Batch Freezer Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance

An Emery Thompson batch freezer isn’t just another piece of equipment—it’s a long-term investment. These machines are famous for their durability, with many operators using the same Emery Thompson ice cream machine for 30+ years. That kind of lifespan is rare in foodservice equipment, and it’s one of the reasons Emery Thompson is trusted worldwide.

But even the strongest machine needs proper cleaning and maintenance. With a consistent routine, you can protect your investment, keep your product consistent, and ensure your machine lasts for decades. Below are maintenance tips based on Emery Thompson’s own procedures, plus insight from Rocky Mountains Distributing—your authorized distributor in Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming.

1. Flush the Machine Thoroughly

At the end of each day, flush your Emery Thompson batch freezer with warm water. Run water through the freezing cylinder until it comes out clear, with no foam or leftover product. This prevents buildup and makes daily disassembly easier.

2. Disassemble Daily

To achieve a lifespan of 30+ years, Emery Thompson ice cream makers should be broken down and cleaned every day. Remove and wash the:

• Dasher (mixing beater inside the cylinder)

• Scraper blades

• O-rings

• Drive shaft

3. Wash and Rinse

All disassembled parts should be washed in warm water with a mild detergent and rinsed thoroughly. Use a soft brush on the stainless steel cylinder and hopper to ensure all residue is removed.

4. Lubricate Seals and O-Rings

Before reassembly, lightly coat the O-rings and gaskets with food-grade lubricant. Emery Thompson emphasizes this as essential—never reassemble “dry.” Proper lubrication prevents leaks, extends part life, and keeps the machine running smoothly.

5. Inspect Scraper Blades

Scraper blades are small but vital to performance. Dull or cracked blades slow freeze times and affect product texture. Inspect weekly and replace as needed to keep your batch ice cream maker operating efficiently.

6. Reassemble with Care

Careful reassembly helps your machine last decades. Ensure O-rings are seated correctly and the front door is tightened evenly. Skipping this step can lead to leaks and unnecessary strain.

7. Sanitize Before Production

Sanitize the machine before adding mix. Even if you sanitized the night before, this guarantees your batch freezer is 100% food-safe at the start of production.

Why Maintenance Matters

With consistent care, it’s not unusual for an Emery Thompson ice cream maker to operate reliably for more than 30 years. Proper maintenance keeps your product consistent, extends component life, and ensures your freezer performs as well on year 20 as it did on day one.

That’s why many operators across Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming rely on Rocky Mountains Distributing for Emery Thompson support. Our team provides training, parts, and on the rare occasion, service, to keep your freezer running like new—whether it’s fresh out of the crate or decades old.

Final Thoughts

An Emery Thompson batch freezer is built to last a lifetime—but it takes daily cleaning and attention to detail to unlock its full 30+ year potential. Flush, disassemble, wash, sanitize, lubricate, inspect, and reassemble every day, and your investment will keep delivering profits for decades.

For expert Emery Thompson maintenance, training, and support, call us at 800-758-1038. We’re proud to be the exclusive distributor in Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming, helping operators thrive with the world’s most trusted batch ice cream maker.