GEM-MFI Series
Cleaning/Sanitizing Procedures
Page
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ICE Machine and/or Bin/Dispenser Cleaning and Sanitizing Instructions
Cleaning should be scheduled at a minimum of twice per year.
Sanitizing should be performed after each cleaning or more frequently as required.
Note: Electrical power will be ON when performing the following cleaning instructions.
The cleaning and sanitizing of any commercial ice machine are important procedures all operators need to have in
their preventive maintenance protocol. While similar, these two procedures are uniquely different and accomplish
different things. Cleaning or de-liming, dissolves the mineral deposits on the evaporator and removes scale, calcium
and other mineral buildup. Sanitizing disinfects the machine and removes microbial growth including mold and slime.
In either case, it is important to use solutions that do not harm the ice machine. Never use cleaning or sanitizing
solutions that contain Nitric Acid, Sulfuric Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, Carbolic Acid, Acetic Acid, diluted Acetic Acid or
non-food-grade vinegar (concentration of acetic acid greater than 6% and does not contain enzymes created in
processing) or any chlorine-based solution such as bleach, chlorine dioxide or any type of salts such as potassium
chloride (potassium salts) or sodium chloride. Check the label or the manufacturer’s Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDS) to be sure. These chemicals can attack the surface of the evaporator as well as other metal components
causing corrosion and flaking. Reverse Osmosis (RO) water can be very acidic and can attack the evaporator and
other metal in the ice machine. Because the RO process removes all minerals and metals from the water it can
promote the faster growth of microbial, mold and slime. If RO water is used, Ice-O-Matic recommends the water pH is
verified to be a neutral 7.0 to minimize the corrosive effects. Incorrect cleaners, sanitizers, and RO water that does not
have a neutral pH could void the machine’s warranty.
Cleaning
Prior to Cleaning the ice machine and/or Bin/Dispenser, perform the following:
1. Remove the ice machine front panel.
2. Turn the machine “
OFF
” at the
ON/OFF
selector switch.
3. Remove all ice in the storage bin. (
Required for cleaning and/or sanitizing
)
Cleaning Instructions-Ice Machine
1. Remove the cover from the water reservoir and block up the float.
2. Drain the water reservoir and freezer assembly using the drain tube attached to the freezer water inlet.
Return the drain tube to its normal position and replace the end cap.
3. Add recommended amount of approved nickel safe ice machine cleaner (diluted per manufacturer’s instructions) to
the water trough. (Reference cleaner Manufacturer’s instructions on the package)
4.
Slowly pour the cleaning solution into the water reservoir until full. Wait 15 minutes, then switch the
ON/OFF
switch
to the
ON
position.
5. As the ice machine begins to use water from the reservoir, continue to add more cleaning solution to maintain a full
reservoir.
6. After all of the cleaning solution has been added to the reservoir, and the reservoir is nearly empty, switch the
ON/OFF
switch to the
OFF
position.
7. Drain the water reservoir and freezing assembly using the drain tube attached to the to the freezer water inlet.
Return the drain tube to its normal position and replace the drain plug end cap. Wash and rinse the water reservoir.
8.
Sanitizing the Ice Machine is required after cleaning per Sanitizing Instructions
Cleaning Instructions-Storage Bin/ Dispenser
1. Open the bin door and remove all of the ice in the storage bin, store the ice in a clean container for reuse or discard.
2. Add recommended amount of approved nickel safe ice machine cleaner (diluted per manufacturer’s instructions)
(Reference cleaner Manufacturer’s instructions on the package)
3. Thoroughly wash all surfaces within the bin, this includes the bin door, bin walls, window track and snout area with
soap and water and rinse. Note: An extended handle soft bristle brush may be required.
4. Allow the mineral deposits to absorb the cleaner for approximately 15 minutes to remove and loosen the mineral
deposits. Note: This includes the bin drain.
5. Thoroughly wash all surfaces within the bin, this includes the bin door, bin walls, window track and snout area with
soap and water and rinse. Note: Repeat Steps 3, 4 and 5 as required.
6.
Sanitizing the Storage Bin/Dispenser is required after cleaning per Sanitizing Instructions
