Non-compliance can lead to fines, insurance issues, or even shutdowns—all of which can hit your bottom line hard. How Often Should You Schedule Commercial HVAC Maintenance? The recommended frequency depends on your industry and usage levels, but most businesses should plan for professional HVAC servicing at least twice a year—typically in the spring and fall. Critical environments like healthcare facilities or food service operations may require more frequent checks. Evolution Maintenance offers customized HVAC maintenance plans tailored to your specific needs, ensuring optimal performance year-round. Protect Your Business's Future with Evolution Maintenance Regular commercial HVAC maintenance isn’t just an operational necessity—it’s a strategic financial decision. By keeping your systems running efficiently, you safeguard your bottom line, protect your people, and support the long-term success of your business. At Evolution Maintenance, we specialize in helping businesses just like yours thrive through proactive, reliable HVAC solutions. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance plan and see how easy protecting your investment can be.
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