Eight easy energy-saving ideas to reduce your ice machine’s energy and water consumptionBuy ice machines that have earned the ENERGY STAR, they are approximately 15% more energy efficient and 10% more water efficient than standard models. ENERGY STAR qualified ice machines can save over in utilities a year. Click here for a listing of ENERGY STAR qualified Manitowoc ice machines. Before you purchase, think about where you will need to place your ice machine. Many ice machines need clearance space around the sides of machine for proper ventilation. Place the ice machine in a cool location. Placing it next to heat-generating kitchen appliances will force the ice machine to work harder. The harder it has to work, the more energy it consumes. Change your water filters every six months. Mineral deposits and slime growth on filters will have an adverse effect on ice production levels. De-lime at regular intervals. If water flow in the ice machine becomes restricted due to built-up mineral deposits, the ice machine takes longer to run through its cycles. Taking time to routinely remove scale buildup will keep it working efficiently and saves money in energy expenses. Or, purchase a unit that offers automatic cleaning/de-liming capabilities. Purchase an ice machine with a “harvest assist” feature. Harvest assist technology speeds the release of ice from machine to storage bin shortening both ice production cycle times and consumed energy per cycle. Look for components, parts, and surfaces that make the ice machine easier to access and clean. Ice machines run more efficiently when they are clean. To help keep ice machines cleaner between cleanings, look for ice machines that have built-in antimicrobial materials to resist the growth of bacteria and reduce the need for sanitation. Check to see if your state offers rebate programs on ice machines. Rebates can reduce a significant portion of your initial cost. |