If you are looking to purchase a new ice machine, there are a few factors that you should consider. One factor is the size of the machine. Some models are large enough to hold 100 pounds of ice. Another consideration is the water treatment that you use to make ice. Some models can be water-cooled, while others can be air-cooled.
Air-cooled ice makers are more cost-effective than water-cooled machines
Air-cooled ice machines use air to cool the machine. Condenser coils and internal fans circulate the air through the ice maker, while condenser coils extract the heat. The heat is then vented through vents on the ice machine. This process reduces the machine’s energy consumption and makes the unit quieter.
Air-cooled ice machines cost less than water-cooled ones. They also use less energy and don’t require special installation features. They don’t require a drain or water line and are easier to maintain. Air-cooled models can be installed almost anywhere. They also consume less electricity, which makes them more economical over the long-term.
Air-cooled ice machines can easily get clogged. Dirty air can clog the fan blades, making the machine work less efficiently. Dirty air can also damage the equipment. Water-cooled models are more expensive to repair and require less skilled technicians.
The energy consumption of an ice-maker varies depending on the model, cooling method, and ice production rate. As the capacity increases, the energy usage per pound of ice decreases. However, water-cooled models use a large amount of water, which translates to higher utility costs for foodservice operators.
If you are looking for a machine that will last for years, the air-cooled machine is a better investment. It requires less maintenance, but can produce more ice. Air-cooled ice machines are more cost-effective and can be a good choice regardless of the size of your business.
Water-cooled ice machines require a separate water line, which is necessary for installation. Furthermore, some cities have regulations on water-cooled commercial ice machines. Water-cooled machines are also less efficient than air-cooled units. Regardless of the type of ice maker you decide to buy, it’s important to find out how much electricity it will use. Water-cooled ice machines must be maintained properly. It is also important to consider the location of your business.
Water-cooled ice machines can be used in areas where it’s difficult to control the temperature. They use five times as much water as air-cooled machines. Water-cooled ice machines can also be installed with a cooling tower to re-use water. However, these machines are not very common in modern buildings due to their high water usage and environmental impact.
Another benefit of an air-cooled ice machine is that they use less water than their water-cooled counterparts. Water-cooled machines use between 187 and 193 gallons of liquid per 100 pounds of ice, while air-cooled machines require less than 20 gallons. These savings may not immediately be apparent, but they will become evident when you consider the total cost over the life of the ice-machine.
The right size ice machine
First, consider the size of your business to determine the best ice machine for you. If your business offers fast-casual dining, you will need to keep your soft drinks at a certain temperature for your customers. You will need to maintain the temperature of the food if your business offers a salad bar or cold buffet. A more expensive restaurant will require a more sophisticated ice machine.
If your business does not have a large staff, you may want to consider a smaller, countertop-mounted ice machine. These machines can produce approximately 400 pounds of ice per hour and are perfect for small cafeterias or office break rooms. Some models can even provide water for customers’ convenience.
In addition to the ice machine, you will need an ice bin to keep your ice fresh. The bin will store the ice produced by your machine until it’s ready to use. The bin size doesn’t have to match the ice machine’s, but it should be considered when you will use it the most.
The size of an ice machine is an important decision, especially if your business is expanding. Consider your budget, your needs, and the number of employees that you would like to hire. Commercial ice machines must meet certain regulations so make sure you choose one that has enough storage. It is also important to consider the size and location of the ice bin.
You will need 1.5 pounds of ice per person if you are opening a restaurant. This is a lot of ice. The capacity of your bin should be 10% to 20% higher than the capacity of your commercial ice machine. This will allow for you to produce more ice during peak and downtimes.
You must consider more than just the size of your ice maker. Your ice machine will last longer if your water is clean and free of contaminants. Water filters will keep your water clean and prevent scaling. Filtering your water will make your ice taste better and clearer.
The energy efficiency of your ice machine is also a significant factor. Energy-efficient machines will use power more effectively and will also reduce your electricity bills. The amount of ice your ice machine produces can be a big factor, as too much ice can contribute to the growth of bacteria and mold. Moreover, it can waste a lot of water.
Ice machines can make a variety of different types of ice. You can choose from flake ice or cube-shaped ice. The type you choose will depend on your business’ needs. However, all types of ice serve the same purpose – to cool down beverages and preserve perishable goods. Their size and shape can affect how fast they melt. If you are a restaurant or bar that serves large numbers of customers, a cube-shaped machine is the best choice.
The right water treatment
You need clean water to make ice machines for commercial purposes. Untreated water can cause a foul-tasting taste in your drinks and can even damage your equipment. Water treatment solutions can help reduce the risk and keep your ice machine running at its best.
Your ice machine’s performance and longevity can be affected by hard minerals in your water. These minerals can cause scale and a reduction in the quality of the ice. To mitigate these problems, consider purchasing water with a lower mineral content. Hard water can also cause damage to appliances and surfaces that are used in ice machines.
In addition to having a good water treatment system, your ice maker should be equipped with a filtration system. A filtration system can remove a variety contaminants that can alter the taste and texture. Reverse osmosis technology can be used to remove hard minerals. An ion-exchange water system can soften the water to improve the taste and texture of ice. Commercial-grade ice machines require larger filters and more complex installations.
When purchasing a water treatment system, it is important to consider the type of water you use. Commercial ice machines can process thousands of gallons of water during their lifetime. If your water is acidic, your cubes may turn out to be mushy or white. A local water specialist can help you choose the best water treatment system to suit your ice machine.
Many manufacturers don’t offer equipment with built-in filters. This is because operating environments can differ greatly from one region to the next. For example, ice machines in a bakery near an oven will need a filter that removes yeast bacteria, which can negatively affect the quality of ice. A water filter may be required for beer facilities to protect the water supply from yeast bacteria.
Some models include UV lamps for water treatment. UV lamps are lighter than pumps and more convenient. However, UV lamps should be placed near the water source. Some models require field cleaning of the UV elements. Make sure you use a water treatment with this feature.
It is important to change the water filter regularly to ensure the best performance of your ice machine. Water with too much mineral content can cause mineral buildup on components, making the unit less efficient and less effective. Also, unfiltered water tends to have a cloudy appearance and tastes worse.
