1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the SIHAO Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine, Model ZM-A168. This machine is designed for commercial use, offering high productivity and ease of operation for making delicious soft-serve ice cream, yogurt, or sorbet. Constructed from durable stainless steel, it features a powerful 1200W compressor, dual 3L hoppers, and an intelligent LCD control panel for efficient and convenient use. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation and maintenance of your ice cream machine.
Figure 1: SIHAO Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine (Model ZM-A168)
2. Safety Instructions
- Read all instructions before operating the machine.
- Ensure the machine is placed on a stable, level surface.
- Do not operate the machine with a damaged power cord or plug.
- Keep hands and foreign objects away from moving parts during operation.
- Always unplug the machine before cleaning or performing maintenance.
- Do not immerse the machine in water or other liquids.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the machine to prevent overheating.
3. Product Overview
The SIHAO ZM-A168 is a high-performance countertop soft serve ice cream machine designed for commercial environments. Key features include:
- Dual 3L Hoppers: Two 0.8 Gallon (3L) food-grade 304 stainless steel hoppers for separate flavor mixes.
- High Production Capacity: Capable of producing up to 18 liters (5 gallons) of ice cream per hour.
- Three Flavors: Offers two single flavors and one mixed flavor, with three distinct nozzles for varied ice cream shapes.
- Powerful 1200W Compressor: Ensures fast cooling, stable operation, reduced noise, and energy efficiency using R410a refrigerant.
- Intelligent LCD Control Panel: Displays real-time information such as production count, hardness level, cooling status, and allows for one-click cleaning.
- User-Friendly Design: Features ergonomic handles, a detachable drip tray for easy cleaning, and efficient cooling vents.
Figure 2: Key features of the SIHAO Ice Cream Machine
Figure 3: Dual 3L hoppers and three dispensing nozzles
Figure 4: Powerful 1200W compressor for efficient cooling
Figure 5: Smart operation panel with one-click cleaning function
4. Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | ZM-A168 |
| Brand Name | SIHAO |
| Power (W) | 1200W |
| Production Capacity | 18 L/H (4.75 Gallon/H) |
| Hopper Capacity | 3L x 2 (0.8 Gal x 2) |
| Refrigerant | R22/R410a |
| Material | Food-grade stainless steel |
| Feature | 2 + 1 mix flavors |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 550 x 420 x 760 mm (22.6 x 16.7 x 30 in) |
| Product Weight | 69 kg (152.11 lbs) |
Figure 6: Product dimensions
5. Setup
5.1 Unpacking and Placement
- Carefully unpack the ice cream machine and all accessories.
- Place the machine on a sturdy, level surface with adequate ventilation around it. Ensure there is enough space for air circulation, especially around the cooling vents.
- Inspect the machine for any damage incurred during transit. Contact customer support if any damage is found.
5.2 Initial Cleaning
All 2+1 mix flavors soft serve ice cream makers are tested during production. Therefore, it is essential to perform an initial cleaning before the first use.
- Fill both hoppers with clean water.
- Press the "CLEAN" button on the intelligent LCD panel.
- Allow the machine to run in cleaning mode for approximately 2 minutes.
- Drain the water from the machine.
- Repeat the process with fresh water if necessary until the water runs clear.
Video 1: Demonstrates the cleaning process, mixing ingredients, filling hoppers, and dispensing ice cream.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Preparing the Ice Cream Mixture
- It is highly recommended to follow the standard ratio of water and ice cream powder (1:2.5) for optimal results. Avoid using milk paste.
- Mix your desired ice cream powder with water thoroughly in separate containers for each flavor.
- Let the mixture sit for approximately 15 minutes to ensure proper hydration.
6.2 Filling the Hoppers
- Open the lids of the two 3L hoppers on top of the machine.
- Carefully pour the prepared ice cream mixture into the respective hoppers. Ensure not to overfill.
- Close the hopper lids securely.
6.3 Making Ice Cream
- Plug in the machine and turn on the main power switch (if applicable).
- Press the "WORK" button on the intelligent LCD panel to start the freezing process.
- Monitor the LCD display for real-time information on "Hardness", "cooling", and "forming" progress. The "forming" value typically ranges from 50 to 99 for normal use.
- Once the desired hardness is reached (usually after about 20 minutes of molding), the machine is ready to dispense.
- To dispense ice cream, pull down one of the ergonomic handles. The left and right handles dispense single flavors, while the middle handle dispenses a mixed flavor.
6.4 Adjusting Settings
The LCD panel allows for modulation of settings such as hardness and temperature. Refer to the on-screen menu and use the adjustment buttons (e.g., '+' and '-') to fine-tune the ice cream consistency according to your preference.
7. Maintenance
7.1 Daily Cleaning
- After each day of use, ensure all remaining ice cream mixture is removed from the hoppers.
- Initiate the "CLEAN" function on the LCD panel with water in the hoppers to perform an automatic cleaning cycle.
- For thorough cleaning, disassemble the dispensing handles and nozzles, wash them with warm soapy water, rinse, and air dry.
- Clean the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
- The drip tray is detachable for easy cleaning.
7.2 Long-Term Storage
- The hoppers do not have a refrigeration function. If the machine will not be used for an extended period, ensure all ice cream mixture is removed and the machine is thoroughly cleaned and dried to prevent bacterial growth.
- Store the machine in a clean, dry place.
7.3 Air Filter Cleaning
- Regularly check and clean the air filters located near the cooling vents to ensure optimal airflow and prevent compressor overheating.
Figure 7: Removable drip tray and cooling vents for easy maintenance
8. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your ice cream machine. For problems not listed here, please contact customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not turn on | No power supply; Power cord not properly connected; Main switch off. | Check power outlet and cord connection; Ensure main power switch is ON. |
| Ice cream is too soft/hard | Incorrect hardness setting; Improper mixture ratio. | Adjust hardness setting on the LCD panel; Ensure correct water to powder ratio (1:2.5). |
| Machine not cooling effectively | Blocked air vents; High ambient temperature; Low refrigerant. | Clean air vents; Ensure adequate ventilation; Contact service for refrigerant check. |
| Ice cream not dispensing smoothly | Nozzles clogged; Mixture too thick; Internal components not assembled correctly. | Clean nozzles; Adjust mixture consistency; Reassemble dispensing parts. |
9. User Tips
- Mixture Consistency: Always ensure your ice cream mixture is well-mixed and has the correct consistency before pouring it into the hoppers. This prevents issues with freezing and dispensing.
- Pre-Chilling: For best results and faster freezing times, consider pre-chilling your ice cream mixture before adding it to the machine.
- Regular Cleaning: Adhere strictly to the daily cleaning routine to maintain hygiene and prolong the lifespan of your machine.
10. Warranty and Support
The SIHAO Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine comes with a 2-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind regarding product quality and performance. For any technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact SIHAO customer service. SIHAO is dedicated to providing 24/7 attentive service to its customers.
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