Aqua-Pure Replacement Cartridge for ICE160-S & ICE260-S - Cleaner Ice

In this review of the Aqua-Pure replacement cartridge for commercial ice makers, the bottom line is straightforward: it is for operators who need consistently clean, great tasting ice with minimal downtime. The cartridge is designed specifically for the ICE160-S and ICE260-S systems and focuses on reducing sediment, chlorine taste and odor, cysts, bacteria, and scale at high flow rates. For foodservice outlets that prioritize ice quality and fewer service calls, this cartridge delivers a practical, sanitary solution that makes cartridge swaps fast and keeps machines running reliably.

Key Features

• Designed For: Built to fit the ICE160-S and ICE260-S commercial ice maker systems for a guaranteed compatible replacement.
• Great Tasting Ice: Reduces chlorine taste and odor plus particulate so ice and beverages have a cleaner flavor profile for customers.
• Broad Contaminant Reduction: Addresses sediment, cysts and bacteria to improve sanitation and protect product quality in foodservice settings.
• Scale Inhibitor: Includes a built-in scale inhibitor that helps limit scale build-up and extend the life of pumps, valves, and seals.
• High Flow Capacity: Rated for high flow operation up to the system specification so it supports commercial throughput without compromising filtration.
• Sanitary Change-Out: Sanitary Quick Change design prevents contact with filter media for cleaner, faster cartridge replacements.

Who It's For

The cartridge suits restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, convenience stores and quick service restaurants that operate ICE160-S or ICE260-S machines and need reliable reduction of chlorine, sediment and microbial concerns. It also fits operations that prefer minimal service interruptions thanks to the scale inhibitor and the sanitary quick change design.

Those who should look elsewhere include users with residential under-sink ice makers or non-compatible commercial systems, and operations requiring advanced chemical-specific treatment not listed in the product certifications. Verify system compatibility before purchase to ensure a correct fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Built for specific ICE160-S and ICE260-S systems, ensuring proper fit and performance.
• Significant taste and odor reduction that improves beverage and ice quality.
• Integrated membrane and premium activated carbon provide superior throughput and cartridge life.
• Sanitary Quick Change design speeds up maintenance and avoids media contact.

Cons

• Designed only for the stated commercial systems, so it is not a universal replacement for other models.
• While it reduces cysts and bacteria per certification, operations with critical microbiological requirements may require additional treatment steps.

Specifications

Compatible Systems	ICE160-S, ICE260-S
Flow Rate	High flow up to system rating (up to 3.34 gpm implied)
Contaminants Reduced	Chlorine taste and odor, sediment, cysts, bacteria, particulate
Media Technology	Integrated Membrane Pre-Activated Carbon Technology (I.M.P.A.C.T.) dual-zone
Change-Out Design	Sanitary Quick Change (no contact with filter media)
Certification	NSF/ANSI Standard 42 and Standard 53 certified

Our Verdict

The Aqua-Pure replacement cartridge is a practical choice for commercial ice machine operators who need reliable contaminant reduction and easier maintenance. Its targeted design for ICE160-S and ICE260-S systems, combined with scale inhibition and sanitary change-outs, makes it good value for foodservice businesses seeking cleaner ice and fewer service disruptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this cartridge fit my ice maker?
It is specifically designed for ICE160-S and ICE260-S commercial ice maker systems; confirm your model before buying.

Does it reduce bacteria and cysts?
Yes, the system is certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for reduction of cysts and includes technologies that reduce bacteria.

Can I change the cartridge without shutting off water?
When used with the ball-valve included with the ICE160-S system, no separate water shutoff is required for cartridge changes.