The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: 7 Steps to Find the Perfect Commercial Ice Machine For Your Business - Memphis Ice

Purchasing a commercial ice machine can seem like a daunting task. After all, we’re talking about one of the most important pieces of kitchen equipment your business will use! Without the right ice maker, you could find yourself running out of ice and unable to meet demand—a dreadful situation.  

So, how do you avoid that? By investing in the right commercial ice machine. In order to do that, you need to follow 7 essential steps. Consider this your commercial ice machine buying guide—we’ll walk you through the questions you need to ask in order to buy the perfect commercial ice maker for your business. At the end of this post, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed and confident buying decision.

The first step in buying a commercial ice maker is to assess your specific ice production needs. Consider the following factors:

• Peak demand: Calculate the maximum amount of ice you'll require during your busiest hours.
• Type of establishment: Determine whether you need ice for a restaurant, bar, hotel, healthcare facility, or other business, as the ice requirements will vary.

Average daily usage: Estimate the average amount of ice you'll need on a typical day (and make sure you add an extra buffer—better safe than sorry!)

Commercial ice makers come in various types, each suited to different applications. Here are some common options:

• Modular ice machines: Ideal for high-volume ice production, these ice dispensers require a separate storage bin for ice
• Undercounter ice machines: Compact and designed to fit under counters, these units are perfect for small bars, cafes, or coffee shops
• Countertop ice makers: Smaller in size and portable, these machines are suitable for limited ice production needs, special events, or small office break rooms

Check out all our commercial ice machines online by clicking here.

Commercial ice makers offer different ice types and shapes, such as cubes, flakes, nuggets, or gourmet ice. The choice depends on your business requirements and the type of beverages or applications you serve. To make the best decision, consider factors like: 

• Ice cube size
• Melt rate
• Production speed
• Visual appeal

Do you have space for a large commercial ice machine? Before you make a purchase decision, evaluate the available space where you intend to install the ice maker. Measure the dimensions and consider factors like ventilation, water supply, and drainage. 

Remember that the longevity of your ice machine depends on installing it in the right place, so make an installation plan beforehand. You’ll also want to double check that your ice machine is installed in compliance with local plumbing and electrical codes.

Once you have your ideal ice machine in mind, think about any additional features or accessories that can enhance the ice-making experience and ensure ease of use. For example:

• Self-cleaning functions for improved hygiene
• Energy-saving features to reduce operational costs
• Filtration systems to enhance ice quality and minimize scaling
• Ice storage bins or dispensers to complement the ice maker

You’ll also want to consider the kind of cooling method you want your ice machine to have. Commercial ice makers use different cooling methods such as air-cooled, water-cooled, and remote-condenser models. Each method has its advantages and considerations. For example, air-cooled machines are more energy-efficient, while water-cooled machines are quieter. Remote-condenser models are suitable when heat and noise reduction are important.

Take the time to research different brands and models of commercial ice makers. Take time to look up the differences between Ice-O-Matic and Manitowoc ice machines, and Hoshizaki and Everest ice makers. Look for reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality, durable machines and verify your research with customer reviews and ratings. 

A local ice machine distributor can help you assess the benefits of different commercial ice machine brands, and provide information that will guide you to the best purchase decision. 

Establish a budget based on your business requirements and long-term goals. Think outside the initial purchase cost and consider installation expenses, ongoing maintenance, and energy consumption. 

Remember that investing in a reliable, energy-efficient ice maker can save you money in the long run—even if it’s not the cheapest option when you buy it.