Soft-serve ice cream machines are a staple of quick-service restaurants and the source of a favorite treat, especially during the summer months. Here are some tips to keep these units working properly.

• Clean soft-serve machines frequently. Because these units often have very detailed cleaning instructions, make sure to keep training materials like the operator’s manual on hand to get new employees up to speed.
• Cleaning soft-serve machines also involves taking apart some components. Train employees on how to disassemble and reassemble these units properly. Check parts for wear and tear or damage during this process.
• Some parts on these machines will require frequent lubrication. Be sure to use the lubricant recommended by the manufacturer, as the wrong product can actually gum up the system over time.
• The heart of a soft-serve machine is a freezer unit, so these machines need to be cared for in many of the same ways. Condenser coils should be cleaned regularly, damaged gaskets need to be replaced and vents should be cleared of debris and obstructions.