Ice-making machines work to produce a lot of ice through a simple process which is known as adiabatic cooling. In this process a highly pressured substance tends to expand, this unusual change in pressure then causes the substance to cool very quickly. Refrigerant is very important in the function of a commercial ice machine.
Nowadays refrigeration systems work in such a way that they use some form of refrigerant to get water cold in such a way that the water freezes and creates ice. All the way through the refrigerant’s journey, it continues to heat and cools. During all these heating and cooling phases, the refrigerant tends to change the physical states, from liquid, to vapor and back to a liquid again. At the time when the refrigerant reaches the evaporator, it should be in the form of a low-pressure and low-temperature liquid. At this stage, the heat in the water travels towards the cold refrigerant which then lowers the temperature of the water to the extent that it becomes ice.
How to buy a Commercial Ice Machine?
No matter what you are going to buy for your convenience whether it is a dishwasher or an ice-making machine you always have to spend your money wisely. Spending your hardly earned money wisely also means that buying your required equipment from a well reputed and proper retailer. Along with that, you would never ever want to spend your money on such a thing that does not offer any sort of ease or resilience. Usually, those people who run commercial kitchens have a proper idea about what kind of dishes they want to offer and their focus audience. But at the same time, they might not have proper information about the equipment they need to use such as cooking range, refrigerators, commercial ice machines, etc. so all the power goes to the retailers and all they can do is to ask the retailer which machine or equipment is best for their use. This is why it is very crucial to purchase all the appliances you need from an experienced retailer.
Each piece of equipment in a commercial kitchen has its own features and advantages. Therefore, when you shop for any of these appliances, you will need to consider particular specific characteristics of the product.
Here is an overview of the things that you might consider before buying a commercial ice machine for your commercial kitchens.
Types of Ice You Require
Every different kind of commercial ice machine makes different kinds and shapes of ice. It totally depends on your preference that which kind of ice you require. The different kind of ice includes
- Flake ice
- Gourmet ice
- Nugget ice
- Cubes ice
- top hat ice
you may see what kind out of these you require in your commercial kitchen and then decide which kind of ice-making machine is suitable for you.
Energy Efficiency
Whenever you are thinking to invest your money in something as a commercial ice machine, the first thing you must consider is its energy efficiency. This is very important because energy-efficient machines will utilize power more effectively. Consequently, you will get the required machine that offers the desired levels of power, nothing more nothing less. All at once, you will not have to worry about your electricity bills after you buy an energy-efficient machine. You must keep this thing in mind that ice machines utilize more energy for making ice as compared to storing it. So, try to purchase a machine with a large storage capacity. As well, purchase units with Energy Star seal to make sure that the product is energy efficient.
Compressor
As the matter of fact, all these air-cooled compressors use a smaller amount of water. Apart from it, they are inexpensive and energy-efficient as well. Although these ice machines can be a lot noisier. They tend to produce some exhaust as well. In order to reduce this, you will need to set an air-conditioning system in your commercial kitchen.
Some remote-cooled condensers will be separate from the ice unit. Thus, causing the installation costs for these machines. Although, they will not be as noisy as the air-cooled or water-cooled units are. In contrast, water-cooled condensers can increase the utilization of water. People tend to use them in those places where they have higher temperatures. This is because air-cooled compressors are not able to work as well in this kind of area.
Water Filter
It would be the best option if you buy a machine that has a water filter in it. These filters can easily get rid of any kinds of impurities that can be in the form of minerals from reaching the system. These minerals have to be removed because they can significantly change the flavor of your drinks. Apart from this, proper water filters will help you save a lot of energy costs. These water filters can thwart the build-up of deposits and minerals, which can reduce the functioning of the machine. Therefore, the machine would be able to continue performing at its best.
Size and Capacity
You would never want to invest your money in buying a commercial ice machine with the wrong size or capacity. This would only be the worst choice you would ever make. Similarly, before buying a machine you must evaluate the amount of ice you have to store in the machine and then decide accordingly. If you are looking for a large volume of ice, you must go for modular ice machines.
Speed of commercial Ice Machine
All the ice-making machines that have high production rates will produce new ice faster. In this way, you will be able to keep high the supply levels effortlessly. Speed for the ice making has to be good when you are running short of time or when you have a lot of customers in your restaurant to serve. You need to check the specifications 24 hours before buying any machine to determine the volume of ice the machines can produce.
3 Best Commercial Ice Maker Brands 2024
Scotsman C0322SA-1 Prodigy Plus Ice Maker
This one can produce up to 356 lb. of small 7/8″ x 7/8″ x 3/8″, ice cubes per day. This can be the best solution for your investment. in today’s world, the Scotsman unit has a built-in function that will alert the staff that it is the time for some normal maintenance, or you may call for service before an issue turns into an emergency. This feature makes it an effective and better choice for people who are looking for a reliable ice machine to support their business.
These auto-alert indicator lights frequently communicate about the operating system, and they always alert your staff that it’s the time to descale, sanitize, and more. It also delivers maximum dependability by reducing scale buildup for a longer time during the cleanup process. Preemptive maintenance is very simple because it has easily removable panels that allow clear access to internal components. These reusable air filters are easily removable from the outside and all external panel modules are crafted for optimal aesthetic appeal through superior fit and finish.
Manitowoc UDF0140A NEO 26″ Air Cooled Undercounter Dice Cube Ice Machine IR1890N
You can easily make and store ice in one compact machine called Manitowoc under the counter ice machine. This one is an air-cooled ice machine that has impressive ice production, user-friendly controls, and it also possesses simple maintenance. It has a wide range of features that starts from an LED push pad control panel to an ergonomic scoop with a comfortable grip handle that can be attached at either side of the machine, this ice cube machine is perfect for any commercial use. This machine is ideal for making ice in small volume applications or as an enhancement to a larger ice machine, this unit boasts an ample, 90 lb. capacity bin and has an angled door that slides up and out of the way for easy access. It can produce up to 135 lb. of dice cube ice per day.
There is a display icon that shows you when the power is on, the bin is full, when the service is needed, and when there is a clean cycle in progress. There is also a “delay” button that can terminate the ice production for 4, 12, or 24 hours. The machine’s air filter is designed for simple, tool-free removal for quick access during routine cleaning and maintenance, while the bin can be easily removed for full access to the machine’s interior components during more thorough cleaning and maintenance.
Hoshizaki F-801MAJ-C Air-Cooled Cubelet Ice Maker
The Hoshizaki air-cooled modular ice maker is 22 by 27.4 by 26 inches, it is the best to chill your cocktails. This is a stainless-steel commercial ice maker which can make about 690 pounds of nugget-style ice a day and can drop ice every 10 to 12 minutes.
Hoshizaki is actually a cheaper and more affordable option in the long run than many other ice-making machines. The Hoshizaki also has a three-year warranty for parts and labor and is Energy Star qualified.
How To Buy A Commercial Ice Machine FAQs
How do I choose a commercial ice maker?
When choosing a commercial ice maker, consider daily ice needs and select the appropriate capacity and ice type. Measure your kitchen space, ensure accessible water and drainage, and prioritize energy efficiency for cost-effective operation and minimal maintenance.
What size commercial ice maker do I need?
A good rule of thumb is to select an ice maker that produces about 20% more ice than your daily needs. So if your operation needs 500 pounds of ice per day, purchase a 600 lb ice maker. Once your needs exceed 1000 lbs per day, then 10% additional output should suffice.
