Quality ice is crucial for many businesses that want to provide an excellent product for their customers. An effective way to achieve this is to use filtered water. Not only will this help you produce better ice, but it will also help your commercial ice machine work more efficiently and last longer.
Why is Filtered Ice Machine Water so Important?
Filtering water reduces the hard minerals that typically run through your ice machine. These minerals can wear down your machine and reduce its longevity, making it critical to filter them out.
Hard Minerals: What You Need to Know
Hard minerals are mineral ions attached to water molecules. Water hardness is caused by various metal and mineral ions present in high amounts in water.
Iron, zinc, manganese, aluminum, and calcium are just a few minerals and metal ions that cause hard water. Magnesium and calcium are the most common culprits. The levels of these metal and mineral ions in tap water will vary depending on where you live and the general environment surrounding your water supply.
So why is hard water an issue? The main problem is that these hard minerals leave behind mineral deposits when they evaporate or are heated, which is called scaling.
Scaling can cause issues for commercial ice machines and other appliances that heat water, such as coffee makers and dishwashers. The damage from scaling will be more gradual in moderately hard water or with fewer dissolved minerals.
As the scaling escalates, you will see that your ice machine is making less ice or working harder to produce the usual amount. Over time, this strain on your machine can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs.
How Filtered Water Enhances Ice Quality
Using filtered water in your ice machine not only helps prevent scaling but also improves the taste and clarity of your ice. Hard water minerals and other impurities can cause ice to appear cloudy and affect its overall flavor.
Filtering out these contaminants results in crystal-clear, better-tasting ice that enhances the drinks you serve.
Why You Should Test Your Water Before Filtering
Testing your commercial water supply is essential before selecting a filtration system. Water testing helps determine the specific contaminants and hardness levels in your water. This information lets you choose the right filter to remove unwanted minerals and impurities effectively.
Without proper testing, you might invest in a filtration system that does not adequately address your water quality issues, leading to persistent scaling and maintenance problems.
The Best Way to Filter Water for Your Commercial Ice Machine
Selecting the right water filtration system is essential to ensure your commercial ice machine runs efficiently. Here are some key filtration methods to consider:
Carbon Filtration: removes chlorine, odors, and taste contaminants from water. It enhances ice clarity and taste, making it a popular choice for commercial ice makers.
Sediment Filters: These filters help remove dirt, rust, and debris from the water before it enters the ice machine. They are crucial for preventing blockages and maintaining machine efficiency.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: RO systems remove many dissolved solids, including hard minerals and other impurities. They are highly effective but require more maintenance and monitoring.
Scale Inhibitor Systems: These systems help prevent scaling by chemically treating the water to reduce mineral buildup. This is particularly useful for areas with extremely hard water.
To determine the best filtration system for your ice machine, consider factors such as water hardness, local water quality, and manufacturer recommendations. Regularly replacing filters and scheduling maintenance will ensure optimal performance and longevity of your ice machine.
Regular Maintenance and Ice Machine Repair Service
Even with proper filtration, commercial ice machines require routine maintenance to operate at peak efficiency. Regular cleaning and servicing ensure that your machine continues to function without interruption. If your ice machine is struggling to produce ice, making unusual noises, or showing signs of excessive scaling, it may be time to call a professional ice machine repair service.
At Fugh Refrigeration, we specialize in keeping your ice machines in top condition. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and repair any issues, ensuring your business continues to serve high-quality ice to your customers.
Ice Machine Repair Services in Pittsburgh
Filtered water is essential for maintaining an efficient and long-lasting commercial ice machine. Reducing hard minerals and impurities can prevent scaling, enhance ice quality, and avoid costly repairs.
For expert maintenance and ice machine repair service, trust the professionals at Fugh Refrigeration to keep your equipment running smoothly.
About The Author
Ben Lutz is the owner of Fugh Refrigeration, has decades of experience in the HVAC/R industry, and has managed many heating, cooling, and refrigeration technicians over the years.
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