The Must-Have Ice Machine Cleaners of 2024
Keeping your ice machine sparkling clean is crucial for maintaining its performance and ensuring that your ice is as pure and delicious as can be.
Top Picks by CM Reviews!
- Best Overall: Essential Values Ice Machine Cleaner 16 fl oz at Amazon $17.99
- Best for Hard Water: Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner at Amazon $12.34
- Best for HVACR Professionals: Nu-Calgon 428734 Ice Machine Cleaner 16 oz at Amazon $17.69
- Best for Commercial Ice Machines: Urnex Freez Ice Machine Cleaner at Amazon $11.93
- Best Descaler: Impresa Products Ice Machine Cleaner/Descaler at Amazon $11.99
Looking for the best ice machine cleaners to keep your ice maker sparkling clean and your ice cubes tasting fresh?
Well, you’re in luck! We’ve got just the information you need. Let’s dive into the world of ice machine cleaners and find the perfect one for you.
Best Ice Machine Cleaners of 2024
Ice machine cleaners may not be the most glamorous topic, but they play a vital role in keeping our ice machines running smoothly and producing clean, fresh ice.
The vast array of ice machine cleaners available on the market can certainly make one’s head spin. But fear not, for we have done the research and discovered a few standout options for you.
So, without further ado, let us introduce you to some exceptional ice machine cleaners:
Essential Values Ice Machine Cleaner 16 fl oz
Essential Values Ice Machine Cleaner is a versatile and effective solution for cleaning and descaling various ice makers.
Whether you own a Whirlpool, Manitowoc, Ice-O-Matic, Scotsman, Follett, or any other brand, this cleaner is compatible with a wide range of ice maker models.
Pros
- It works with a wide range of ice-maker brands. That allows users to have flexibility.
- With a 16 fl oz bottle, the Essential Values ice machine cleaner provides enough solution for multiple uses.
Cons
- Some users mentioned that the cleaner was ironically too hard to clean out of the countertop icemaker.
- Several customers mentioned that the cleaner was not potent enough to remove mold or grime from the ice machine.
Price at Edit Time – Amazon $17.99
One of this ice machine cleaner’s unique qualities is its ability to restore your ice maker to like-new condition. It effectively removes mineral scale deposits, ensuring that your ice tastes fresh and clean. Unlike some other cleaners, it doesn’t leave any residual taste or odor, so you can enjoy pure and refreshing ice every time.
What sets Essential Values Ice Machine Cleaner apart is its value for money. With one 16 fl oz bottle, you can clean your ice machine up to four times. This means you’ll have over a year’s worth of cleaning and descaling solutions with just a single purchase. We recommend descaling your ice machine every 3 to 6 months for optimal performance, so this bottle will last you a long time.
The instructions for use are straightforward. Simply add the ice machine descaler solution to your ice maker, follow the recommended cleaning process, and let it work its magic. Whether you have a countertop, portable, freestanding, under-counter, or built-in ice maker, this cleaner is compatible with all styles.
It’s worth noting that Essential Values Ice Machine Cleaner is made in the USA and is formulated with non-toxic materials. This ensures that it’s safe to use and won’t harm you, your ice maker, or the environment.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and cost-effective ice machine cleaner and descaler, Essential Values Ice Machine Cleaner is a great choice. It effectively removes mineral scale deposits, keeps your ice tasting fresh, and offers excellent value for money. Give your ice maker the care it deserves with this high-quality cleaner.
Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner
Are you tired of dealing with unpleasant-tasting ice that ruins the flavor of your favorite beverages? Look no further than the Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner!
With this cleaner, you can say goodbye to any lingering residue or unpleasant odors that may have been affecting the quality of your ice.
Pros
- Trusted and recommended by major brands. This endorsement speaks to the reliability and effectiveness of the product.
- The cleaner is designed with a nickel-safe formula, which is crucial for protecting the nickel components of your ice machine.
Cons
- Some customers mention that the cleaner cleans okay but leaves an aftertaste on the ice that is difficult to get rid of.
- Some customers expressed that the cleaner did not work effectively in removing calcium/mineral deposits or restoring the smooth surface of the ice cube trays.
Price at Edit Time – Amazon $12.34
The Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner’s potent removal of hard water and mineral buildup stands out as one of its most noteworthy characteristics.
Its reputation is what distinguishes this cleaner. Affresh is the number one recommended brand by Whirlpool and KitchenAid, two well-known and trusted names in the industry. This speaks volumes about the reliability and effectiveness of the product. It’s comforting to know that both Affresh and the brands that recommend it are owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation, a company renowned for its commitment to quality.
Another aspect that impressed me is the nickel-safe formula used in the cleaner’s design. Many ice machines contain nickel components, and using a cleaner that is not specifically formulated to be nickel-safe can lead to damage or corrosion. With Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner, you can have peace of mind knowing that it is specially designed to protect your machine’s nickel components while effectively cleaning them.
Versatility is another advantage of this product. It is specialized to clean inside all freestanding ice machine makes and models, making it suitable for a wide range of machines. Whether you own a compact countertop ice maker or a larger standalone unit, this cleaner is up to the task.
Using the Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner is simple and hassle-free. The instructions are easy to follow, and you only need to use it every nine months or as needed, depending on your ice machine’s use and care instructions. This means you can maintain the cleanliness of your ice machine without dedicating too much time or effort to the process.
In conclusion, if you want to enjoy great-tasting ice and prolong the lifespan of your ice machine, the Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner is a must-have product. Its ability to remove hard water and mineral buildup, its trusted reputation, and its nickel-safe formula make it an excellent choice for any ice machine owner. Say goodbye to dull and unpleasant-tasting ice by giving Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner a try!
Nu-Calgon 428734 Ice Machine Cleaner 16 oz
The Nu-Calgon 428734 Ice Machine Cleaner is a highly effective and specially formulated product designed to tackle the common water-related problems that plague ice machines.
With its citric/phosphoric food-grade composition, this cleaner is specifically suitable for removing scale deposits from ice makers featuring nickel-plated or tin-plated evaporators.
It is compatible with machines manufactured by Manitowoc and other brands that utilize nickel components.
Pros
- This cleaner meets the important criteria of being food-grade and equipment-safe.
- The product provides a thorough cleaning solution, targeting various components of the ice machine.
Cons
- The Nu-Calgon 428734 Ice Machine Cleaner is recommended for use by HVACR professionals only.
- As an acid-based cleaner, it is important to handle this product with care and follow the provided instructions strictly.
Price at Edit Time – Amazon $17.69
The primary issue encountered by ice machines is the buildup of lime scale, which occurs as naturally occurring dissolved minerals in the water accumulated during the freezing process. As the ice maker continues its cycle, these minerals concentrate and eventually precipitate as stubborn lime scale deposits. The formation of scale can lead to various complications, including blocked distribution holes, restricted water flow, and even the jamming or malfunctioning of the ice maker. Over time, ice harvest is reduced, and the machine may cease to operate altogether, necessitating professional servicing.
It is worth noting that lime scale is not exclusive to cubers; flakes can also suffer from scale problems. Despite the misconception that all water is converted into ice in flakes, they too can become scaled-up, resulting in auger jamming and potential damage to the belt or drive mechanism. In such cases, cleaning the machine becomes imperative, and the use of an acid-based solution becomes necessary to dissolve the stubborn scale deposits.
Nu-Calgon 428734 Ice Machine Cleaner is not only highly effective at dissolving scale, but it also meets the important criteria of being food-grade and equipment-safe. This ensures that it is safe to use on ice machines without compromising the quality and integrity of the equipment or the ice produced.
In summary, the Nu-Calgon 428734 Ice Machine Cleaner is an exceptional product that offers professional-grade performance in tackling lime scale deposits in ice machines. It is a valuable asset for HVACR professionals in the food service industry.
Urnex Freez Ice Machine Cleaner
Are you tired of dealing with calcium build-up and stubborn residue in your commercial ice machine?
With its unique formula based on citric acid and a nickel-safe composition, this cleaning product is designed to tackle the toughest cleaning challenges while ensuring the safety of your equipment.
Pros
- The inclusion of a green dye in the formula provides a visual cue during the cleaning process.
- Each bottle of Urnex Freez contains enough solution for five uses, making it a cost-effective option for regular maintenance.
Cons
- The cleaner is scented with a nickel fragrance, which may not be appealing to some users who prefer unscented cleaning products
- Some users state that the process of scrubbing the stains off was not very easy.
Price at Edit Time – Amazon $11.93
Urnex Freez’s nickel-safe composition is one of its unique qualities. This means you can use it with confidence, knowing that it won’t cause any damage to the nickel components in your ice machine. The use of citric acid as the main ingredient not only enhances its effectiveness but also makes it non-toxic, ensuring a safer cleaning experience.
Whether you have a Whirlpool, Manitowac, Hoshisaki, Ice-O-Matic, Scotsman, Follett, ITV Makers, Wolf, Sub-Zero, or any other major ice machine brand, Urnex Freez is compatible with them all. Its versatility makes it a go-to choice for professional environments, providing a cycle and soak cleaning solution that delivers impressive results.
One feature that sets Urnex Freez apart is its visual clean cue. Thanks to the green dye in the formula, you get a visual cue during the cleaning process. This visual indication helps ensure thorough rinsing, leaving no traces of residue behind. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to a sparkling clean ice machine.
Each bottle of Urnex Freez contains enough solution for five uses, making it an economical choice for regular maintenance. You’ll appreciate its long-lasting nature, as it offers value for your money while keeping your ice machine in optimal condition.
To use Urnex Freez, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s a straightforward process that doesn’t require any special tools or expertise. Just apply the cleaner, let it work its magic, and rinse thoroughly. Enjoy the convenience and efficiency of a cleaner that does the hard work for you.
If you’re searching for a reliable and efficient ice machine cleaner, look no further than Urnex Freez Ice Machine Cleaner. With its compatibility across various major ice machine brands and its affordable price, Urnex Freez is a must-have cleaning product for commercial environments. Try it today and enjoy hassle-free maintenance of your ice machine!
Impresa Products Ice Machine Cleaner/Descaler
The Impresa Products Ice Machine Cleaner/Descaler is a highly effective and reliable solution for maintaining the cleanliness and optimal performance of your ice machine.
With over 1,000 customer ratings, this product has gained recognition for its exceptional quality.
Pros
- This cleaner is designed to work with virtually all types of icemakers
- Despite its powerful cleaning properties, this ice machine cleaner is gentle and 100% nickel-safe.
Cons
- Is an aftermarket product produced by Impresa Products.
- Some customers mention that there is no noticeable difference after using the Impresa Products Ice Machine Cleaner/Descaler.
Price at Edit Time – Amazon $11.99
Regularly cleaning and descaling your ice machine is crucial in order to eliminate limescale and hard water mineral deposits, which can lead to corrosion and negatively impact the taste of your ice. By using this ice machine cleaner, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your machine while enhancing the quality and flavor of your ice.
Its universal interoperability is one of this product’s best qualities. Designed to work with virtually all types of icemakers, including countertop, commercial, under-counter, portable, nugget, crushed, pellet, vending, flake, residential, industrial, and automatic machines, this cleaner offers versatility and convenience. It is custom-formulated to cater to the needs of various major brands such as Scotsman, Manitowoc, Kitchen Aid, Hoshizaki, FSP, Sub Zero, GE, Whirlpool, and more.
The Impresa Products Ice Machine Cleaner/Descaler is not only powerful and effective but also gentle on your machine. It is 100% nickel-safe, ensuring that it will not cause any harm or damage while effectively removing limescale and mineral deposits. In fact, this product has been proven to meet or exceed the efficacy of other nickel-safe ice maker cleaners through rigorous in-house testing.
You can trust the quality of this ice machine cleaner as it is proudly made in the USA. Each bottle provides you with four uses, and for optimal results, it is recommended to use the scale remover every 2-3 months.
Please note that this is an aftermarket product produced by Impresa Products, and it is not affiliated with or endorsed by any of the other mentioned manufacturers.
Consider This When Purchasing an Ice Machine Cleaner
When looking for the best ice machine cleaners, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:
- Effectiveness: Look for cleaners that are specifically formulated to remove mineral deposits, scale, and bacteria commonly found in ice machines. Ensure that the cleaner you choose is effective in thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing the machine.
- Safety: Consider cleaners that are food-safe and approved by relevant regulatory bodies, such as the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). This ensures that the cleaner won’t leave any harmful residue that could contaminate the ice or pose a risk to consumers.
- Ease of use: Look for cleaners that are easy to use and require minimal effort. Some cleaners may come in convenient ready-to-use formats, while others may require dilution. Consider your preference and convenience when selecting a cleaner.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the cleaner is compatible with the type of ice machine you have. Some cleaners may be suitable for all types of ice machines, while others may be specific to certain models or brands. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult the ice machine’s manual for guidance.
- Odor control: Ice machine cleaners can have strong odors due to their cleaning agents. Look for cleaners that have odor-control properties or leave behind a pleasant scent after cleaning.
- Reviews and recommendations: Check customer reviews and recommendations from reputable sources to get an idea of the effectiveness and user experience of different ice machine cleaners. This can help you make an informed decision based on real-world experiences.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any ice machine cleaner to ensure proper and safe cleaning of your ice machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about ice machines and the best cleaners.
Can I Clean My Ice Machine Without Using a Cleaner?
While regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary for ice machines, using a dedicated ice machine cleaner is highly recommended.
The specialized cleaners are designed to effectively remove mineral scale, lime deposits, and other contaminants that may be difficult to clean with regular household products.
They provide a more thorough and effective cleaning, helping to maintain the performance and longevity of your ice machine.
How Often Should I Clean My Ice Machine?
The frequency of cleaning depends on the specific ice machine and its usage. Generally, it is recommended to clean and sanitize the machine at least every six months.
However, in environments with higher usage or in areas with poor water quality, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended cleaning schedule for your specific ice machine model.
Why Is It Important to Clean My Ice Machine Regularly?
Cleaning your ice machine regularly is essential to maintaining the quality and safety of the ice produced.
Over time, ice machines can accumulate mineral deposits, scale, mold, and bacteria, which can affect the taste and odor of the ice.
Cleaning helps remove these contaminants, ensuring that the ice is clean, clear, and safe for consumption.