Continuous Control of Contamination in Ice Machines
Low-level chlorine dioxide gas is the most effective way to maintain clean ice machines over time. CleanAir systems release a controlled, continuous flow of ClO₂ gas within the machine that:
- Inhibits growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, and algae
- Penetrates internal airspaces and hard-to-reach surfaces
- Prevents reformation of biofilm between cleanings
- Eliminates odor and organic buildup without residue
Unlike traditional methods, this is not periodic treatment.
It is continuous environmental control inside the machine
Broad-Spectrum Pathogen Control
Chlorine dioxide provides strong efficacy against key organisms relevant to ice systems, including:
- E. coli
- Listeria monocytogenes
- Legionella pneumophila
Demonstrated performance includes up to 5-log (99.999%) microbial reduction, supporting both food safety and water quality requirements.
Supporting Role of Liquid Chlorine Dioxide
While gas-phase treatment maintains the system, liquid chlorine dioxide is used strategically to:
- Clean and reset contaminated machines
- Treat waterlines and incoming water
- Remove existing biofilm prior to implementing continuous control
This establishes a clean baseline, allowing gas-phase ClO₂ to maintain system stability moving forward.
Case Study: Major Orlando Resort
In a large hospitality environment, ice machines were identified as a recurring contamination source driven by:
- Biofilm development
- Microbial growth in enclosed internal components
- Inconsistent and labor-intensive cleaning cycles
After implementing a chlorine dioxide program centered on continuous gas-phase treatment, supported by initial liquid cleaning:
- Microbial counts dropped from consistently detectable levels to near or below detection limits across monitored machines
- Visible slime, mold, and internal buildup were eliminated within the system during the treatment period
- Cleaning frequency was reduced as machines remained stable between service intervals
- Ice quality improved, with no detectable off-odor or visual contamination
The key outcome was not just initial reduction, but ongoing control without rebound contamination.
See full case study here.
Operational Impact
With continuous chlorine dioxide gas treatment:
- Ice machines remain cleaner between service intervals
- Deep cleaning becomes less frequent and less intensive
- Ice quality remains consistent over time
- Risk of contamination-related issues is reduced
Bottom Line
Cleaning an ice machine does not prevent contamination.
Controlling the environment does.
Gas-phase chlorine dioxide maintains a clean system continuously, while liquid treatment supports initial cleaning and water quality.
Both have a role, but long-term performance is driven by continuous environmental control.
See how foodservice and ice production facilities use Ultra-Pure ClO₂ to maintain cleaner ice machines, control microbial growth, and improve ice quality between cleanings.
Contact us at 1 (855) 256-8299 | inquiry@selectivemicro.com