Why Is My Commercial Ice Machine Making Small or Hollow Cubes?

Small or malformed ice cubes are one of the most common ice machine complaints we receive at Texas HVACR Pros. Here is what usually causes it and what you can do about it.

Water Supply Issues

The most common cause of small or hollow cubes is inadequate water flow. Check that the water supply valve is fully open and your water line has no kinks. Low water pressure means there is not enough water entering the freeze cycle to form a complete cube.

Dirty or Clogged Water Filter

Most commercial ice machines have an inline water filter that should be replaced every 6 months. A clogged filter restricts water flow and is a very common cause of small cube production. A new filter typically costs $20-50 and takes minutes to replace.

Scale Buildup on the Evaporator Plate

In areas with hard water — which describes much of North Texas including Hood County — mineral scale builds up on the evaporator plate over time. When scale builds up, it insulates the plate and prevents proper freezing, resulting in cubes that do not fully form. Regular descaling with an approved ice machine cleaner is essential maintenance.

High Ambient Temperature

Commercial ice machines are rated to operate within a specific ambient temperature range — typically 70-90F. In Texas summers, poorly ventilated equipment rooms can easily exceed this range, reducing ice production and causing malformed cubes. Ensure your machine has adequate ventilation clearance of at least 6 inches on all sides.

Refrigerant Issues

If water supply and scale are not the issue, low refrigerant could be causing inadequate freezing. This requires an EPA-certified technician to diagnose and repair. Texas HVACR Pros services all major ice machine brands including Hoshizaki, Manitowoc, Ice-O-Matic, Scotsman, and Follett.