A quality ice maker will save you from constantly running to the grocery store for bags. If you entertain frequently, you’ll want a machine that can produce a lot of ice in a day.
This model churns out up to 27 pounds of clear cubelet ice per day, and it’ll signal when its storage bin is full. It can be installed under a counter or freestanding, with a front venting design for flexibility.
Capacity
An ice machine’s capacity depends on its environment. For instance, a bar needs to have a machine that can keep up with the average number of customers. Then, it should be able to produce more ice when it is needed. The same goes for healthcare clinics that use granular ice for cold compresses.
The type of ice that is required should also be taken into account. This includes ice cubes and nuggets, as well as flake ice. Some machines have separate bins for each type of ice, while others have an internal storage space that can be accessed from the machine’s front.
There are many types of ice making machines that are available. Some are designed for residential use, while others are more industrial. These include modular units that come in a variety of sizes and have different daily production capacities. They typically have an ice bin that can be accessed from the unit’s front, which makes them convenient for restaurants and bars.
Design
An ice making machine is a large industrial machine that uses a set of heat-exchanging coils to turn water into ice. The ice is then transferred to a freezer for storage. The machine can be found in restaurants, hotels and other establishments that serve drinks to customers.
There are many models of ice makers, from small countertop machines to floor models that can produce hundreds of kilograms per day. Choose the one that suits your needs. Consider the amount of ice you need hourly and whether you prefer the ice to be in cube or nugget form.
The ice machine operates on the principle of adiabatic cooling, when a highly pressurized substance expands and cools quickly. As the ice forms, a timer runs a rotating arm that scoops it into a bin. The cycle continues until the ice bin is full, which prompts a shut-off arm to lift up and stop the process. The bin should be cleaned regularly to remove impurities from the water, which could cause clogging and affect ice production.
Ice Shape
While the stereotypical cube might be the most common shape, many ice makers offer a variety of different shapes. They can produce bullet, nugget, and crescent shaped ice, among other options. Some even have the ability to produce crushed ice, ideal for cocktails and slushies.
These machines use a process called adiabatic cooling to create a batch of ice. The rapid expansion of the pressurized refrigerant causes it to cool down. It’s the same principle that makes cold air form when you push down the trigger on a can of pressured air, or the compressed gas in a fire extinguisher.
Hoshizaki is one of the few brands that offers a model that produces crescent ice, which has an attractive appearance and a unique texture. Their machines can also produce sphere ice, which is soft and chewable, and bullet ice, which is hard and slow-melting. They’re perfect for restaurants and bars that want to stand out from the crowd.
Cost
The cost of an ice machine can vary depending on the type and size you choose. You should also consider any installation and delivery costs. Additionally, you should factor in the cost of regular maintenance into your budget.
Look for a reliable model
An ice machine that can reliably make and store large quantities of ice can keep customers happy. Ensure that the unit you select is easy to maintain by choosing one that has clear, simple installation and maintenance procedures. You should also look for a machine that has indicators and alarms to help you identify problems. In addition, you should look for a model that uses less energy. The Energy Star program has published voluntary efficiency standards that you can use to compare machines. These specifications cover air-cooled ice makers that make cube and flake ice. They exclude nugget ice makers until a test standard becomes available. In addition, many state commercial food service programs host incentives with local utilities to encourage the purchase of energy-efficient ice machines.
