Top 3 Types of Commercial Ice Machines for Restaurant Owners
As a restaurant owner, having a reliable source of ice is essential for serving drinks, keeping perishable items cold, and even creating visually appealing dishes. Investing in a commercial ice machine can provide a consistent supply of ice, saving time and money spent on purchasing ice from a supplier. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your restaurant? Below we will be taking a look at the top three types of commercial ice machines available to restaurant owners.
Top 3 Types of Commercial Ice Machines
Here are the top 3 types of commercial ice machines to consider for your restaurant:
Cubed Ice Machines
Cubed ice, also known as “square ice,” is the most common type of ice found in restaurants. It’s easy to scoop and works well for drinks, as it doesn’t melt as quickly as other types of ice. Cubed ice machines come in a variety of sizes and production capabilities, making them a flexible choice for restaurants of all sizes.
Flaked Ice Machines
Flaked ice, also known as “nugget ice,” is a softer and more porous type of ice that’s popular for use in drinks and for keeping seafood and other perishable items cold. Flaked ice machines use a unique process to create small, irregularly shaped ice flakes that are easy to chew and blend well with drinks. These machines are a good choice for seafood restaurants, smoothie bars, and other establishments that require a lot of ice.
Crushed Ice Machines
Crushed ice, also known as “snow ice,” is a type of ice that’s been finely ground into small pieces. It’s often used in cocktails and other drinks that require a lot of ice, as it has a high surface area and melts quickly. Crushed ice machines use a similar process to flaked ice machines, but the ice is ground into a finer consistency. These machines are a good choice for bars and other establishments that serve a lot of cocktails.
Important Factors to Consider When Choosing a Commercial Ice Machine
When choosing a commercial ice machine for your restaurant, it’s important to consider the type of ice you need, the size of your establishment, and your budget. Cubed ice machines are the most versatile and widely used option, while flaked and crushed ice machines are better suited for specific types of establishments.
Production Capacity
- It’s important to consider the production capacity of the ice machine you choose.
- You’ll want a machine that can produce enough ice to meet your restaurant’s needs, but not so much that it becomes a burden to store and maintain.
- Consider factors such as the size of your establishment, the number of customers you serve, and the type of ice you’ll be using when determining the right production capacity for your restaurant.
Maintenance and Upkeep
- Finally, be sure to consider the maintenance and upkeep of the ice machine you choose.
- All commercial ice machines require some level of maintenance, including regular cleaning and sanitizing, as well as occasional repairs.
- Look for machines with easy-to-access parts and a good track record for reliability to ensure that your ice machine stays in good working order for as long as possible.
In conclusion, choosing the right commercial ice machine for your restaurant is essential for ensuring that you have a reliable source of ice for your customers. Consider the type of ice you need, the size of your establishment, and the machine’s production capacity and maintenance requirements to find the perfect fit for your restaurant.
What is the Cost of Commercial Ice Machines?
The cost of commercial ice machines can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and production capacity of the machine. Cubed ice machines tend to be the most affordable option, with prices ranging from around $250 for a small countertop machine to $7,000 and up for a large, high-capacity machine.
Flaked and crushed ice machines tend to be more expensive, with prices starting at around $3,000 and going up from there. It’s important to consider not only the upfront cost of the ice machine, but also the ongoing costs of maintenance, repairs, and electricity usage. Additionally, the cost of ice machine leasing or rental plans should be considered as an alternative to purchasing a machine outright.
Will Owning a Commercial Ice Machine Be Beneficial?
There are numerous benefits to owning a commercial ice machine for your business. Here are just a few:
- Convenience: Having a commercial ice machine on-site means you’ll always have a reliable source of ice for your customers, saving you the time and effort of purchasing ice from a supplier.
- Cost Savings: Buying ice in bulk can be expensive, especially if you go through a lot of it. By producing your own ice, you can save money on purchasing and transportation costs.
- Customization: Commercial ice machines allow you to choose the type and size of ice that best suits your needs. Whether you need cubed, flaked, or crushed ice, you can produce it on demand.
- Consistency: A commercial ice machine ensures that you’ll have a consistent supply of ice, so you don’t have to worry about running out or having to deal with uneven or inconsistent quality.
- Hygiene: Commercial ice machines are designed with hygiene in mind, with features like easy-to-clean surfaces and built-in water filtration systems to ensure that the ice produced is clean and safe to consume.
- Professional Appearance: Having a commercial ice machine in your business can give a professional appearance to your establishment, demonstrating to your customers that you take their experience seriously.
Overall, a commercial ice machine can be a valuable investment for any business that relies on ice for drinks, food preparation, or display. By providing convenience, cost savings, customization, consistency, and a professional appearance, a commercial ice machine can help your business run smoothly and effectively. With these tips in mind buying a commercial ice machine should be a seamless and cost-effective process.