Have you ever wondered how important it is to keep refrigeration units and ice machines clean in a commercial kitchen? Every day, chefs prepare bulk orders to serve dozens or even hundreds of customers. And they rely on these machines to store things like vegetables, dairy, meats, sauces, and pre-cooked items safely. Since these appliances run round the clock, they easily collect grease, food spills, moisture, and bacteria from constant use. If not cleaned regularly, this buildup can often cause bad odors, contaminate food, and can even lead to serious health risks. Therefore, regular cleaning of refrigeration and ice equipment in the right way is highly recommended. So, let’s explore the simple routine and the easy steps you can follow to keep your refrigeration and ice equipment in intact condition in order to help your kitchen run smoothly.
Clean Refrigeration and Ice Equipment in an Easy Way
Keeping your refrigeration and ice machines clean might sound like a daunting task, but it is actually quite simple when done the right way. With Denson CFE, regular care not only keeps your kitchen hygienic but also helps your equipment last longer and work better. To help you in an easy way as well as save your time, here are the steps listed below:
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Always Turn Off and Unplug the Machine
Before you start cleaning, make sure the machine is completely turned off and unplugged. Safety should always come first. If it is a commercial unit wired into a power panel, shut it down using the circuit breaker. This step protects you from any risk of electric shock and also keeps the equipment safe during cleaning. Turning it off also lets the internal temperature rise a bit, which helps loosen up dirt, grease, and buildup, making them easier to clean.
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Remove All Items from Inside
The next step is to take everything out from the fridge or ice machine before starting the cleaning process. This includes all food items stored in the smallwares, drinks, and any ice that may be inside. You should place these items in a clean cooler or ice box to keep them safe and fresh while you clean. Also, removing everything from the machine gives you enough space to clean properly and also helps prevent any kind of mix-up or contamination. As you remove the items, take a moment to check their expiry dates. Throw away anything that is spoiled or no longer safe to use. This is also a good opportunity to sort the items and organize them better before placing them back after cleaning.
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Take Out Shelves, Bins, and Removable Parts
Refrigerators and ice machines usually have removable trays, drawers, or racks. Take each one out carefully to avoid cracking or damage. These parts tend to gather crumbs, spills, and residue. Wash them separately in warm soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge. Allow them to air dry on a clean towel before reassembling.
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Always Choose a Food-Safe Cleaning Solution
The restaurant owners or chefs are usually recommended to use only mild, food-safe cleaners that are approved for kitchen use. Strong chemicals like bleach can leave behind harmful residue and should be avoided unless specifically allowed. Moreover, a simple mixture of warm water and dish soap works well. You can simply spray the cleaner onto all surfaces and let it sit for a minute to loosen up stains or sticky areas and then wipe it off.
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Wipe Down Interior Surfaces Thoroughly
After removing all the items, the next step is to clean the inside of the unit. Use a soft cloth or a non-abrasive sponge to gently wipe the interior walls, floor, and ceiling. This helps remove any dirt, spills, or residue left behind. Make sure to focus on the corners and small spaces, as grime often builds up in these hidden areas. If you find any tough stains, apply a little extra cleaner and rub gently in a circular motion until the surface looks clean. As you continue, keep checking your cleaning clothes or sponge too often. If it gets too dirty, switch to a clean one to avoid spreading dirt to other parts of the unit.
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Clean the Rubber Door Seals Carefully
Once the inside of the unit is clean, do not forget to clean the rubber door seals. These seals, also called door gaskets, are often missed during cleaning but are very important for the proper working of the machine. They can trap moisture, food crumbs, and grease over time, which can lead to mold or bad smell if not cleaned.
Use a damp cloth with mild soap to gently wipe along the seals, making sure to clean both the surface and the folds. For narrow or hard-to-reach areas, you can use a soft toothbrush or a cotton swab to remove hidden dirt. Keeping the door seals clean helps the door close properly, which maintains the right temperature and improves energy efficiency.
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Dry Every Surface Completely
When all the surfaces are cleaned, the next important step is to dry them properly. Use a clean microfiber cloth or a dry towel to wipe down every part of the interior. This helps remove any leftover moisture that could lead to mold, mildew, or unpleasant smells. Be sure to check corners, shelves, and door seals, as these areas tend to hold extra moisture. Take your time to dry everything thoroughly. Never restock or reassemble the unit while it is still damp, as this can affect both cleanliness and performance.
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Clean the Exterior and Handles
The exterior surfaces of the kitchen equipment, especially the handles and control panels, often collect fingerprints, grease, and dust from frequent use. To clean these parts properly, prepare a mild cleaning solution such as diluted dish soap in warm water. Dip a soft cloth into the solution, wring out excess water, and gently wipe down all the high-touch areas, including the buttons, handles, and surrounding panels.
Take your time to make sure no spot is missed. Once the surfaces are clean, use a dry microfiber cloth or soft towel to remove any moisture and give the surface a streak-free finish. This not only keeps the equipment looking neat but also helps maintain hygiene in the kitchen.
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Sanitize the Ice Bin and Inner Surfaces
For ice machines, hygiene is even more critical. Bacteria can easily grow inside if cleaning is ignored. After turning off the unit and removing all ice, scrub the bin with warm water and mild detergent. Rinse well and then spray or wipe down using a food-safe sanitizer. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it dry. Make sure no chemical smell remains.
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Run the Machine’s Self-Cleaning Cycle
Most modern ice machines are equipped with a built-in self-cleaning cycle that makes the process much easier. To begin, check the user manual and use the recommended cleaning solution that is safe for your specific model. Pour the correct amount of cleaning solution into the machine’s designated compartment, then start the self-cleaning cycle using the control panel. The machine will clean its internal components by removing scale, mineral deposits, and residue. Once the cleaning cycle is complete, rinse the machine properly.
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Inspect and Clean the Water or Air Filters
The refrigeration and ice systems of top brands such as Koolaire and True International come with filters that trap dirt, grease, or water impurities. These filters can clog over time and affect the machine’s performance. Remove the filter, check its condition, and clean it if it’s reusable. If it’s a replaceable type, install a new one. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance.
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Reassemble All Parts Carefully
Once every piece is clean and dry, it’s time to put everything back in place. Slide the trays, racks, and drawers into their proper positions. Make sure the seals and gaskets are dry and properly attached. Turn the machine back on and allow it to reach its normal temperature before restocking.
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Restart and Test the Equipment
Power on the unit and observe how it runs for a few minutes. Make sure the cooling starts properly and the fans are working smoothly. For ice machines, wait for the first batch of ice to form and discard it to make sure any leftover cleaner is removed. Only refill with fresh items once the machine is back to regular operation.
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Create a Regular Cleaning Routine
To keep kitchen equipment in good condition, it’s important to follow a regular cleaning routine. Light cleaning should be done daily to remove dust, spills, and surface grease before it builds up. Deep cleaning should be scheduled weekly or every two weeks, depending on how often the equipment is used. Having a clear cleaning schedule in the kitchen helps all staff stay informed and on track. When this routine is followed consistently, it keeps the equipment working well and helps prevent major repairs in the future.
Furthermore, if you notice strange noises, leaks, or weak cooling even after cleaning, make an immediate call to a professional. As some parts inside refrigeration and ice machines need expert handling. Scheduling professional servicing once or twice a year adds another layer of care and prevents sudden breakdowns.
In the end,
Denson CFE is a trusted name across Canada, offering everything from everyday kitchen essentials, refrigeration, and smallwares to barware, chef clothing, and restaurant furniture. You can visit our website and choose products from reputable brands such as Habco, True Manufacturing, Cambro, Omcan, and many more. All of our kitchen products are reliable, built to last, and a smart choice for any foodservice operation looking to balance quality and cost. To prioritize customer satisfaction, we offer local pickup in Regina and fast delivery across Saskatchewan and Western Canada.
