Choosing the Best Ice Machine for Your Business

It’s worth spending a little time and effort choosing your new commercial ice machine, because getting it right can eliminate a range of potential problems further down the line.

Ensuring you have the correct size is important. If it’s too small, you’ll run out of ice (and potentially customers). If it’s too large, you’ll be paying to produce ice that inevitably has to be discarded because it’s no longer fresh.

Here’s how to calculate the output you need.

Method 1

Randomly pick several different days when takings were at their highest, or when you hosted a busy event or function, and use these to estimate the number of drinks you sold that required ice. Also consider any ice used in ice buckets, food displays or in the kitchen.

Method 2

As a rough guide, in a reasonably busy restaurant or a bar that’s open all day, you can estimate approximately 1kg of ice per cover, or around 200–300g per iced drink or cocktail.

Method 3

Call in a reputable icemaker company. Experience counts here — a knowledgeable ice machine specialist can help you identify the ideal ice-making capacity for your operation’s specific requirements.

Choosing Your Machine

Once you know the output you need, there are several additional considerations when choosing your machine:

Choose a reputable brand: A well-specified commercial ice maker can deliver many years of reliable service and won’t let you down during your busiest periods.
Consider energy efficiency: Hydrocarbon refrigerated ice makers are now widely available. These units significantly reduce energy usage and support environmental sustainability goals.
Ice quality matters: Presentation is more important than ever. Choose a machine that produces crystal-clear, long-lasting ice cubes. The appearance and durability of the cube are directly related to its manufacturing temperature and the amount of air trapped inside.
Invest in a well-designed storage bin: Ice bins should be easy to clean and well insulated to slow melting.
Look for removable air filters: A clean air filter helps maintain maximum output. Choose a machine with a detachable condenser air filter that can be easily removed for cleaning.

In summary, investing a little extra effort before buying will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on running your business, rather than resolving ice-related issues.

Feel free to call us on 020 8993 6199 or email office@nelsonwash.co.uk if you have any questions or would like expert advice on choosing the best ice machine for your business.