In the West Texas heat, ice isn’t just a luxury—it’s a critical component of your business. Whether you’re running a restaurant, a convenience store, or a medical facility, the price tag of a brand-new commercial ice machine can be daunting. Turning to the used market is a common way to save capital, but without a plan, a “bargain” can quickly turn into a money pit.
At Lubbock Ice Machines, we see the good, the bad, and the ugly of used equipment. If you’re considering a pre-owned unit, here is your essential checklist to ensure you’re making a smart investment.
1. Know the “History” (Ask for Records)
Just like buying a used car, an ice machine’s past dictates its future.
- The Environment Matters: Was the machine used in a cool, clean office or a hot, flour-heavy bakery? Air-cooled machines in bakeries or pizza shops often “breathe in” flour and yeast, which can lead to rapid mold growth and clogged condensers.
- Maintenance Logs: Ask the seller for service records. A machine that was professionally cleaned and descaled every six months is a much safer bet than one that was neglected until it broke.
2. The Visual “Red Flags”
Open the front panel. You don’t need to be a technician to spot these warning signs:
- Scale and Biofilm: If you see heavy white, crusty mineral buildup (scale) or “slime” (biofilm), the machine hasn’t been maintained. While it can be cleaned, excessive scale can permanently damage the evaporator plate—the most expensive part of the machine.
- Corrosion: Rust on the frame or blue-green corrosion on copper lines suggests leaks or high-moisture issues that may have compromised the electronics.
- The Evaporator Plate: Look at the plating where the ice forms. If the coating is peeling or “pitting,” the machine is near the end of its life. Once that plating goes, the ice won’t release properly, causing the machine to freeze up.
3. “Used” vs. “Refurbished”
There is a massive difference between a machine bought off a social media marketplace and a refurbished unit from a reputable dealer.
- Used: Sold “as-is.” You inherit every problem, known or unknown.
- Refurbished: At Lubbock Ice Machines, our refurbished units are stripped down, deep-cleaned, tested through multiple harvest cycles, and often come with a limited warranty. This “peace of mind” is usually worth the slight price difference over a private-party sale.
4. Check the “Vitals” During a Test Run
Never buy a machine without seeing it run. A “working” machine should:
- Produce Ice Quickly: Depending on the model, a cycle should take 15–30 minutes. If it takes an hour to drop one batch, the compressor or refrigerant levels are likely failing.
- Make Proper Cubes: The ice should be consistent in shape and size. If the cubes are shallow, misshapen, or “mushy,” there’s a problem with the water float or the harvest cycle.
- Run Quietly: Listen for grinding or loud vibrating. These are the sounds of a fan motor or compressor on its last legs.
5. Factor in the “Hidden Costs”
The purchase price isn’t your final cost. Before you buy, remember to budget for:
- Professional Installation: Improperly leveled machines or poor drainage can kill a unit in weeks.
- New Water Filters: Never use the old filter that comes with a used machine. Start fresh to protect your “new” investment from Lubbock’s hard water.
- Sanitization: Unless it’s a certified refurbished unit, you must have the machine professionally deep-cleaned and sanitized before serving ice to the public.
The Expert Advantage
Buying a used ice machine is a gamble, but you don’t have to roll the dice alone. At Lubbock Ice Machines, we specialize in helping local businesses find the right equipment for their budget—whether that’s a top-of-the-line new Manitowoc or a reliable, inspected pre-owned unit.
Found a used machine and want a second opinion? We offer pre-purchase inspections to help you avoid a lemon.
Browse our current inventory or schedule a service call today! Or call us at 806-696-3686 to keep the ice flowing.
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