Why Our HCSS Safety Membership Matters

Why Our HCSS Safety Membership Matters

Why Our

HCS SAFETY Membership Matters

At Ice Cool Servicing, delivering reliable, expert refrigeration and ice machine services is only part of the promise. Just as important is how we operate — safely, professionally, and with minimal disruption to your site or staff.

That’s why we’re proud to be a member of HCS SAFETY, one of the UK’s leading health & safety consultancies for contractors.

What Is HCS SAFETY?

HCS SAFETY supports companies like ours by strengthening health & safety systems through:

  • Expert-led audits and guidance

  • Up-to-date policies and procedures

  • Tailored RAMS (Risk Assessments & Method Statements)

  • Ongoing legal compliance and best practice updates

What does this mean for you as a customer?

Whether you’re managing a hospital, restaurant, commercial kitchen, office or bar, here’s how our HCS SAFETY membership benefits you directly:

 1. Total peace of mind

Every engineer we send is backed by industry-standard health & safety systems, independently verified and regularly updated.

You get:

  • Safer working environments
  • Fully qualified, trained engineers
  • Reduced risk and liability on your site

2. Professional documentation

Our RAMS (Risk Assessments & Method Statements ) aren’t just generic PDFs — they’re tailored, site-specific, and created with expert guidance. When we show up for a job, we’re fully prepared, ensuring smoother project starts and minimal disruption.

You get:

  • No delays or admin issues
  • Simple, consistent contractor onboarding
  • Confidence in compliance during audits

3. A safer experience from start to finish

Every Ice Cool engineer benefits from updated safety training and guidance shaped by HCS SAFETY best practices. The result? A team that’s ready to work safely — whether we’re in a busy commercial kitchen, bar, office or hospital.

You get:

  • Fewer accidents.
  • Smarter working practices.
  • Greater respect for your premises, people, and procedures.

Why it matters

Choosing a service company with HCS SAFETY membership means you’re choosing a team that takes responsibility seriously — not just for equipment, but for people, safety, and process. Our commitment to safety is part of the reason we’re trusted by clients across hospitality, healthcare, education, and more. With HCSS backing us, you can be confident that we’re not just reliable — we’re safe, smart, and accountable.

We’re not just here to fix machines. We’re here to deliver service you can trust — professionally, safely, and compliantly.

Industry Certifications

At Ice Cool Servicing, our certifications speak to the standards we uphold on every job. We’re proud to be SafeContractor approved, Refcom F-Gas certified, CSCS qualified, and SEDEX registered. These accreditations aren’t just badges — they’re proof of our commitment to safe working practices, environmental responsibility, ethical operations, and technical compliance.

To see how these certifications benefit your business directly, visit our About Us page

Need Help?

Are you unsure what ice machine is best for your business needs or budget? Call us on 01869 247947 and our experienced team will listen to your requirements and provide the best recommendations for you. Alternatively, visit our Contact Us page to send an online enquiry. 

How Restaurants Can Keep Cool During Busy Periods

How Restaurants Can Keep Cool During Busy Periods

How To Keep Your Restaurant Cool During Busy Service Periods

When the kitchen heats up and orders are flying in, keeping your restaurant cool—both literally and operationally—can be the difference between a chaotic and smooth service. A reliable ice machine, efficient refrigeration, and proper maintenance all play vital roles in keeping your staff and customers happy during peak times.

At Ice Cool Servicing, we support restaurants across the UK with top-tier ice machines, frozen drinks equipment, and commercial refrigeration solutions. Here’s how your restaurant can stay cool, calm, and collected during those hectic service periods.

1. Keep a High-Capacity Ice Machine On Hand

One of the biggest causes of service disruption in hospitality is running out of ice. Whether it’s for cocktails, soft drinks, seafood displays, or prep use, ice is essential.

What to Look For:

  • Fast production speed

  • Large storage bins

  • Energy-efficient models (especially those using R290 refrigerant)

  • Trusted brands like Manitowoc and Follett

➡️ Tip: If your ice machine struggles during peak hours, it may be undersized. We can help you assess your needs and upgrade accordingly.

2. Use an Under-Counter Ice Machine for the Bar

Bar staff need quick access to ice during rush hours. An under-counter ice machine installed directly at the bar speeds up service, reduces congestion, and improves workflow.

  • Ideal for: Cocktail bars, pubs, busy restaurants

  • Ice type: Cubes or gourmet-style ice for presentation

undercounter ice machine

3. Keep Drinks Extra Cool with a Frozen Drinks Machines

Frozen cocktails, slushies, and iced drinks are growing in popularity, especially during summer months. A frozen drinks machine not only boosts revenue but also helps with crowd control by offering a high-margin, quick-serve option.

  • Suitable for: Cafés, family restaurants, outdoor seating areas, festivals

  • Brands: Ugolini

Ugolini NG Easy 6 Triple Frozen Drinks Machine

 4. Ensure Refrigeration is Working at Peak Efficiency

During busy periods, your refrigeration units are under pressure to maintain consistent temperatures despite frequent door openings. Poor performance here can lead to spoilage and health risks.

Key Points:

  • Check door seals and airflow regularly

  • Defrost units if necessary

  • Book regular servicing to maintain energy efficiency

➡️ We offer maintenance plans to keep fridges and freezers operating at peak performance. Or, if you’re looking to upgrade your machine then we offer a range of Foster Refrigeration Units suitable for commercial use.

Foster HR150 Undercounter Fridge

5. Schedule Preventative Maintenance in Advance

Avoid breakdowns when it matters most. Booking planned maintenance before your busiest season (summer, holidays, weekends) gives your equipment the best chance to perform flawlessly.

What We Check:

  • Ice machine descaling & sanitising

  • Refrigerant levels and cooling performance

  • Electrical safety and wear-and-tear parts

6. Have a Backup Plan

Even the best machines can falter under extreme pressure. Having a backup unit—or a trusted servicing partner on speed dial—can be a lifesaver.

Why Choose Ice Cool Servicing?

  • Fast callouts across the UK

  • Certified repair for Manitowoc, Follett, Ugolini, and Foster Refrigeration

  • Spare parts stocked and ready

  • Expert advice from catering equipment specialists

Ice Cool Servicing logo

Ready To Upgrade Or Service Your Equipment?

 

Don’t let the heat of service slow you down. Whether you need a new machine, emergency repair, or expert advice, Ice Cool Servicing is here to help UK restaurants stay cool and confident—no matter how busy it gets.

Get in touch today or explore our latest deals for fast delivery and expert installation.

Need Help?

Are you unsure what ice machine is best for your business needs or budget? Call us on 01869 247947 and our experienced team will listen to your requirements and provide the best recommendations for you. Alternatively, visit our Contact Us page to send an online enquiry. 

The Role of Ice Machines in the Fishing Industry

The Role of Ice Machines in the Fishing Industry

The Crucial Role of Ice Machines in the Fishing Industry

Ensuring Freshness and Quality  

At the heart of this process lies a crucial piece of equipment that often goes unnoticed but plays a vital role – the ice machine. In this blog post, we delve into the significance of ice machines in preserving seafood freshness and quality, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance or upgrading to a more reliable machine.

Preserving Freshness with Ice Machines

As soon as fish are caught, the clock starts ticking to preserve their freshness. Ice machines are indispensable in this process, as they enable fishermen and seafood businesses to rapidly chill and store the catch. Maintaining the ideal temperature is key to preventing bacterial growth, preserving texture, and extending the shelf life of seafood products.

The Importance of Proper Maintenance

For businesses in the fishing industry, regular maintenance of ice machines is not just a matter of convenience – it’s a requirement for ensuring the quality of their products. Over time, ice machines can accumulate dirt, scale, and debris, compromising their efficiency and the quality of the ice produced. Regular servicing and maintenance help prevent breakdowns, ensure consistent performance, and extend the lifespan of the machine.

Upgrade to a More Reliable Machine

In today’s fast-paced fishing industry, having a reliable ice machine can make all the difference. Investing in a new, high-performance ice machine can offer benefits such as improved energy efficiency, higher production capacity, and better ice quality. By upgrading to a more reliable machine, businesses can streamline their operations, reduce downtime, and enhance the overall quality of their seafood products.

Whether you are looking to maintain your current ice machine or upgrade to a more reliable model, we are here to support your needs. Our team of skilled engineers specialises in servicing, maintenance, and installation of ice machines, ensuring that your business continues to operate efficiently.

Flake Ice Machines

 

There are a number of different types of commercial ice machines that can produce flake ice.  Learn more about the various types of ice machines available, and the benefits of each.

Need Help?

Are you unsure what ice machine is best for your business needs or budget? Call us on 01869 247947 and our experienced team will listen to your requirements and provide the best recommendations for you. Alternatively, visit our Contact Us page to send an online enquiry. 

Find Out How Flake Ice Is Formed in an Ice Machine

Find Out How Flake Ice Is Formed in an Ice Machine

How is Flake Ice Formed?

Flake ice is a type of ice commonly used in industries such as food preservation, healthcare, and fisheries. It is characterised by its thin, flat, and soft pieces, making it ideal for cooling and maintaining the freshness of products. 

 

How Is Flake Ice Formed?

Flake ice is a type of ice characterised by its delicate, thin, and flat flakes, offering a unique set of advantages in various industries.

Produced through specialised ice-making machines, flake ice is formed by freezing water in thin layers on the inner surface of a cylindrical ice drum. Once formed and broken into small pieces, the resulting ice flakes have a large surface area, making them ideal for rapid cooling and conforming to the shape of items they come into contact with. This versatility and quick cooling capability make flake ice popular in commercial and industrial applications, including fishmongers and fisheries, food and beverage industries, where it is used for food preservation, processing, and display purposes, as well as in concrete cooling and healthcare settings.

Here’s how the process generally works: 

Water Supply:

The first step is to ensure a continuous supply of clean water. The water should be free from impurities to produce high-quality flake ice.

Ice Generator:

An ice generator or an ice evaporator is the core component of the flake ice-making process. It consists of a refrigerant-filled surface, and it is designed to cool the water rapidly.

Spraying Water:

The water supply is evenly distributed over the ice generator’s surface, typically a horizontal drum or a vertical cylinder. As the water flows over the surface, it forms a thin layer.

Cooling Process:

The refrigerant in the ice generator’s surface extracts heat from the flowing water, causing it to freeze rapidly. The thin layer of water solidifies into a thin sheet of ice.

Ice Formation:

The ice forms as a thin layer on the ice generator’s surface. To maintain the desired ice thickness, the temperature and flow of water are carefully controlled.

Scraping Blades:

Once the ice reaches the desired thickness, a set of blades scrapes the ice off the ice generator’s surface. These blades can be either rotating or stationary, depending on the design.

Flake Ice Production:

The ice scraped from the ice generator is in the form of small, flat flakes with a thickness ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 mm.

Storage:

The flake ice can be stored in bins or transported directly to its intended application. It remains loose and easy to handle, making it ideal for various industrial uses.

Overall, the process of making flake ice is continuous, with new ice forming as the old ice is scraped off the ice generator’s surface. This allows for a steady supply of flake ice as needed. Flake ice is popular due to its excellent cooling properties and ease of use in various applications, such as fisheries and fishmongers. 

It’s worth noting that the production capacity of flake ice machines can vary significantly, from small-scale machines suitable for commercial use to large industrial-scale units capable of producing several tons of flake ice per day. The ice-making process is generally automated and monitored to ensure consistent ice quality and production efficiency. 

Flake Ice Machines

There are a number of different types of commercial ice machines that can produce flake ice.  Learn more about the various types of ice machines available, and the benefits of each. 

Need Help?

Are you unsure what ice machine is best for your business needs or budget? Call us on 01869 247947 and our experienced team will listen to your requirements and provide the best recommendations for you. Alternatively, visit our Contact Us page to send an online enquiry. 

The Importance of Ice Machine Installation

The Importance of Ice Machine Installation

The Importance of Ice Machine Installation 

Ice machines play a crucial role in many industries, including food service, fishing, healthcare, and hospitality. However, their proper installation is often overlooked despite its significant impact on food safety, operational efficiency, and compliance with industry regulations. In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of installing an ice machine properly, the implications of improper installation, and the benefits of utilising professional services like Ice Cool Servicing for installation and maintenance.

Commercial ice machines

Proper Installation for Food Safety and Complaince

Installing an ice machine goes beyond placement and connection to water and power sources. A proper installation involves considerations such as the machine’s proximity to potential contaminants and adherence to manufacturer specifications. When installed correctly, ice machines are less prone to microbial contamination, ensuring the production of safe and sanitary ice for consumption.

Adhering to industry standards regarding the installation of ice machines is crucial for compliance. Health and safety authorities often have specific requirements for the installation of ice machines to prevent food borne illnesses and ensure overall hygiene in food service establishments.

Mechanical Issues and Implications

Improper installation can lead to various mechanical issues, such as water leaks, inconsistent ice production, and premature equipment failure. These issues not only compromise the quality and safety of the ice produced but also result in costly repairs and downtime for businesses. Additionally, mechanical issues stemming from improper installation can disrupt operations, leading to unhappy customers and potential revenue loss for businesses.
Refcom gas certified
Commercial ice machines

Proper Disposal of Old Machines

When replacing an old ice machine, proper disposal of the equipment is essential. Improper disposal can have environmental implications due to the presence of refrigeration gas. Ice Cool Servicing can ensure the safe and environmentally responsible disposal of old ice machines, thereby contributing to sustainable waste management practices.

Using Professional Services for Installation

Ice Cool Servicing’s team of experienced and compliant engineers hold industry certifications, including Refcom F-Gas certification and SafeContractor accreditation, ensuring that installations are carried out in accordance with the highest safety and quality standards. Additionally, all engineers possess CSCS cards, demonstrating their competency and commitment to workplace safety.

By entrusting the installation of ice machines to Ice Cool Servicing, businesses can benefit from expert guidance, compliance with regulations, and the assurance of safe and efficient operations.

Refcom gas certified

In conclusion, the proper installation of ice machines is crucial for maintaining food safety, compliance with regulations, and minimising the risk of mechanical issues. Ice Cool Servicing offer the expertise needed to ensure that installations are conducted to the highest standards, ultimately contributing to the success and safety of businesses.

Need Help?

Are you unsure what ice machine is best for your business needs or budget? Call us on 01869 247947 and our experienced team will listen to your requirements and provide the best recommendations for you. Alternatively, visit our Contact Us page to send an online enquiry. 

Easter Prep: Ensure your ice machine is ready for Easter

Easter Prep: Ensure your ice machine is ready for Easter

Easter Preperation

Ensure your ice machine is ready for the Easter rush

 

With Easter just around the corner, restaurants, hotels, and various businesses in the hospitality industry are gearing up for a surge in customers and events. From brunches to special Easter promotions, a reliable and efficient ice machine is essential to meet the increased demand for cold beverages and refreshing cocktails. To ensure a smooth and successful holiday weekend, it’s crucial to prepare your ice machine in advance. Here are some tips to get your ice machine ready for the Easter rush:

Schedule a Maintenance Service

Regular servicing is key to keep your ice machine running smoothly. Before the Easter festivities begin, book a maintenance service with Ice Cool Servicing. Our experienced engineers will thoroughly clean and inspect your machine, identify any potential issues, and perform necessary repairs or replacements. This proactive approach reduces the risk of breakdowns during busy periods.

Check Water Filtration

Clean, pure water is essential for producing high-quality ice. Unclean water can negatively impact the taste and clarity of your ice, affecting the overall customer experience so replacing the water filter is important to ensure clean water. Replace your water filter from only £169.

Sanitise Ice Bins And Scoops

Maintaining proper sanitation is crucial for food safety. Before the Easter rush, thoroughly clean and sanitise your ice bins and scoops. Use a mild cleanser and warm water to remove any built-up residue, bacteria, or mold. Regular cleaning prevents contamination and ensures that your ice remains safe and hygienic.

Monito Ice Production

As the demand for ice increases, it’s essential to keep a close eye on the ice production levels of your machine. Monitor the machine’s output and be prepared to adjust the production settings if necessary.

Train Staff On Ice Machine Usage

Properly trained staff play a vital role in maximising the efficiency and lifespan of your ice machine. Before Easter, provide staff members with a refresher training session on ice machine usage, including cleaning and maintenance protocols. This ensures everyone understands their responsibilities and can address any minor issues promptly.

Stock Up On Spare Parts

Accidents can happen, and it’s always wise to have essential spare parts on hand. Ice Cool Servicing offer genuine spare parts for Follett and ICS ice machine models. We might be able to source other make and model parts as well – so its always worth contacting us to get find out. Consider stocking up on critical components to minimise downtime in case of unexpected breakdowns.

By following these tips, you can rest easy knowing your ice machine is ready to handle the Easter rush. Don’t let ice supply become a hassle during this busy time. Prepare in advance, focus on delivering exceptional service, and enjoy a successful Easter holiday with satisfied customers and ice-cold beverages for all.

Visit www.icecoolservicing.co.uk for more information, or give us a call on 01869 247947.

Ice Machine Maintenance

Ice Cool Servicing can provide a comprehensive maintenance plan that will help keep your ice machine running, for longer. Click on the button below to find out more about our service plans. Alternatively, contact us if you’re looking for advice, or upgrade your existing machine.

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