Used Ice Machines & Ice Making Appliances

Used ice machines are a technician’s favorite service call.  Usually there is very little maintenance required other than some minor adjustments or cleaning. 

These are things you can do yourself if you know how and have read the service and maintenance manuals.  The troubleshooting section can help you solve most of your problems without resorting to unnecessary and expensive service calls.   

Buying ice machines in a used condition is a good investment but can be problematic if you’ve purchased it before following a few simple guidelines.  Doing a comparison between the manufacturers specifications and the actual ice production while in use is an essential first step.  This production test will enable you to determine how close to normal operation the machine is functioning.

All you need to do is set up the machine in a normal use environment.  Note the manufactures specification.  Note the water temperature of the source, catch all the ice from one cycle and compare the weights to the specifications.  Now you have a good idea of what the machine is actually producing.  If it is below the advertised production, contact the manufacturer and discuss what potential failure points might turn into maintenance costs in the future.

Commercial Ice Machines 

There are a couple of key components you’ll need to carefully evaluate before buying a used commercial ice machine.  The three most critical components are the cabinet, evaporator, and condenser. When looking at the cabinet, make sure it shows little to no signs of wear.  Make sure the evaporator is secure, operating quietly and shows no signs of deterioration or corrosion.  The condenser should be loose.  If you see grease or char, these are indications it may be damaged internally.

Industrial Ice Machines 

High capacity ice machines used in restaurants also require careful evaluation if you’re considering purchasing a used one.  Some of the things you need to check for and consider are warranties and factory support.  In many cases the gamble of buying these units used is they could end up costing more than the savings.  A good rule of thumb is to avoid the “as is” sale condition. Get some type of guarantee that it will work for several months at least.

Nugget Ice Machine 

Ice machines require more maintenance than any other refrigeration appliance.  The main culprit in buying used nugget ice machines are the expectations that owners have.  The manufacturer will specify the ideal working conditions.  The ratings or ice capacities are actual production based on the design.  When you exceed these specifications, the service calls start.  So be sure when you buy a used nugget ice machine that you intend to operate the machine under ideal conditions, especially as it relates to nugget ice production. 

Under Counter Ice Machines 

You’ve got a couple of options when purchasing an under counter ice machine.  Just like any other used appliance, you can save money and potentially pay later or you can go with energy efficient models which save money upfront and over the life of the machine. Under counter ice machines bought used may be in good shape if you follow the recommendations above for checking them out.  Keep in mind the most common repair for any ice machine are water related.  Put into place a routine cleaning procedure and you’ll reduce the number of service calls you’ll need to make.

Ice machines are a mystery to most people.  Especially if it is bought used, without technical manuals and an understanding of the specifications. Since it is the cornerstone of a restaurants operation, owners tend to panic and will pay whatever is charged.  With a bit of preplanning, keeping your used commercial refrigeration equipment working, you’ll know when you can make minor repairs and just when the services of a technician are needed.