Fountain Nozzle and Diffuser Nightly Soak SOP

Standard operating procedure for nightly disassembly, soaking, sanitizing, rinsing, and air-drying of fountain nozzles and diffusers to prevent mold and yeast buildup in beverage dispensing equipment.

Steps

• Verify the sanitation setup
  The operator verifies that the approved sanitizer is available, mixed to the correct concentration, and labeled if pre-mixed. The operator confirms the sink or soak container is clean, the drying area is clear, and the sanitation log is available for completion.
• Shut down the fountain dispense point
  The operator disables the fountain dispense point using the site-specific shutdown method. The operator verifies that no product is dispensing before touching removable parts.
• Remove the nozzle and diffuser
  The operator removes the nozzle and diffuser according to the equipment design and manufacturer guidance. The operator places the parts in a clean container to prevent contamination.
• Inspect the removed parts for damage or buildup
  The operator inspects the nozzle and diffuser for cracks, warping, residue, odor, discoloration, or visible mold or yeast buildup. The operator records any abnormal condition in the sanitation log.
• Soak the parts in approved sanitizer
  The operator places the nozzle and diffuser into the approved sanitizer solution. The operator ensures the parts are fully submerged and starts timing the contact period according to the sanitizer label and site procedure.
• Wait for the full sanitizer contact time
  The operator keeps the parts in the sanitizer for the full required contact time. The operator does not remove the parts early unless the sanitizer instructions or site procedure require a different verified time.
• Rinse the parts if the sanitizer label requires it
  The operator rinses the nozzle and diffuser with potable water only if the sanitizer label or site procedure requires rinsing. The operator avoids touching the food-contact surfaces with unclean hands or tools.
• Air-dry the parts completely
  The operator places the parts on a clean drying rack or clean lint-free towel. The operator allows the parts to air-dry fully before reassembly.
• Reassemble and restore the dispense point
  The operator reinstalls the dry nozzle and diffuser according to the equipment design. The operator restores the dispense point and checks for proper fit and secure placement.
• Verify operation and record completion
  The operator dispenses a small test amount if site procedure allows and verifies normal flow with no leaks or unusual odor. The operator completes the sanitation log, including date, time, sanitizer used, contact time, and any non-conformance or escalation notes.