The need for ice extends beyond the hospitality sector. The healthcare sector needs ice and requires it for surgeries and to transport medical supplies safely.
Incredibly, the market for commercial ice producers was valued at $1.5 billion in 2020, and by 2027, that market is projected to increase by $1 billion. Needless to say, many different sectors have a growing demand for it.
If you’re in the market for commercial ice machines, a few considerations can help you choose the best one for your company. Let’s take a look at a few factors.
Does your Organization Need A lot Of Ice?
Whether you’re in the restaurant business, need to showcase fresh fish, want to move pharmaceuticals, or work in an office environment; you can’t afford to run out of ice. It’s crucial that you take your time and perform this analysis accurately.
Every ice dispenser has a rating for ice output. This is the volume of ice that it can make in a day. The least productive types are typically countertop and under-counter, with daily outputs of 350–400 lbs.
The sizes of modular components are varied. A few can make up to 1,900 pounds of ice per day. Whether it’s the hottest day or the busiest month, you should be aware of your ice demands. Let’s take Halloween as an example. This is one of the busiest days, no matter which part of the country you’re in. Your ice maker will produce less ice if the water entering is at a different temperature, ultimately reducing output.
Holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas are probably the busiest days of the year if you work in a hospital. If you use ice to alleviate swelling, consider how much you will need that day and work from there.
You should also think about going a little over the required percentage. If your busiest day requires 800 pounds, pick a unit that can handle 900 lbs. or a bit more. You wouldn’t want to cause panic among your patients and fellow workers about an ice shortage.
What Kind Of Ice Cube Shape Do You Want?
Typically, industrial ice machines will only generate one type of ice. The most well-liked are:
- Nugget
- Cubed
- Crescent
- Shaved/Flakes
The most common, cubed ice, is fantastic for drinks. However, the cubes’ size makes them potential choking hazards for young children or patients, so healthcare facilities shouldn’t use this.
This kind of ice has different names due to them being produced by various manufacturers. Some call them cubelets or chewable nuggets. Shaved or flaked ice is great for making slushies and snow cones. However, it’s primarily employed to produce eye-catching displays of seafood and cold food products.
Undercounter vs. Countertop vs. Modular Commercial Ice Machine
Modular Ice Dispenser
A head and bin combo or a modular ice machine is the best option for busy restaurants and bars. These units can produce a significant amount of ice when you need it quickly. To ensure that you always have quick access to the ice, you’ll need to purchase a bin that can store roughly two-thirds of what the head unit produces.
Undercounter
These commercial ice makers occupy about the same size as a typical dishwasher. They work well in small spaces and can generate an ample amount of ice for a bar that gets reasonably busy. However, a busy restaurant can discover that they don’t have enough production capacity to meet its demands.
Countertop
If you have limited space and need a handy ice machine on-site then a countertop is the way to go. Although it produces less amount of ice as compared to the other types, it’s handy and comes in a variety of sizes.
Condenser Types
A condenser is used by ice makers to chill water and produce ice. There are three choices, and each has advantages and disadvantages.
Air-Cooled Condensers
These are the most common types installed in ice makers. You must ensure that there is enough space for hot air to leave. Insufficient ventilation will cause warm air to build up around the machine.
This will overheat the machine, reduce output, put more strain on the machine, and increase the likelihood that it may malfunction. Take a look at the manufacturer’s requirements for space and ventilation before purchasing this kind of unit. An air-cooled condenser is the finest choice for several organizations. They function effectively and are the most economical option when installed properly.
Water-Cooled Condenser
If you have space limitations and aren’t able to get an air-cooled condenser, then these bad boys are the ones for you. On the flip side, these commercial ice machines are pricey and challenging to set up. Generally speaking, it’s advisable to opt for ice machine rental services and try them out for a while.
Remote Condenser
A remote condenser, which resembles an air conditioner, is located outside the property. The good thing is that there will be less noise indoors, so your workers can do their jobs properly while delivering the best results for your company.
Commercial Ice Machines Rental Services
Renting is a fantastic option whether you want to acquire a commercial ice dispenser on a temporary basis or permanently install one. You receive all the advantages for a set monthly price without the hassle of installing it yourself.
Their ice dispenser rental program includes ice machines, water filters, and bin or dispensers with free installation, scheduled maintenance, and repairs.
