Ice machines are the unsung heroes of office kitchens, break rooms, and commercial spaces. Until they stop working.

We recently helped a commercial client in Schaumburg, IL who called us with a common but frustrating issue on their Perlick undercounter ice machine. The customer suspected a problem with the circulation pump — and they were right.

The Problem: Ice Machine Not Spraying Water Through the Jets

The client described the issue like this:

“We think the circulation pump is having an issue. It’s not spraying water through the jets. The machine is getting water, the condenser is on, and the fan runs — but no ice is being made.”

That’s a classic symptom of a failing recirculation pump, which moves water through the ice-making system.

Our Diagnosis: Failed Recirculation Pump

Our technician arrived at the Schaumburg office building and performed a full inspection of the Perlick ice machine.

Here’s what we found:

  • The unit would fill with water properly
  • The fan and condenser were operating normally
  • The circulation pump was humming but not moving water through the system
  • No water was being sprayed over the evaporator plate — meaning no ice production

The final diagnosis?
The recirculation pump had failed internally and needed replacement.

Why Does a Recirculation Pump Fail in an Ice Machine?

Over time, ice machine pumps can wear out due to:

  • Scale buildup from hard water
  • Long-term use in commercial environments
  • Motor failure or internal blockages
  • Lack of regular maintenance

A humming but non-functioning pump is a clear sign the motor is getting power — but the internal components aren’t moving like they should.

Our Solution: Replace the Recirculation Pump

We sourced a new OEM recirculation pump for the Perlick undercounter ice machine and scheduled a return visit to complete the repair.

This fix restored water flow through the jets and got the ice production back to normal for the office building staff.

Serving Schaumburg, IL and Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs

If you’re a business owner, property manager, or facilities manager in Schaumburg or the greater Chicago area, we specialize in commercial ice machine repair and maintenance — including:

  • Perlick Ice Machines
  • Hoshizaki Ice Makers
  • Manitowoc Ice Machines
  • Scotsman Ice Machines
  • Undercounter and Commercial Units

Signs Your Ice Machine Needs Service

  • No water circulating or spraying over the evaporator
  • Ice production is slow or has stopped
  • Humming noise from the pump but no water movement
  • Leaks or pooling water in or around the unit

Don’t Wait for Ice Machine Problems to Get Worse

We offer commercial appliance service for offices, restaurants, and businesses across Schaumburg and Chicago’s suburbs.

Call us today for:

  • Fast, professional ice machine repair
  • Honest diagnostics
  • Preventative maintenance options to avoid downtime

Serving Schaumburg | Elk Grove Village | Hoffman Estates | Wood Dale | Chicago and Surrounding Suburbs