7 Tips for Frost-Free Ice Machines and Freezers

Frozen ice in the empty freezer. Problem and solution concept.

Icicles and frosty snowmen are wonderful holiday décor, but no one wants frost to build-up in ice machines, freezers, and refrigeration systems this time of year.

All around Ocala, The Villages, and Central Florida, you can find restaurants, food suppliers, and other businesses bustling with holiday activity. This is no time for a refrigeration system issue or failure, which is why United Refrigeration, Heating and Air has put together a few tips to help keep your systems clean and frost-free this season.

Refrigerator System Maintenance and Cleanings

Ice machines, soft serve machines, slush machines, commercial walk-ins, coolers, and freezers require regular maintenance checks. Here are seven tips for frost-free operation:

Create a Maintenance Schedule: First, create a maintenance schedule for both professional and in-house care of your systems. It is important to clean ice machines, freezers, and refrigeration systems on a regular basis.
Monitor Thermostats and Refrigerant: Assign the task for consistently monitoring and adjusting thermostats, temperatures, cycling, and refrigerant levels in your cooling systems for proper performance.
Maintain a Tight Seal: Always monitor the proper functioning of doors, auto-closers, hinges, and gaskets. Gaps, air leaks, and breakage will both waste energy and waste food. The system will need more energy to maintain temperatures and food could spoil if the right temperatures are not consistent.
Perform Stringent Cleanings: Follow manufacturer guidelines in cleaning and maintaining your ice machines and other refrigeration equipment. An ice machine’s removable parts and bins will require frequent scrubbing. Also, follow instructions for washing evaporators and
sanitizing measures for reducing contamination and odors.
Give Your System Space: You can promote airflow and energy efficiency by providing several inches of space around your heat-exchange coils and systems.
Add Special Features: Machine alarms, special covers, night curtains for open cases, and motion sensors for case-lighting systems could help you keep systems running more efficiently and help you avoid frost now and into the New Year.
Call in the Professionals: You might find quick-fix ideas on the Internet, such as defrosting with a blow dryer, but those tips cannot compare to professional services. United’s experts offer preventative maintenance and cleanings to eliminate frost, remove build-up, clear drain lines, inspect fans, check compressors, and ensure all hardware and coils are problem-free to
improve efficiency and prevent the need for costly repairs.

United Refrigeration’s team is prepared to provide emergency cleanings, repairs, and maintenance for an array of makes and models of refrigerators, coolers, freezers, and ice machines. For over 30 years, we have been keeping commercial refrigeration systems operating efficiently for businesses throughout Sumter and Marion Counties.

Call United Refrigeration, Heating and Air today at 352-629-1187 to speak with one
of our experienced professionals about installations, system maintenance, or
repair services.

Why Summer Is the Ideal Time for a Tune Up in Florida

Summer in Florida isn’t just hot—it’s a serious stress test for any HVAC system. Whether you’re a homeowner trying to keep your family cool or a business owner keeping customers and employees comfortable, your cooling system becomes a daily necessity.

Scheduling an HVAC Tune Up like a furnace tune up and a/c tune up before or early in the summer ensures your system is ready to perform under peak demand. A professional A/C Tune Up helps identify minor issues before they turn into major (and expensive) problems, ensuring your unit runs efficiently even on the hottest days.

For businesses, a malfunctioning A/C during summer can impact customer satisfaction, productivity, and even inventory conditions.

For homeowners, it could mean sleepless nights or sky-high energy bills. Regular Furnace Tune Ups, while less urgent in summer, also ensure your heating system is ready to go if needed, and prevent deterioration from seasonal neglect.

By booking HVAC tune up early in the summer, you also beat the seasonal rush and avoid delays caused by the high volume of emergency service calls. It’s a proactive move that pays off in comfort, savings, and peace of mind—whether you’re cooling a home, retail shop, office, or rental property.

Real Savings: How Much Can You Save?

Regular HVAC tune ups aren’t just about maintenance—they’re an investment that pays you back, often within just one season. For both homeowners and commercial property owners in Florida, the savings can be significant.

On average, a well-maintained system can reduce energy consumption by 15% to 30%. That translates to noticeable savings on your monthly utility bills, especially during Florida’s long, hot summers when A/C systems run almost nonstop.

Let’s break it down:

Homeowners might save $100–$300+ per year just by making sure their A/C runs efficiently with a routine A/C Tune Up.
Commercial properties often operate larger systems with higher energy loads. A furnace tune up could result in thousands of dollars in annual savings, depending on system size and usage.

Preventing just one major breakdown, which can cost $500 to $5,000 depending on the issue, makes a regular HVAC Tune Up more than worth it.

And don’t forget the Furnace Tune Up. While used less frequently in Florida, a neglected heating system can become inefficient over time, quietly inflating your winter energy bills and leading to unexpected repair costs later.

In short, skipping a HVAC tune up might save a little today, but it could cost a lot more tomorrow. Regular maintenance is a smart move that protects your comfort and your wallet.

Signs Your HVAC Needs a Tune Up

No one wants to be stuck with a malfunctioning HVAC system, especially during Florida’s peak summer heat. Regular HVAC Tune Ups help prevent major issues, but it’s important to know the signs that your system needs attention before it breaks down entirely.

Here are some warning signs for both homeowners and commercial property owners to watch for:

Uneven Cooling or Heating: If certain areas of your home or business feel warmer or cooler than others, your system may be struggling to maintain consistent airflow. An A/C Tune Up or Furnace Tune Up can fix airflow issues and restore balance.
Increased Energy Bills: If your utility bills are steadily climbing despite regular use, it could mean your HVAC system is working harder than it needs to. A dirty filter, low refrigerant, or clogged coils are common culprits that a tune-up can address, improving energy efficiency.
Strange Noises: A well-maintained HVAC system should run quietly. If you hear rattling, squealing, or grinding noises, something may be loose or worn out. Regular HVAC tune ups help catch these issues early, preventing costly repairs down the road.
Poor Airflow: If your vents aren’t blowing as hard as usual, or there’s little air coming out of them at all, it’s a sign your system may need attention. Poor airflow could be due to clogged filters or dirty coils—issues that are easily resolved during a HVAC tune up.
Increased Humidity: Florida is known for its high humidity levels, but your HVAC system should be able to regulate this indoors. If the air feels damp or sticky, it could mean your system isn’t running efficiently. A A/C Tune Up can restore your system’s dehumidifying function.
Frequent Cycles: If your HVAC system constantly cycles on and off, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning thermostat or other internal issues that need to be addressed.

Addressing these signs with a professional HVAC Tune Up will help extend the life of your system, keep your home or business comfortable, and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Tips for Choosing the Right Florida HVAC Contractor

With Florida’s intense heat and humidity, choosing the right Florida HVAC contractor can make all the difference in getting quality service and lasting results. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to prep for summer or a business owner managing multiple units, here are some key tips to help you find the right professional for your HVAC Tune Up:

1. Look for Proper Licensing and Insurance

Always hire a contractor licensed in the state of Florida, just like United Refrigeration, Heating, & Air, who are licensed and insured Florida HVAC contractors. Proper licensing ensures they meet state requirements and are trained to handle both A/C Tune Up and Furnace Tune Up. Insurance protects you in case of any damages or accidents during the job.

2. Check Reviews and References

Read online reviews and ask for referrals. Look for consistent positive feedback from both residential and commercial clients. Reputable contractors won’t hesitate to share references.

3. Ask About Services Included

Not all HVAC tune ups are created equal. Make sure the Florida HVAC contractor offers a comprehensive service, including inspection, cleaning, testing, and adjustments. Ask if their tune-up covers both cooling and heating components.

4. Compare Pricing and Value

While cost matters, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Compare quotes, but also weigh what’s included. A thorough A/C Tune Up or Furnace Tune Up that prevents a breakdown is far more valuable than a rushed, low-cost job.

5. Prioritize Local Experience

Florida’s climate is unique. Choose a Florida HVAC contractor familiar with the local environment, building codes, and common system issues in the region. A local pro understands how to prep your HVAC for extreme heat and humidity.

6. Look for Maintenance Plans

Many Florida HVAC contractors offer annual maintenance plans that include seasonal HVAC tune ups, priority service, and discounts on repairs. These plans can be especially useful for commercial property owners managing multiple units.

Conclusion: Tune Up Now, Save All Summer

A regular HVAC Tune Up isn’t just about checking off a maintenance box, it’s about making a smart investment in comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term savings. Whether you own a home in The Villages, Florida, or manage a commercial property in Marion County, a properly maintained system can lower your energy bills, prevent expensive breakdowns, and ensure reliable cooling during Florida’s scorching summers.

Don’t wait for a heatwave or a surprise repair bill to take action. Schedule your A/C Tune Up and Furnace Tune Up today with United and give your HVAC system the attention it deserves.