Not making ice at all MOST COMMON Machine runs but produces no ice | $240–$440 + parts per diagnosis | Water inlet valve (scale clog — cleaning often fixes), evaporator check, refrigerant, harvest valve. Water supply and filter check first. |
Slow ice production Low output, takes much longer per batch | $200–$360 Often no parts — scale/filter | Scale buildup on evaporator plates (descaling), clogged water distribution tubes, water filter replacement. LA hard water primary cause. |
Ice machine cleaning & descaling Routine maintenance or scale-caused performance issue | $200–$300 Per unit · no parts needed | Full descaling of evaporator, water circuit, distribution system. Recommended every 3–6 months in LA. Prevents premature failure. |
Deep cleaning with chemicals Heavy scale, slime or a machine not cleaned in a year or more | $450–$620 Per unit · chemicals included | Machine taken down to the evaporator and water circuit, manufacturer-approved scale remover and sanitizer, full rinse and a production check before we leave. |
Water leak Water on floor, leaking from unit | $200–$360 + valve or drain if needed | Water inlet valve, drain valve, water distribution tube, drain line clearing. |
Ice quality issues Cloudy, soft, or malformed ice cubes | $180–$320 Often no parts — filter/scale | Water filter replacement, descaling, water supply pressure check. Cloudy ice in LA is almost always a hard water issue. |
Harvest failure Ice not dropping from evaporator plates | $240–$420 + harvest valve or thermostat | Harvest valve, harvest thermostat, hot gas valve. Ice stuck on evaporator after freeze cycle. |
Refrigerant / compressor Machine not cooling properly | $300–$480 + parts per diagnosis | Refrigerant charge, compressor assessment. EPA-certified technician for refrigerant work. |
Hoshizaki / Manitowoc / Scotsman PREMIUM All failure types | $280–$480 + OEM parts | Brand-specific diagnostic protocols, OEM components. Hoshizaki KM series and Manitowoc Indigo series are common in LA commercial kitchens. |
