We’ve prepared some useful preventive maintenance tips business owners can apply before turning off any commercial refrigeration equipment.

 

Ice Machines

Prepare your ice machine for shutdown by cleaning the condenser fins

  • Disconnect the power
  • Turn off the water
  • Clean the condenser with a brush and vacuum away any dirt
  • Remove or melt the ice in the bin in readiness for cleaning

 

If you are switching off the machine, prepare the ice machine for cleaning internally

  1. Follow the manufacturer cleaning instructions:
  2. After you have cleaned the units thoroughly:
    - Run water through the system once to flush out all the chemicals
    - Dry the machine internally.
  3. Turn off the power at the wall.
  4. Disconnect external hoses, flush out with warm water and leave to dry.
  5. After the units are all dry, reconnect the hoses (but do not turn on the water).

By following these steps your ice machine should be ready for its hibernation period - reducing the build-up of any mould, limescale and bacteria.

 

Commercial Refrigeration

If you are switching off the refrigeration

  1. Remove all foods and perishable drinks (like milk or kombucha) from the units and place them into other suitable cold storage.
  2. Switch off the unit at the wall socket.
  3. Clean and sanitise inside the fridge/freezer - remove any spillages or food.
  4. Remove shelving and clean using warm soapy water.
  5. Clean the door gaskets (seals). Check for any splits or damage, and replace if necessary.
  6. Insert a small chock between the door and the cabinet to allow air flow.

 

If you are leaving the units running during the shutdown period

  1. Remove all foods and perishable drinks (like milk or kombucha) from the units and place them into other suitable cold storage.
  2. Switch off power at the wall socket.
  3. Clean the condenser with a soft brush and vacuum any dirt away. This will ensure the unit will run efficiently during the close-down period.
  4. Sanitise inside and outside. Leave doors open to dry, this will help avoid moisture build up in the unit.
  5. Remove shelving and clean using warm soapy water.
  6. Clean the door gaskets. Check for any splits or damage, and replace if necessary.
  7. Check that all air vents are clear of blockages.
  8. Once the units are dry inside, close the doors and turn the unit on at the wall socket.