Ice Machine Know-How: Manitowoc offers energy-saving ideas to reduce energy and water consumption of ice machines
Ice has become an essential requirement in most bars and restaurants. Where previously some got away with buying-in bags of ice, they now find demand has far outstripped this method of supply. The solution is to install an in-house ice machine to ensure a constant supply of freshly made ice.
However ice machines use electricity, and, in view of soaring energy prices, it is advisable to make sure that the ice machine is energy efficient and check that it is being used in a way to maximise performance.
Manitowoc, the leading commercial ice machine manufacturer in the US, produces some of the most energy efficient models on the market. These are available in the UK through Classeq. In line with current worries about climate change and energy consumption Manitowoc suggests the following guidelines when selecting ice machines.
· Before purchasing think about where the machine is to be sited. Many ice machines need clearance space around the sides for proper ventilation to work efficiently.
· Site the machine in a cool location. Placing it next to heat-generating kitchen appliances will force the machine to work harder. The harder it has to work, the more energy it will consume.
· Change the water filters regularly as per manufacturer’s instructions (for Manitowoc machines this is every six months) as mineral deposits and slime growth on filters will have an adverse effect on ice production levels.
· De-scale the machine at regular intervals. If the water flow becomes restricted due to built-up mineral deposits, the ice machine takes longer to run through its cycles. Routinely removing scale build-up will keep it working efficiently and save energy. Alternatively get a machine with automatic cleaning/de-liming capabilities. (Many Manitowoc machines are fitted with its patented automatic cleaning system – AuCS).
· Select a machine with a “harvest assist” feature. Harvest assist technology speeds the release of ice from machine to storage bin, shortening ice production cycle time and reducing energy consumption.
· Make sure the ice machine is easy to access and components are simple to remove for cleaning. Ice machines run more efficiently when they are clean. To help keep machines cleaner, look for ice machines that have built-in antimicrobial materials that inhibit the growth of bacteria and reduce the frequency of cleaning. (All Manitowoc machines have removable components while Manitowoc’s S-model ice machines also have the anti-bacterial agent AlphaSan moulded into some plastic components to further reduce bacterial build-up).
Classeq supplies a comprehensive range of Manitowoc machines including the EC Series of spray-production machines, which make premium quality octagonal cubes; the S Series of modular machines with separate storage bins for high volume production; the Q Series of compact and under-counter machines with integral bins, and specialist products such as ice flaker machines. Accessories include modular storage bins; ice dispensers; a range of dedicated water filters; and Manitowoc’s patented AuCS automatic cleaning system.
For further details, call Classeq on 0870 224 7288, see www.classeq.net or email feedback@classeq.co.uk
Copy ends
Note for editors: British manufacturer Classeq, part of the Winterhalter group, is the UK’s leading and most popular warewasher brand for independent and smaller-scale caterers. Classeq is BS EN ISO 9001-2000 accredited.