Types of Commercial Ice Makers and The Types of Ice They Produce

Commercial ice makers are used in many different establishments, from fast-food chains to health clinics, and the uses of ice they produce play a crucial role in day-to-day operations, from refreshing beverages to preserving perishables. Understanding the various types of ice machines and the unique forms of ice they produce is essential for selecting the right equipment for your business needs.

Modular ice machines are powerhouse producers, ideal for environments with high ice consumption, delivering up to 1000 lbs of ice daily but require separate storage solutions. Countertop ice machines offer a more compact and integrated production-storage solution, suitable for small businesses and healthcare clinics, with a production capacity of over 300 lbs. Undercounter ice makers strike a balance between production and storage, providing easy access and a production capacity of over 350 lbs, making them a favorite in bars and cafes. Lastly, floor model ice makers with dispensers represent the pinnacle of industrial ice-making, with a significant size and production rate complemented by their versatile dispensing features found in establishments like hotels and large restaurants.

Each type of machine caters to different needs, producing a range of ice shapes from full cubes to flake ice, ensuring that every beverage and preservation requirement is impeccably met.

Ice Machine Types

You can utilize 4 main types of ice makers in your kitchen:

Modular Ice Machines

Modular Ice Machines are heavy-duty models that produce up to around 1000 lbs (453.6 kg) daily. You can invest in one of these to have a constant flow of ice in your kitchen, but keep in mind that these units are only for production. They won’t be able to store the ice they produce. So, it would be wise to purchase an ice bin alongside it to keep the product in a sterile environment.

Ice Types They Produced

Modular ice makers and combination models are the most valuable choices when it comes to full ice cubes. Full ice cubes and gourmet ice cubes are the biggest forms of ice cubes used in cafes and bars. These are generally found in high-end environments, and their production might prove more expensive than other shapes.

Since full cubes hold more water in their formation, the production rate will be lower in comparison to smaller forms. This means that you need a heavy-duty high-end environment or rather a large machine to keep a fast flow of big cubes. Modular ice machines also produce various ice shapes depending on the model and manufacturer. Common ice shapes produced by modular ice machines include:

Countertop Ice Machines

Countertop ice machines are more common in small businesses and households. They aren’t the most industrial models, yet they can still produce over 300 lbs (136.1 kg) daily and meet your needs. Most healthcare clinics, cafes, and bars will have these units since they are easy to operate and come with an installed storage bin. While the storage space is not very big, this isn’t much of a problem considering the fact that countertop models are preferred by busy environments that consume the produced ice rather quickly.

Ice Types They Produced

Countertop ice machines typically produce the following types of ice:

Undercounter Ice Makers

Undercounter ice makers are an excellent blend of modular models and countertops. While they can produce over 350 lbs (158.75 kg) a day, they can also store the produced ice thanks to their relatively bigger storage space. Dissimilar to countertop models, you wouldn’t be in a rush to make room in the storage space to increase production. Also, undercounter placement makes it easy to reach and use the ice, which is why these models can be seen in many bars and cafes. 

Ice Types They Produced

Undercounter ice makers can produce various shapes of ice, depending on the model and design of the machine. Common ice shapes produced by undercounter ice makers are listed below:

Floor Model Ice Makers with Ice Dispensers

Floor model ice makers with ice dispensers are possibly the most industrial form of these valuable machines. They are bigger in size compared to other models, and they produce more. Their dispenser feature makes them versatile machines that can adapt to different needs. It is possible to find them in hotels, large restaurants, or even hospitals.

Ice Types They Produced

Floor model ice makers with ice dispensers typically produce several different shapes of ice to cater to various preferences and uses. Some of the common ice shapes produced by these machines are listed below:

Conclusion

The selection of an ice maker is a significant decision for any food service or hospitality establishment, impacting both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. From the robust Modular Ice Machines that cater to high-volume needs without storage to the versatile Floor Model Ice Makers with Dispensers suitable for varied and extensive use, each type of ice machine offers unique benefits. Countertop and Undercounter Ice Makers provide convenient, integrated solutions for spaces where efficiency and accessibility are key.

With the variety of ice shapes produced, each suited to different applications and preferences, the right ice machine not only meets the immediate demands of service but also enhances the overall experience. Whether it’s the longevity of full ice cubes or the quick-cooling nugget ice, ensuring you have the right type and size of the machine is vital in keeping your operations cool and your customers refreshed.