When an ice machine stops, the bar, the drink station and the kitchen all feel it. Babak Food Equipment repairs, cleans and maintains commercial ice machines for restaurants, bars, cafés, hotels, grocers and healthcare kitchens across Metro Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

Our technicians work on modular (head) units with bins, undercounter and self-contained machines, nugget and flake machines, and air-cooled, water-cooled and remote-condenser models. Ice machines are part of our wider restaurant equipment repair service, so the same visit can cover your other refrigeration too.

Ice machine problems we fix

Not making ice

Often a water supply, inlet valve, pump, sensor or refrigeration fault. We trace the cause instead of guessing at parts.

Low ice production

Dirty condenser coils, scale on the evaporator, low water pressure or a hot room cut output. Cleaning and setup often bring production back.

Cubes small, cloudy or stuck together

Usually scale, a harvest problem or water quality. We clean, adjust and recommend filtration where needed.

Leaking water

Blocked drains, cracked tubing, a stuck float or a faulty valve. Leaks are fixed before they damage floors or cabinets.

Bad taste, odour or slime

Mold and biofilm build up in the water system and bin. A full clean and sanitize removes it and protects your customers.

Noisy, tripping or not harvesting

Fan motors, compressors, harvest valves, controls and bin thermostats are tested and replaced when they fail.

How a repair visit works

  1. Book the call. Use the service request form or call us with the make, model, serial number and what the unit is doing.
  2. Diagnosis on site. A technician tests the unit, finds the cause and explains what needs to be done.
  3. Clear quote. You get the repair cost before work goes ahead, including parts if they need to be ordered.
  4. Repair and test. The fault is fixed, the unit is run and checked under normal working conditions.
  5. Prevent the next one. We point out wear items and maintenance that will reduce future breakdowns.

What to have ready

  • Make, model and serial number (on the data plate)
  • What the unit is doing, and since when
  • Any error code on the display
  • A photo of the data plate and the problem area
  • Best time and access details for the technician

Ice machine cleaning and maintenance

Most manufacturers ask for cleaning and sanitizing at least every 6 months, and more often in busy or hard-water locations. Skipping it lowers production, raises energy use and can affect your warranty. A maintenance visit typically covers:

  • Descaling and sanitizing the water system, evaporator and bin
  • Cleaning the condenser coil and checking fans
  • Checking water filters, inlet valves, drains and the float or sensors
  • Checking refrigeration pressures and harvest cycle
  • Inspecting the bin, door and ice scoop storage

Brands we repair

We repair ice machines from all major brands, including Scotsman, Hoshizaki, Manitowoc and Ice-O-Matic, plus the units we sell. Not sure of the brand? Send us a photo of the data plate.

Repair or replace?

Repair usually makes sense when the compressor and evaporator are sound. Replacement is worth comparing when the machine is old, needs a compressor or evaporator, or can no longer keep up with your volume. We give you both numbers so you can decide.

What our customers say

★★★★★ Google review · April 2023

Les S.

“Their service team is excellent at diagnosing and fixing issues with foodservice equipment… I call Babak Food Equipment before anyone else!”

★★★★★ Google review · February 2025

Pastry Training Centre of Vancouver

“Recently they successfully repaired our chocolate fridge, a task which was not easy considering the age of the compressor. Very much appreciated their friendly & outstanding service.”

Frequently asked questions

Why is my commercial ice machine not making ice?

Common causes are no water supply or a closed valve, a clogged filter, a failed inlet valve or pump, a dirty condenser, a full-bin sensor fault or a refrigeration problem. Check the water supply and power, then book a technician.

How often should a commercial ice machine be cleaned?

At least every 6 months, and every 3 months in busy kitchens, bakeries or hard-water areas. Follow the manufacturer’s manual for your model.

Why is my ice machine making less ice?

Scale on the evaporator, a dirty condenser coil, low water pressure or a hot room are the usual reasons. A clean and service usually restores production.

Is it worth repairing an old ice machine?

Often, yes. If the compressor and evaporator are in good condition, repairs such as valves, pumps, sensors or fans are usually far cheaper than a new machine. We will tell you honestly if replacement is the better choice.

Do you repair Hoshizaki, Manitowoc and Scotsman ice machines?

Yes. We repair all major commercial ice machine brands, including Scotsman, Hoshizaki, Manitowoc and Ice-O-Matic.

Do you clean and sanitize ice machines?

Yes. We descale and sanitize the water system, evaporator and bin, and can set up regular cleaning visits.

How do I book an ice machine repair?

Use the service request form or call (604) 566-9747 with the make, model, serial number and what the machine is doing.

Ice machine down?

Book a technician with the make, model and serial number, or call us. Repair costs are confirmed after diagnosis.