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Introduction

Keeping hospital ice machines clean and sanitised is crucial for ensuring patient safety and preventing contamination. Hospitals rely on ice to treat injuries and serve patients, so the ice must be free from harmful bacteria and germs.

Regular Maintenance and sanitation helps keep the ice machine in top working condition. Understanding the importance of maintaining hospital ice machines is the first step. Knowing how to do it properly is just as important. Whether you are a facility manager or part of the maintenance team, following the proper steps ensures that the machine remains clean, safe, and efficient.

Importance of Regular Sanitisation for Hospital Ice Machines

Regular sanitisation of hospital ice machines is essential for maintaining a safe and hygienic environment. If not cleaned regularly, ice machines can harbour bacteria, mould, and other harmful contaminants. These microorganisms can affect patients' health, especially those with weakened immune systems.

• Preventing Contamination: Hospitals must adhere to strict hygiene standards to protect patients. One effective method is using a bacterial-retentive inline water filter, such as the Coast CD500B, which serves as a validated barrier against waterborne bacteria in incoming water.

• Maintaining Ice Quality: Regular maintenance prevents the build-up of slime and debris in the ice machine. Using the correct chemicals, such as Follett Safe Clean Plus, ensures the machine stays free of bacteria and scale build-up. This practice guarantees that the ice remains clear, odourless, and tasteless.

• Extending Machine Lifespan: Regular maintenance and sanitisation can extend the lifespan of an ice machine. These practices prevent mechanical issues caused by dirt and scale build-up. A well-maintained machine works efficiently and reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Understanding the critical role these machines play in patient care, and the potential risks of neglecting their maintenance highlights the importance of regular sanitisation. Hospitals must prioritise this task to ensure safety, quality, and reliability.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning and Sanitising Hospital Ice Machines

Cleaning and sanitising hospital ice machines involves several steps to ensure thoroughness. At Coast, we emphasise that following a consistent and detailed process helps maintain hygiene and ice quality.

As Australia's leading supplier of Follett ice machines for healthcare applications, we at Coast Distributors provide this comprehensive guide for cleaning and sanitising the Symphony Plus™ series, designed specifically for hospital use.

1. Preparation: Preparation: Gather the necessary supplies, including our Follett Safe Clean Plus Liquid, which we stock for both cleaning and sanitising.

2. Safety First: We always recommend turning off and unplugging the ice machine before cleaning. Ensure staff wear appropriate personal protective equipment as per hospital protocols.

3. Ice Removal: Empty the storage bin completely. We advise discarding all ice to prevent any potential contamination.

4. Maintenance Mode: Maintenance Mode: For our Symphony Plus™ models, press and hold the maintenance/clean switch until "MAINTENANCE" appears on the user interface.

5. Disassembly: Remove the front cover, storage bin, and any removable parts as outlined in the machine's manual. If you need assistance, our team is always available to guide you.

6. Cleaning Solution: Mix our Safe Clean Plus Liquid with warm water according to the instructions we provide with the product.

7. Component Cleaning: We recommend thoroughly cleaning all removed parts with the solution, paying special attention to the ice storage bin and dispenser components.

8. Interior Cleaning: Wipe down all interior surfaces with the cleaning solution. Our machines are designed for easy access, but ensure no areas are missed.

9. Sanitising: Use the same Safe Clean Plus Liquid for sanitising. We've formulated it to be effective for both cleaning and sanitising, simplifying the process for you.

10. Rinsing: Rinse all cleaned and sanitised surfaces with fresh, potable water. This step is crucial to remove any residual cleaning agents.

11. Reassembly: Once dry, reassemble all components. For our Symphony Plus™ models, ensure the dispense wheel is properly reengaged.

12. Restart: Exit maintenance mode by pressing the power switch to restart the machine.

13. Initial Ice Discard: We recommend running the machine for about 15 minutes, then discarding the first batch of ice produced.

14. Maintenance Schedule: At Coast Distributors, we recommend cleaning and sanitising hospital ice machines at least every six months. For high-risk areas, we suggest more frequent cleaning.

15. Water Filtration: Water Filtration: We offer water filtration systems that can improve water quality and reduce cleaning frequency. Our team can advise on the best options for your facility.

16. Professional Servicing: Professional Servicing: While regular cleaning can be performed by trained hospital staff, we at Coast Distributors offer professional servicing for more complex maintenance needs.

17. Documentation: We strongly advise maintaining a cleaning log for each ice machine. This is crucial for hospital accreditation and quality control.

18. Staff Training: Our team at Coast Distributors can provide guidance on proper cleaning and maintenance procedures for your hospital staff, ensuring compliance with hygiene standards.

19. Additional Products: For more intensive cleaning needs, we also stock Lime Scale Remover and Sanitiser tablets.

At Coast Distributors, we're committed to helping you maintain the highest standards of hygiene in your ice production. Our products and services are designed to ensure your Follett ice machines produce safe, high-quality ice for patient care while contributing to your overall infection control efforts. 

If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to contact our expert team.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sanitising Ice Machines

Avoiding common mistakes during sanitisation is essential to keep hospital ice machines clean and safe. Here’s a list of common errors and how to avoid them:

• Skipping Regular Cleaning: Many overlook the importance of regular cleaning. Ice machines need consistent maintenance to prevent bacterial build-up. Ensure a regular cleaning schedule is in place and adhered to.

• Using the Wrong Cleaners: Not all cleaning products suit ice machines. Using improper cleaners can damage the machine or leave residues. Always use cleaners recommended by the manufacturer.

• Neglecting Hard-to-Reach Areas: Some parts of the ice machine, especially internal components, are difficult to reach. If not cleaned, bacteria can grow in these areas. Make sure to clean every part thoroughly, including all nooks and crannies.

• Not Following Manufacturer Instructions: Each ice machine is different. Failing to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and sanitising instructions can result in improper maintenance. Always refer to the manual for specific guidance.

• Rushing the Process: Sanitising takes time. Rushing through the steps can lead to incomplete cleaning. Allocate sufficient time for each cleaning session to ensure thoroughness.

• Using Contaminated Tools: Using dirty or improperly sanitised tools can reintroduce contaminants. Make sure all cleaning tools are clean and sanitised before use.

By avoiding these common mistakes, hospital staff can ensure that ice machines remain clean and efficient. Proper sanitisation helps maintain a high hygiene standard and extends the machine's life.

Recommended Sanitising Products and Tools for Hospital Ice Machines

Using the right sanitising products and tools is crucial for effective cleaning. Here are some recommended options to ensure thorough sanitisation.

• Ice Machine Cleaner and Sanitiser: For Follett ice and water dispensers, we recommend Follett Safe Clean Plus, which serves as both a cleaner and sanitiser. This dual-purpose product saves time and money by eliminating the need for separate cleaning and sanitising agents. Follett Safe Clean Plus effectively removes scale, slime, and other residues while also killing bacteria and germs, ensuring thorough disinfection and keeping the ice safe for patient use.

• Hospital-Grade Effectiveness: Follett Safe Clean Plus is specifically formulated for use in healthcare settings, meeting the stringent requirements for hospital-grade sanitisers. It's strong enough to ensure thorough disinfection while being safe for use on food-contact surfaces.

• Soft Brushes and Scrubbers: Soft brushes and scrubbers help to clean delicate parts without damaging the machine. They can reach tight areas and effectively remove grime and build-up.

• Microfibre Cloths: Use microfibre cloths to wipe down surfaces. They are gentle and don’t leave lint behind. Microfibre cloths are also great for drying parts after cleaning.

• Water Filters: Replace water filters regularly to ensure a clean water supply. Clean water is crucial for producing high-quality, safe ice. Make sure the filters are compatible with your machine model.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Staff should wear gloves, masks, and protective eyewear during cleaning. PPE protects against exposure to cleaning chemicals and contaminants.

Using these recommended products and tools ensures effective cleaning and sanitisation of hospital ice machines. This helps maintain high hygiene standards and provides safe ice for patients.

Conclusion

Sanitising hospital ice machines regularly is vital for patient safety and overall operational efficiency. Regular sanitisation prevents the build-up of harmful bacteria, ensures high-quality ice production, and extends the machine’s lifespan. Following a detailed cleaning and sanitising process, hospital staff can maintain these essential appliances in top condition.

Avoiding common mistakes during sanitisation helps make the process more effective, ensuring no missed areas and the right products are used. Investing in proper sanitising products and tools further enhances the effectiveness of the cleaning routine. Keeping hospital ice machines clean is fundamental to providing safe and quality patient care.

Visit Coast Distributors for reliable ice solutions and expert guidance on maintaining hospital ice machines. Explore our range of quality products designed to meet your needs and ensure a safe, hygienic environment for your patients.

By avoiding these common mistakes, hospital staff can ensure that ice machines remain clean and efficient. Proper sanitisation helps maintain a high hygiene standard and extends the machine's life.