Putting a commercial ice machine outside is a bit of a problem. What’s the old adage…”never say never?” Sticking by that, we’ll say we rarely put an ice machine outside for two reasons:
- The area is not a controlled environment.
- The area is not secure.
As noted in numerous FAQs, ice machines need a cooler, low-humidity environment in order for the refrigeration components to operate properly. So, leaving an unprotected outside in the heat and sun is never advisable. However, below freezing is bad for the equipment as well.
We’ve done both and we’ve learned from our mistakes. Outside areas also introduce dust and dirt that are not typically present indoors. These are the reasons we rarely place one of our ice machine outside.
To perform optimally, ice makers should be inside, in a temperate and protected area. If the temperature around the ice machine is too hot, it won’t produce ice well. If it’s too cold, you will also have performance issues.
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Easy Ice buys the ice machines for our customers. We take the capital risk and want our ice makers to have long lifespans. That’s why subscriptions include preventive maintenance, cleanings, repairs and standard water filter replacements.
We expect our ice machines to be housed in an area conducive to their productivity. Putting commercial ice machines outside is generally not a good choice.
For these reasons, it is very rare that we put an ice machine outside.
Our Customer Service team can assist you with any questions you may have about ice machines. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year at our U.S.-based customer service center.