How Water Filtration Systems Benefit Foodservice Equipment

Water makes up about 80% of sodas, and up to 99% of coffees. And the ice in those drinks? That is, of course, 100% water, and the only consumable product in the kitchen made without any human intervention. Not only is water served to customers, but for certain foodservice equipment, it is essential to operate.

With water being a vital component to foodservice operations, it’s important to consider water filtration systems that reduce scale buildup and filter out particles, chemicals and bacteria appropriately for each type of equipment. Here, the experts at Aqua-Pure™ Water Filtration (formerly 3M Drinking Water Filtration) offer a look at when and why to use the systems.

When To Use a Water Filtration System
There are four main categories of equipment that benefit from water filtration systems: ice machines, soda dispensers, coffee machines, and combi ovens and steamers. Knowing the water needs for each type of equipment helps plan for the right kinds of filters.

For example, ice machines mark one of the more overlooked categories. Operators might install the equipment and then forget about it because they’re not touching it throughout the day. But water filtration systems in ice machines not only reduce odors that affect the taste of ice, they also minimize the biofilm that grows inside the units. Biofilm acts as a breeding ground for pathogens. It can damage machines by building up and clogging drains, ruining sensors and jamming valves.

Aqua-Pure water filtration stands out from its competitors by offering a carbonless filter system for ice machines. The filter reduces particles, cyst and bacteria from incoming water, but allows the chlorine from city water to remain and help with disinfection. The chlorine escapes the water during the freezing process, putting a measurable level of disinfectant in the ice box to reduce the rate of growth of biofilm.

For soda dispensers and coffee machines, Aqua-Pure water filtration’s , where standard filters just reduce chlorine. And for coffee machines, combi ovens and steamers that use hot water to run, one or more of three main technologies (scale-inhibitors, ion-exchange resin, or reverse osmosis) is used to reduce scale buildup.

Why Use Water Filtration Systems
Taste marks one of the more obvious benefits water filtration systems bring to an operation. Guests know what sodas should taste like from a can or bottle, and that is what they expect their fountain drinks to taste like. Whether it’s water or soda, the beverage is usually the first and last impression a customer has in the restaurant experience.

But water is more than an ingredient. It constantly runs through equipment, and chemicals, minerals and particles can cause scale or dirt buildup or cause corrosion if not addressed. Water filtration systems keep equipment running at optimal efficiencies, which leads to the following benefits:

• A better customer experience. Deliming cycles run less often, allowing more time for serving customers.
• Less downtime. Equipment with less scale buildup and corrosion means fewer malfunctions and costly repairs.
• Energy savings. Less scale buildup on equipment also equals a more efficient use of energy, reducing utility bills.
• Lower operating costs: Protecting your equipment from dirt and scale buildup and corrosion means long lasting equipment with fewer service-related costs, helping drive your profitability.

The experts at Aqua-Pure water filtration can consider all these factors and help make sure you have the best system for your operation. To get started, fill out the contact form HERE.