Understanding ITV Ice Machine Parts and Repairs

Understanding ITV Ice Machine Parts

Ice machines are complex pieces of commercial equipment that use refrigeration and water flow systems to produce ice for hotels, restaurants, hospitals, schools, and other food service venues. One of the top manufacturers of ice machines is ITV. Keeping an ITV ice machine running properly relies on quality replacement parts and preventative maintenance.

Common ITV Ice Machine Components

Some of the key components in an ITV ice machine that may require replacement parts over time include:

• Water inlet valves - Controls water flow into the machine
• Water filters - Removes impurities from input water
• Evaporator assemblies - Freezes water to form ice
• Thermostats - Monitors freezer temperatures
• Bearings and gears - Allows internal augers to turn
• Ice thickness sensors - Monitors ice size and thickness
• Controls boards - Manages timing and ice production

When to Replace Parts

Many business owners wait until an ITV ice machine stops working completely before looking into replacement parts. However, that can lead to expensive emergency service calls and long equipment downtimes. It's better to be proactive about ITV ice machine maintenance.

Some signs it may be time to replace common ITV ice machine parts include:

• Ice output decreases over time
• Ice cubes are the wrong size or consistency
• Cloudy or soft ice is produced
• Equipment is noisy during the ice making process
• Water leaks around base of unit
• Mineral scale buildup on internal components

Where to Order Replacement ITV Ice Machine Parts

There are a few options when it comes to finding quality OEM replacement parts for your ITV ice machines including:

• Direct from the Manufacturer - Going directly through the ITV website allows you to search for parts diagrams. However, direct pricing is not published.
• Commercial Kitchen Supply Companies - Many supply companies specialize in OEM parts for brands like ITV. They often provide fast shipping.
• Online Parts Retailers - Websites like WebstaurantStore allow you to search OEM ITV parts and check live inventory and pricing.
• EBay & Amazon - You can sometimes find new and used ITV ice machine parts for sale on eBay and Amazon marketplaces.

Common ITV Ice Machine Repairs

In additional to needing replacement of individual failing parts, there are a few repairs that seem to come up frequently with ITV ice machines based on their design and usage. Being familiar with these repairs can help identify underlying issues.

Water Inlet Valve Replacement

The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the ice machine for the freezing process. Over time, mineral deposits can cause them to fail to open fully or close completely. This leads to a lack of water flow, intermittent production, or leaks. Replacing the water inlet valve will often resolve these ice machine problems. Be sure to fully clean out any additional limescale from the system when replacing this part.

Pump Repair

Many ITV ice machines rely on a water pump to move water between the reservoir and evaporator plates where freezing occurs. Like any mechanical component, these internal water pumps are subject to wear or sticking from mineral deposits. A pump losing power or not turning consistently can greatly reduce ice output. In some cases, the pump impellers and bearings need to be replaced. In other cases, cleaning mineral deposits restores pump flow rates.

Evaporator Assembly Repair

The evaporator assembly contains the freezing plates where chilled ethylene glycol solution removes heat from the water to transform it into ice. Scale buildup on the plates over time reduces heat transfer efficiency lowering ice capacity. Refrigerant leaks or evaporator leaks also create performance issues. Replacing a faulty evaporator assembly often requires removing panels for access. Working with an experienced commercial ice machine repair company is advisable for this complex repair.

Water Filter Replacement

Most ITV ice machines have a replaceable water filter that removes sediment and chlorine from the incoming water supply before freezing. Water filters need changed based on accumulated run time or reductions in water flow to the unit. Use OEM water filters from ITV to maintain optimal equipment performance and longevity when replacing this maintenance component.

ITV Ice Machine Cleaning Basics

In additional to quality replacement parts, proper cleaning is key to avoiding scale related ITV ice machine failures. Regular cleanings reduce mineral scale, algae, and bacterial buildup. Cleanings may also help align components that can shift over time degrading performance. Work with your equipment provider to establish an appropriate cleaning schedule for your ice machine based on local water quality and usage levels.

Methods of Cleaning

There are three basic methods of cleaning an ITV ice machine:

1. Off-line chemical cleanings - Involves an ice machine cleaner pumped through while shut down
2. On-line chemical cleanings - Cleaner added to the reservoir for circulation during ice making
3. Descaling heat cleanings - Heating elements boil out some mineral deposits

Combining these methods is more effective than relying on any one alone. Always follow the chemical manufacturer’s dilution guidelines when cleaning to avoid equipment damage or ice contamination.

Cleaning Components

Pay special attention to the following areas when cleaning an ITV ice machine:

• Water distribution tubing
• Reservoir walls
• Freezing plates
• Water pumps
• Water filters

Allow pumps and tubing to fully drain between cleanings when possible. Rinsing out visible loose scale prevents future buildup. Be sure all cleaner is fully flushed before resuming ice production.

Cleaning Precautions

Take care with the following when cleaning and maintaining your ITV ice machine:

• Disconnect power before major repairs
• Allow compressors to cool before servicing
• Wear rubber gloves when handling cleaners
• Contain and dispose of used cleaning solution properly

Your diligence helps ensure both food safety and worker safety when caring for your vital ice equipment.

FAQs

What are common signs my ITV ice machine needs repairs?

Decreased ice output, misshapen or cloudy ice cubes, loud noises during operation, leaking water, and excessive mineral scale buildup indicate potential parts failures needing repair in an ITV ice machine.

Where can I order replacement parts for my ITV ice maker?

OEM ITV ice machine parts are available directly through the ITV website, from commercial kitchen supply companies, online parts retailers like WebstaurantStore, and sometimes on eBay or Amazon marketplaces.

How often should I clean my commercial ITV ice machine?

An appropriate cleaning frequency depends on local water quality and machine usage levels. Consult your equipment provider for recommended cleaning intervals using chemical circulations and descaling heat methods.

What safety precautions should I take when maintaining an ITV ice maker?

Disconnect power prior to repairs, allow compressors to fully cool before servicing, use rubber gloves with cleaners, and contain/dispose of cleaning solutions properly to ensure food and worker safety.