Ice Machines Can Be Deadly
There is nothing that can get a hotel or restaurant to lose customers than pests in their establishment. One of the most common trouble spots in either business is an ice machine. While overlooked as a potential problem area, an ice machine can be a breeding ground of bacteria and the pests that love them.
You would think that pests would NOT love these areas. You would be right if you were just thinking about the inside of the machine where ice is deposited. Overlooked are areas that help create the ice, such as the machine’s compressor and condenser. These locations get very hot and cockroaches, mice, rats and ants love to build nests around these areas. Eventually, these critters become so plentiful that your machine develops an infestation. Then, these pests wander into your ice and ruin your whole ice supply. How can we keep them away?
No Entry Points
Avoiding these problems can be done by simple maintenance after fully inspecting the site where your ice machine is located. Clearcut Pest Control technicians can do a walk through of your location to find any areas where potential pest entry is possible. Something as simple as a door sweep can keep critters out. Walls with holes can be a source of problems. Closing them can go a long way towards keeping pests out.
Keep The Ice Machine and Floor Dry
Maintaining a consistently dry environment around the ice machine is crucial in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. Even more importantly, it deters pests. Therefore, we highly recommend assigning a dedicated staff member to regularly monitor the ice machine. They will ensure not only the exterior of the machine, but also the surrounding floor area remains dry at all times. This proactive step is essential in guaranteeing a hygienic and safe environment for all.
Cleaning Your Machine
Commercial kitchens, hotels and motels would benefit by having a professional clean the interior parts of the ice machine (compressor and condenser areas) every 6 months. Dust build up combined with moisture is again a breeding ground for mice, ants and cockroaches. Cleaning them gives those pests nowhere to stay.
Ice Machine Interior Cleaning
One of the best ways to keep your ice machine pest free is to schedule a monthly interior cleaning. This will remove any bacteria build up. In addition, should stray pests find their way to your machine, this method will eliminate any chance of infestation.
Bait Stations
At Clearcut, we believe planning and prevention go hand in hand. We strategically use bait stations as a means of eliminating mice or rats BEFORE they become a problem. A bait station near your ice machine may solve any possible problem before it starts.
When we visit, an audit of your kitchen or hotel is done by our technicians. This will reveal to you any potential problem areas on your property. We also inform you of things you are doing well to stay pest free. These methods will keep your customers happy and ice machines clean.
Need help or an audit to see how well you’re doing? Call us or fill out our contact form and we’ll get you started!
