Manitowoc ice machines are some of the most reliable on the market, but as with any type of appliance, they can occasionally run into problems. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide for troubleshooting Manitowoc ice machine. 

Whether your machine isn’t producing enough ice or the ice it is producing is of too poor quality, this guide will help you identify the problem and get your machine up and running again in no time. Plus, we’ve included a few tips for keeping your Manitowoc ice machine in top condition, so you can enjoy years of trouble-free operation.

Troubleshooting Manitowoc Ice Machine

There are quite a few causes why your Manitowoc ice maker might be acting up, from a dirty water filter or condenser, to the SafeGuard feature stopping the machine from running. And while most of these issues can be corrected quickly, sometimes you might still need to call a service repairman to take care of it for you.

Ice Machine Does Not Operate

The possible causes why your ice machine is not operating might be the following –

• No electrical power to the ice machine or the control board fuse is open: In this case, replace the fuse or reset the breaker. Also try to turn on the main power switch or plug cord into a receptacle.
• ICE/OFF/CLEAN toggle switch set improperly: To set the machine, simply move the toggle switch to the ICE position.
• Bin level sensor is disconnected or is contacting the ice: To solve this, connect the bin level sensor or remove ice contacting probe.
• High pressure control is open: Clean condenser, check fan motor, or check high pressure control operation. Check for refrigerant overcharge or non-condensable in the system.

Gear Motor Runs but the Compressor Won’t Start

The possible causes why this happens might be the following –

• Water reservoir is empty: To correct this, open the water service valve or clean the float valve screen. Check the water level probe. Water must contact the water level probe to start the compressor).
• Water level probes out of position: Correct water level probe position.

Ice Quality Has Gone Poor

The possible causes why your ice machine is producing poor quality ice might be the following –

• Incoming water quality is poor: In this case, check the water filter. 9 out of 10 times, it’s a dirty water filter that causes the ice to taste and smell bad. Try cleaning the water filter, or replacing it with a new one.
• Incoming water temperature is above 90°F (32.3°C): Correct water temperature or make sure you’ve connected the ice machine to a cold water supply.
• Water pressure is too low: Water pressure must remain between 20 and 80 psig.

Ice Production is Extremely Low

The possible causes why your ice machine has decreased production might be the following –

• Water float valve screen is dirty, stuck open or leaking: In this case, simply remove and clean the filter screen if it needs cleaning. Try replacing it with a new one in case it is damaged.
• Incoming water supply is shut-off: Open the water service valve.
• Water dump valve is leaking: Clean the dump valve.
• Water Pressure is low or Incoming water temperature is above 90°F (32.3°C): Like we explained earlier, the water pressure must remain between 20 and 80 psig. And make sure the ice machine is connected to a cold water supply.

In Case of Air Cooled Models

Objects stacked around the ice machine, blocking airflow to the condenser might result in a decrease in ice production. So wherever you place it, make sure there is enough space for the air to go around the ice machine.

Another reason could be high air temperature around the ice machine. Make sure the air temperature does not exceed 110°F (43.3°C). Lastly, check for a dirty condenser, and make sure you clean it at least once every year.

So there you have it. If all else fails, then you know it’s time to call for an expert to look into your unit. Fortunately, for folks in Houston, we’re here to help! Whether you’re looking for a Manitowoc, Scotsman or Ice-O-Matic Ice Machine Repair Service, Cool Results has got you covered. Check out our page to book a service today.