My ice cream is frozen solid on the outside but still liquid in the center. What can I do?
If your ice cream freezes at the edges but remains liquid in the middle, it’s usually because the mixture wasn’t cold enough before starting.
Always ensure that your base mixture is well-chilled in the refrigerator before pouring it into the machine. This allows the compressor to work efficiently and ensures even freezing.
Additionally, the stirring motor automatically shuts off once the mixture becomes too firm to protect the drive. If you don’t remove the ice immediately afterward, the outer layer can freeze solid while the center starts to melt.
Tips for next time:
- Reduce the mixing time slightly.
- Cool your base thoroughly before use.
- Check your recipe balance: around 15–20% sugar or sweetener of total mass helps prevent overfreezing and keeps texture creamy.
Why does the machine stop before the timer runs out?
Your ice cream maker has an automatic shut-off that stops the paddle when the mixture reaches a set firmness.
This prevents the motor from overloading and protects the paddles from breaking.
The cooling system continues running, keeping the ice at a stable temperature.
Why does my ice cream have a different texture than store-bought?
Homemade ice cream will always differ from industrially produced ice cream.
Store or parlor ice cream is deep-frozen for hours, while fresh ice from your machine is closer to soft-serve consistency.
To get firmer results:
- Transfer it to a freezer for a few hours after churning.
- Avoid excess sugar if you want it firmer (sugar lowers the freezing point).
- For creamier, softer texture, add more sugar or a small amount of alcohol.
How does alcohol affect homemade ice cream?
Alcohol raises the freezing point of the mixture, meaning your ice cream will turn out softer.
To balance texture, add alcohol only near the end of the churning process.
My machine makes a rattling or knocking noise – is that normal?
Yes, that’s normal — as long as it happens only when moving or shaking the machine.
The compressor is a piston pump, and internal components are mounted on springs for vibration damping.
When moved, their mass inertia can cause a knocking sound.
If you hear noises during normal operation, contact customer service.
Otherwise, the sound is harmless and nothing to worry about.
My ice cream maker was delivered upside down. Is that a problem?
No, that’s not a problem and won’t affect performance.
However, before use, let the machine stand upright for at least 4 hours.
This allows the coolant fluid to settle properly before operation.
Error codes
Below you will find an overview of all error codes and their meanings for the different ice cream maker models, as well as the recommended troubleshooting steps.
Error Code | Emma | Elii | Elisa | Erika |
E1 | Short circuit in temperature sensor | Short circuit in temperature sensor | Short circuit in temperature sensor | Short circuit in temperature sensor |
E2 | Open circuit in temperature sensor | Open circuit in temperature sensor | Open circuit in temperature sensor | Open circuit in temperature sensor |
E3 | Compressor not working | Compressor not working | Compressor not working | – |
E4 | Short circuit in temperature sensor of mixing motor | Short circuit in temperature sensor of mixing motor | Short circuit in temperature sensor of mixing motor | Short circuit in temperature sensor of mixing motor |
E5 | Motor temperature sensor – “undefined state” | Motor temperature sensor – “undefined state” | Motor temperature sensor – “undefined state” | Motor temperature sensor – “undefined state” |
Solutions
- E1/3: Internal defect – unit must be replaced (under warranty)
- E2: The NTC circuit is open(temperature sensor issue).
- A technician can check whether the NTC connector on the power board is loose.
- If not, the component must be replaced.
- E4: Unplug the device and let it cool down for about one hour, then reconnect and test again.
- E5: Unplug the device and plug it back in.
If the error persists → the unit is defective and must be replaced.
Temperature Sensor (NTC):
The NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor. Its resistance decreases as the surrounding temperature increases. It is used to monitor and control the temperature during ice cream or yogurt production.
What happens if the NTC fails?
If the sensor is defective, the machine can no longer regulate temperature correctly — heating or cooling may stop. In this case, the sensor or control board must be replaced by a service technician.
The stirring paddle broke – what can cause this?
Please check whether the lid was opened during operation.
If the machine runs without the lid in place, the paddle loses stability and can break at the drive coupling.
In such cases, the entire machine must be replaced.
This is not a defect, but the result of incorrect handling.
How long do homemade ice cream and yogurt last?
Homemade ice cream and yogurt are best enjoyed fresh, as they contain no preservatives.
- Ice cream:
Store frozen in an airtight container, ideally lid-down to reduce ice crystal formation.
Keeps for several weeks.
If made with raw egg, consume within 3 weeks.
Do not refreeze thawed or partially melted ice cream. - Yogurt:
Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
Over time, yogurt naturally becomes more tart — this is normal fermentation.
How should I clean the plastic parts and storage containers?
All removable plastic parts are dishwasher-safe.
To prevent warping:
- Place them on the top rack.
- Use a cycle with maximum 60 °C (140 °F).
- Make sure no parts are squeezed or trapped by other dishes.
How should I store homemade ice cream?
For perfect texture and fewer ice crystals:
- Transfer fresh ice cream to an airtight container immediately.
- Place it in the freezer lid-side down.
- Let it rest for several hours to firm up.
- Always let it soften slightly before serving for a creamy texture.
For more detailed tips, see our full Ice Storage Guide for freezing, scooping, and long-term preservation.