How Routine Water Filter Replacements Enhance Your Ice Quality

Last updated on January 10th, 2024 at 12:54 pm

Cloudy, foggy, or odd-tasting ice is often a sign of a neglected commercial ice machine. Particularly, one that’s overdue for a water filter change.

We’ve all experienced it. You’re at a restaurant, eagerly awaiting your favorite drink, it arrives, and you notice something’s off. The ice cubes in your glass are cloudy, maybe even emitting a weird taste or smell.

These are tell-tale signs of an underlying issue.

Ice should be treated with as much care as any other food ingredient. A crucial part of this is regularly replacing your ice machine’s water filter. Often, cloudiness is a result of buildup in the ice machine, signaling the need for a new filter.

Why should I replace my water filter?

Installing an inline filtration system for your commercial ice machine’s water supply is crucial to producing great ice. It will remove bacteria, minerals, and other contaminants, giving you crystal clear, tasteless ice.

Clear ice is healthy ice. Free from any contaminants, thanks to filtered water.

Regular filter replacement is not just a maintenance task. It’s a necessity for your customers’ health, and the efficiency and longevity of your ice machine.

A well-maintained water filter will:

• Remove mineral deposits and slime build-up, which can make drinks unappealing and cause health issues, especially in those with weakened immune systems.
• Eliminate residual chlorine, improving taste and smell.
• Improves water flow, allowing your ice machine to work efficiently.

But the benefits extend beyond just quality.

Most ice machine manufacturers require regular filter replacement, typically every six months, as a condition of their warranty. Manufacturers know that their products work best when cared for properly. Failure to adhere to this schedule could void your warranty early.

On the flip side, some manufacturers, like Ice-O-Matic offer an extended warranty contingent on regular filter replacement. This can greatly reduce long-term maintenance costs. Plus, your ice machine will last longer.

How do I know when my water filter needs replaced?

Knowing the signs of a water filter that’s about to go bad can save you time and money in the long run. If you notice any of these, it may be time to change your filter. Or even call in a trained service technician.

1. Indicator Light: Many modern machines have a filter indicator light.
2. Bad Smelling or Tasting Ice: A clear sign the filter is failing.
3. Discolored Ice: Indicates the presence of contaminants.
4. Low Water Dispenser Pressure: Suggests a clogged filter.
5. Slow Ice Production: Could mean the filter is obstructing water flow.

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of water filters in your ice machine is a critical practice. It will ensure the production of clear, tasteless, and odorless ice for your business. Remember, clear water translates to clear ice, guaranteeing the best experience with every beverage.

Which filter do I need?

Commercial water filtration systems vary, typically using one to three filters per ice machine based on size. These filters are crucial for maintaining the quality of ice and need to be changed every 6 months.

Neglecting this can lead to bacterial growth, calcium buildup, and eventually increased service calls. The type of water filter system you’ll need depends on the ice machine model, and the local water quality.

Here are some common filter types:

Sediment Filters: Ideal for heavy sediment applications, they remove debris, rust, sand, and small particles.

Carbon Filters: Best for machines producing flake or cubelet ice, they use adsorptive filtration to remove harmful particles.

Phosphate Filters: These filters prevent scale build-up, which can damage parts of the ice machine. They are essential in areas with hard water.

In addition to the filter type, it’s smart to consider whether an OEM filter or replacement filter is right for you.

Generally, OEM or Original Equipment Manufacturer filters are easier to shop for, since the same manufacturer that made your ice machine, produces the filter. That means it could be easier to match up the correct filter with your model number.

However, replacement, or aftermarket filters manufactured by third-party companies can work just as well if not better than OEM options.

Depending on the independent manufacturer, you could save on purchasing an aftermarket filter, with the same results. Spend some time browsing aftermarket vs. OEM filters to decide what’s right for your business.

Beyond the quality of your ice, regularly changing your ice machine’s water filter can save you from a voided warranty. Preventative care for restaurant equipment ensures that your business can continue to run smoothly. Know about the issue before it’s a crisis.

Do what’s right for your business, and your ice machine –  plan your regular filter change today!