Scotsman DCE33 Ice Machine Product Manual
Brand: Scotsman Ice Systems
Introduction
The Scotsman DCE33 is a restaurant-type ice machine designed for home use. It produces high-quality ice comparable to larger Scotsman commercial units and stores it in a heavily insulated bin. This service manual is intended for individuals installing, using, and servicing the DCE33, providing essential information on safety and maintenance. It is recommended to keep this manual readily accessible.
Model Information
The DCE33 is available in two main configurations:
| Model Number | Basic Electrical | Maximum Fuse Size | Cabinet Color | Drain Pump? | Compressor HP | Refrigerant Charge, R-134a |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DCE33A-1SSD | 115/60/1 | 15 amp | Stainless | No | 1/8 | 5 oz |
| DCE33PA-1SSD | 115/60/1 | 15 amp | Stainless | Yes | 1/8 | 5 oz |
Add On Kits:
- Stainless Steel Door Panel Kit: SS33
- Cabinet Extensions: KCE18-SS (Stainless Steel)
- Drain Pump Kit (for gravity drain models): Part number A39885-001 (requires pump purchase)
Warning: This product may expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Scotsman Ice Systems products are designed and manufactured to meet high safety and performance standards, complying with U.L. and C.U.L. standards. Scotsman is not liable for issues arising from product alterations or the use of unapproved parts.
Cabinet Dimensions
The following diagrams illustrate the physical dimensions and connection points of the DCE33 ice machine.
DCE33 Cabinet Views
Side View: Shows the overall height (29 7/8"), depth (2 13/16"), and clearance required at the bottom (4").
Back View: Details the width (15"), height (33 3/8"), and connection ports: Electric Inlet, Water Inlet (1/4" Copper Tubing), Drain (5/8" I.D. Plastic Tubing), and Pump Drain Hose (3/8" ID).
Overhead View: Indicates air intake and exhaust locations (Cool Air In, Warm Air Out) and the serial number tag location. Notes that doors open 180 degrees from either side.
Installation
Proper installation requires access to air, potable water, 115-volt electricity, and a drain. The machine must be installed indoors in a controlled environment.
Air Requirements
The ice machine draws room air from the front right side of the kick plate and exhausts warm air from the left. Obstructions in front of the kick plate will reduce performance. Operating temperature range: 50°F to 100°F.
Water Supply Requirements
Requires a continuous supply of potable water with a flowing pressure between 20 p.s.i.g. and 80 p.s.i.g. Minimum and maximum water temperatures are 40°F and 100°F, respectively.
Water Quality Considerations
All water contains impurities (suspended and dissolved solids). While the DCE33's design dilutes mineral concentration, impurities can lead to scale buildup, affecting machine life and ice quality. Regular cleaning with Scotsman Ice Machine Cleaner is recommended. Water filtration is advised. Reverse osmosis systems may require post-treatment. Water softeners are not recommended as they can cause white, mushy ice cubes.
Electrical Requirements
The machine uses a standard 115-volt power cord and should be on a dedicated circuit with a 15-amp fuse or circuit breaker.
Drain Requirements
Two models exist: DCE33A-1 (gravity drain) requires a downward-pitched drain tube to a sanitary sewer. DCE33PA-1 (pump model) includes a built-in pump to discharge water to a drain point, such as a sink.
Plumbing Installation Steps
All plumbing must conform to local codes. Ensure water supply and drain lines are roughed in at the installation point. For undercounter installations, a wall outlet directly behind the machine is convenient. Avoid restricting access to the cabinet's front, top, and bottom for servicing.
Installations on a Slab
Use a pump model (DCE33PA-1) to move water to the drainage point. Pump models can lift water one story high.
Installations Over a Crawl Space or Basement
Either gravity or pump models can be used. If space behind the machine is limited, the drain must be routed below the floor.
Gravity Drain Tube Installations (Free Standing & Built-In)
Horizontal drain lines require a 1/4" fall per foot. An air gap is often required between the machine's drain tube and the receptacle. Acceptable setups include a standpipe with a trap or a floor drain. Poor draining can cause ice to melt rapidly.
Diagrams illustrate examples of gravity drain tube installations, showing configurations for 'Normal Drain Line' (Good Draining), 'With Trap, Causes Poor Draining' (Poor Draining), and 'With Trap And Vent, Draining Is Normal' (Good Draining).
Free Standing Cabinet, Gravity Drain Model Steps
- Remove kick plate and access cover.
- Route 1/4" O.D. copper water supply tube through the back to the front.
- Install flare nut and flare tube end.
- Flush water line and connect to inlet water valve.
- Route 5/8" I.D. (7/8" OD) drain tube to the bin drain fitting at the bottom of the bin. Secure with hose clamps. Ensure the tube is pushed past the barbs. Soak in hot water if needed for installation.
- Route drain tube to the drain/waste receptacle. Vent long horizontal runs (over 5') at the back of the cabinet.
- Turn on water supply and check for leaks.
- Replace kick plate and access cover.
- Level unit using leg levelers.
Diagram shows 'INSTALLATION OF WATER AND DRAIN' with components like Water Filter (Recommended), Shut Off Valve, Floor Drain, and connection details.
Free Standing Cabinet, Pump Model Steps
- Remove kickplate and control box cover.
- Route 1/4" O.D. copper water supply tube through the back to the front.
- Install flare nut and flare tube end.
- Flush water line and connect to inlet water valve.
- Locate 3/8" I.D. plastic drain tubing from the back of the cabinet.
- Route tubing to the drain point connection. Do not connect below a trap. Connect to drain per local codes. An air gap is likely required.
- Turn on water, plug in the machine. Pour water into the bin; the drain pump should activate. Check for leaks.
- Replace kickplate and control box cover.
- Level unit using leg levelers.
Diagram shows 'WATER AND DRAIN INSTALLATION' for pump models, including Air Gap Device, Drain Connection, Water Shut Off Valve, Water Filter, and Water Inlet Connection.
Built In, Gravity Drain Model Steps
- Place machine in front of location, adjust leg levelers.
- Remove kickplate and access cover.
- Route 1/4" O.D. copper water inlet line from wall through machine to front.
- Route drain line from wall through machine. Vent long runs (over 5') at the back.
- If electrical outlet is behind cabinet, plug in machine.
- Push machine into installed position.
- Cut water inlet line to length.
- Flush water line, install flare nut, and flare tube end. Attach to inlet water valve.
- Cut drain tube to length. Route 5/8" drain tube through back panel to bin drain fitting. Secure with hose clamps. Ensure tube is past barbs.
- Turn on water supply and check for leaks.
- Replace kickplate and access cover. Level as needed.
Diagram shows 'INSTALLATION OF WATER AND DRAIN' for built-in gravity models, similar to free-standing gravity but integrated into cabinetry.
Built In Pump Model Steps
- Place machine in front of location, adjust leg levelers.
- Remove kickplate and control box cover.
- Route 1/4" O.D. copper water inlet line from wall through machine to front.
- Locate 3/8" I.D. plastic drain tubing from the back of the cabinet.
- Route tubing to drain connection point. Note: Air gap may be required by local codes.
- If electrical outlet is behind cabinet, plug in machine.
- Push machine into installed position.
- Cut water inlet line to length.
- Flush water line, install flare nut, and flare tube end. Attach to inlet water valve.
- Turn on water supply and ensure machine is plugged in and powered on.
- Pour water into storage bin; drain pump should start. Check for leaks.
- Replace kickplate and control box cover.
- Level cabinet as needed.
Diagram shows 'WATER AND DRAIN INSTALLATION' for built-in pump models, similar to free-standing pump models but integrated into cabinetry. Notes the machine's fit dimensions: 15 1/4" Wide x 33 3/4" High, 22" Depth to handle edge.
Add On Kits: Customizing Door Panel
The door can be modified to accept a decorator panel. A custom panel, up to 14 3/4" wide, 28 15/16" high, and 1/4" thick or less at the edges, can be installed in front of the standard door. If the material is thinner than 1/4", cardboard can fill the gap.
Steps for Customizing Door Panel:
- Remove one screw and the left hinge filler plate from the top of the door.
- Remove two screws from the top of the door to lift off the door handle.
- Open the door partially and remove the front screw holding the hinge to the door.
- Loosen the rear hinge screw to allow the door to sag, providing access to the top channels.
- Insert the pre-cut decorator panel evenly into the door channels from the top, sliding it down until it reaches the bottom channel.
- Ensure the panel is fully seated and does not protrude past the top edge.
- Align the top hinge screw hole with the door screw hole and install the previously removed screw, then tighten the other screw.
- Replace the door handle and filler plate, securing with screws.
Diagram illustrates 'Parts Involved in Customizing Door Panel', showing the custom panel, filler plate, hinge, door with groove, and door handle.
After Installation - Operation
Final Check List
- Machine uncrated and all packing materials removed?
- Installation instructions (water, drain, electricity) followed?
- Machine leveled?
Initial Start Up
- Turn on the water supply.
- Plug in the unit and turn the ice machine control knob to the ON position.
- Allow the unit to operate for 1 hour. Check cube size; adjust if necessary (see page 18).
- Once cube size is confirmed correct, replace all panels.
- Locate the nameplate on the control box cover. Record the serial number and start-up date in the manual for future reference.
- Fill out and mail the Warranty Registration.
How To Use
Turn the ice machine control knob to the ON position. The DCE33 will automatically freeze ice until the bin is full. A new machine may take up to 48 hours to fill. Use the provided scoop to remove ice and place it in the scoop holder. Do not leave the scoop on the ice, as it will melt.
What to Expect from the DCE33
- Ice Production: The machine produces approximately 8 ice cubes every 30 minutes. Water enters and drains during this cycle.
- Ice Characteristics: Cubes are tapered cylinders, approximately 1 1/4" at the widest end, tapering to 1" at the top, and 1 1/8" high. A proper adjustment results in a 1/4" indent at the base. Fresh ice appears wet, which is normal. Frost may also appear and will disappear when liquid is poured over the ice.
- Storage: The ice storage bin is insulated, not refrigerated, to prevent ice from freezing into a solid block and to avoid evaporation.
- Operation Cycle: The machine operates until the ice level contacts the bin thermostat sensor tube, then it shuts off. Models with a drain pump may periodically pump out melt water when the machine is off.
- Run Time: The machine typically runs about 6 hours per day to replace melted ice. The actual run time depends on ice removal frequency, cleanliness, and ambient air/water temperature. A completely emptied bin may take 24-36 hours to refill.
After Installation: Reversing Door Swing
The hinged side of the door can be reversed. The DCE33 is shipped with the door hinged on the right. Moving the hinges to the left allows the door to pivot from the left.
Procedure:
- Open the door and remove the three screws holding the lower hinge to the cabinet.
- With the door open, remove the two screws from the top door hinge. The door is now free.
- Remove the single screw and hinge filler plate from the top of the door.
- Install the provided filler plate onto the top corner of the door where the hinge was.
- Remove three plastic plugs from the top front corner and three from the lower front corner where the new hinge mounts will be.
- Remove the three screws holding the top hinge to the cabinet. Remove this hinge, flip it upside down, and install it onto the bottom of the door on the opposite side using the original screws.
- Remove the hinge assembly from the bottom of the door, flip it upside down, and secure it to the cabinet at the opposite side top position with original screws.
- Hold the door up to the cabinet and secure it to the top hinge with original screws.
- Secure the bottom hinge to the cabinet with original screws.
- Place the removed plastic plugs into the empty holes.
- Check door operation by opening and closing it.
Diagram illustrates 'Reverse Hinges From Top to Bottom and Left to Right to Reverse Door Swing', showing hinge parts and their relocation.
Component Location
Key components of the DCE33 ice machine are labeled in the diagram:
- Curtain
- Reservoir
- Bin Thermostat Bracket
- Control Box Cover
- Kickplate
- Control Knob
- Door Gasket
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning ensures longevity and optimal performance.
What Shouldn't Be Done
- Do not store non-ice items (e.g., bottles) in the ice bin, as labels can clog the drain.
- Do not operate the machine without regular cleaning (at least annually, preferably twice).
What Should Be Kept Clean
- Outside cabinet & door
- Ice storage bin
- Condenser
- Ice making system
- Ice scoop
How to Clean the Cabinet
Wipe spills immediately with soap and warm water. For dried-on residue, use soap and warm water.
How to Clean the Ice Storage Bin
Sanitize the bin when empty. Use a solution of 1 ounce household bleach per 2 gallons of hot water (95°F - 115°F). Wipe the interior, pour some solution down the drain, and allow to air dry. After winterizing, reconnect lines and repeat initial start-up.
How to Clean the Condenser
The condenser fins and tubes can become clogged. To clean:
- Remove the kickplate.
- Locate the condenser surface.
- Vacuum dust and lint from the surface, being careful not to dent the fins.
- Replace the kickplate.
Diagram shows cleaning the condenser surface.
Winterizing
- Clean the machine as described on the next page.
- Turn off the water supply.
- Drain the water reservoir (refer to Spray Pump Repair instructions for pump hose removal).
- Disconnect the incoming water line at the inlet water valve.
- Remove the control box cover and turn the timer to the harvest cycle.
- With the machine operating, blow air through the inlet water valve (a tire pump can be used).
- For drain pump models, pour approximately 1/2 gallon of RV antifreeze (propylene glycol) into the ice storage bin drain. Note: Automotive antifreeze must not be used.
- Replace the control box cover. Switch off and unplug the machine.
Cleaning the Ice Making System
Procedure:
- Open the door and turn the ice machine control knob to OFF.
- Scoop out all existing ice.
- Pour 4 ounces of Scotsman Clear 1 Ice Machine Cleaner into the ice machine reservoir.
- Turn the ice machine control knob to ON.
- Allow the machine to operate for approximately 2 hours.
- Pour hot water (95°F - 115°F) into the bin to melt any formed ice.
- Clean the bin liner of mineral scale using a mixture of ice machine cleaner and hot water.
- Rinse the liner with hot water.
- Sanitize the bin interior.
- Replace the ice removed in step 2.
The ice scoop should be washed regularly like any other food container.
Note: Biofilm can accumulate in the drain system, affecting drainage and potentially causing erratic pump operation, leading to low production and standing water. Frequent bin sanitizing may be required.
Warning: Scotsman Ice Machine Cleaner contains acids that may cause burns. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting; give large amounts of water or milk and call a physician immediately. For skin contact, flush with water. Keep out of reach of children.
Adjustments
Three items can be adjusted: Cube Size, Harvest Time, and Bin Level. Cube Size and Harvest Time adjustments should only be performed by a qualified service person.
Cube Size Control
This control adjusts cube shape, not overall size. Adjust during the harvest cycle or the first 10 minutes of the freeze cycle.
- Open the door and remove the control box cover.
- Locate the cube size adjustment screw. To make fuller cubes, turn the screw clockwise approximately 1/4 turn (this lengthens the freezing cycle). To make less full cubes, turn counterclockwise 1/4 turn (this shortens the freezing cycle).
- After the next freezing cycle, check the cube size. If further adjustment is needed, make it early in the freeze cycle.
Diagrams show 'SIDE VIEW OF CUBES' labeled 'TOO BIG', 'CORRECT SIZE', and 'TOO SMALL', illustrating the visual effect of adjustments. 'CUBE SIZE ADJUSTMENT' diagram shows the screw location.
Bin's Ice Level
The ice level should be even with the metal tube inside the bin when the machine shuts off. Adjust the bin thermostat using the control knob:
- To lower the ice level, turn the knob counterclockwise (approx. 1/8 turn).
- To increase the ice level, turn the knob clockwise (approx. 1/8 turn).
Diagrams show turning the knob counterclockwise and clockwise.
Harvest Time Adjustment
This adjustment ensures all ice is released during the harvest period. The range is 2 to 5 minutes.
An adjustment screw on the electronic timer controls harvest time. Rotate CCW to reduce time, CW to increase it. Set it to match the machine's performance (e.g., if release takes 2.5 minutes, set harvest time to about 3 minutes).
Diagram shows a circular timer with an adjustment screw.
Service Diagnosis
This table outlines common problems, their possible causes, and probable corrections:
| PROBLEM | POSSIBLE CAUSE | PROBABLE CORRECTION |
|---|---|---|
| No ice falling in bin, but machine operates | Ice may be stuck in the evaporator and the unit is "frozen up". | Check water supply - filter may be restricted. Check inlet water valve - screen may be restricted, or valve does not operate. Hot gas valve may not operate - check and repair/replace. Harvest time set too short - timer needs adjustment. |
| Too much heat load. | Inlet water valve leaks thru, needs to be replaced. | |
| No water spray | Water pump does not work, replace it. Water leak from reservoir, locate and repair. | |
| Cube size control will not close | See "Too much heat load" or "not enough refrigerant". Control defective - must be replaced. | |
| No airflow | Fan motor not turning, needs to be replaced. Fan blade broken, needs to be replaced. Condenser completely blocked up, needs cleaning. | |
| Standing water in the bin | Drain line restriction or drain pump maintenance required | Remove restriction or contact service provider to check drain pump operation. |
Wiring Diagram
The wiring diagram illustrates the electrical connections between components, including power input, switches, motors, and solenoids, for the DCE33 ice machine.
Schematic Diagram
The schematic diagram provides a simplified overview of the electrical system, showing the logic and flow of power to components such as the compressor, fan motor, water pump, and solenoids, controlled by various switches and the timer. It indicates the state of switches during the freeze cycle with the drain pump operating.
Contact Information
Scotsman Ice Systems
101 Corporate Woods Parkway
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Phone: 800-726-8762
Website: www.scotsman-ice.com
