Now Get a Cool Ice-Making Machine and Liven Up Your Presentation!

Ice was once considered a natural phenomenon but soon transformed into one of the most desired culinary requirements. It began with ordering chunky blocks from colder climates or simply not even seeing one if you were from equatorial regions. At the turn of the 20th century, the idea of preserving ice in your own homes became a pop culture phenomenon. The introduction of compact, and affordable refrigerators, meant food preservation and ice production in an instant. Furthermore, the invention of automatic icemaker machines changed the way basic food requirements were met forever. While the home ice maker is simpler the ice machine ensures that most of the process is automatic. This article covers the different kinds of ice makers you need for either home or commercial purposes.

Table of content:

• Types of Ice Machines
• Different Technology Options
• Types of Ice
• Factors to Consider Before Buying an Ice Machine

Types of Ice Machines

Getting the right ice maker is crucial to your business. It is all about the space, presentation, and requirements. The market offers a wide variety of ice makers, that can fulfill these needs. So, you can opt for anything from an under-counter and freestanding model to a countertop ice machine.

1. - Undercounter Ice Makers

Ideal for when you want large amounts of ice while managing space these machines fit under a counter. In the absence, of space, it can also be installed alongside your cabinets keeping the countertop free for other items or activities. Typically, they are quite useful for instances where you need more ice so, most owners prefer these for larger gatherings, parties, events, etc. Due to their large size, they come with some additional features. So, if you have a summer lounging space where you host guests you can place this within reach for easier access to ice. Additionally, if you are looking to place them outdoors, then you can go for brands that offer outdoor installation. This naturally extends to other special scenarios such as bars, cafes, and restaurants. There is an attached small to medium-sized storage bin, tucked away. While they can produce around 350 lbs. of ice per day, they are not apt for bigger restaurants or hotels. Besides, might be a little challenging to use. However, they are convenient and affordable. 

2. - Freestanding or Modular Ice Makers

If you want a quick service then the freestanding ice maker is a good buy. It can produce large amounts of ice, and has an integrated storage bin, making it easier to access ice faster. Some can easily hold 2000 pounds of ice. This makes them an ideal appliance for large restaurants that use ice frequently and in huge amounts. They are also a good placement in your garage or outdoor kitchen when you have a large number of guests and you need to serve them continuously. A versatile addition to any kitchen they are customizable and easier to service. All these advantages naturally mean that they come at a higher price, consuming more power, than the other types of machines. For some models, the ice bin has to be purchased separately.

3. - Countertop Ice Makers

When all the other options are not feasible for you then you can always go for the countertop ice maker. You can have ice on demand, without worrying about space. They can be conveniently placed anywhere for easy access to ice, besides being easy to install. For regular, but smaller amounts of ice, the countertop ice machine is a good investment. In fact, you will find many refrigerators equipped with this technology. You can simply get ice cubes by holding your cup under the sensor. Very convenient and feasible, this machine often doubles up as an ice and water dispenser. However, there is minimal production and storage for these machines, so choose them according to your needs.

Different Technology Options

Given the latest, inventions and constant innovation in technology buyers can now choose the method of getting ice depending on their requirements, capacity, and area. Ice maker machines nowadays come in two or three options - air-cooled, water-cooled ice machines and remote-cooled ice machines.

• Air-cooled ice machines

These machines draw the air up and over the condenser. This then uses fans and vents to blow out any hot air, keeping the ice chilled. The heat is drawn off the refrigeration lines, which allows the unit to cool down in the process. Most people prefer these as they are good, cheap, and energy-efficient. Besides being quick and easy to install, they only require fans and vents and not water lines. This saves you quite a bit of expense on monthly water bills. However, before installation choose the area, that provides enough space above, around, and behind the unit, for expelling air. Expectedly, the surrounding area gets heated the fan and vents need regular cleaning to prevent dust and grime build-up. The external temperatures, need to remain cool and consistent temperature. If it is otherwise production of ice will weaken and the machine will shut down.

• Water-cooled ice machines

These models use water, and a compressor to absorb the heat and then, drain out the excess. There are two lines - one goes into the icemaker and the other runs alongside the refrigerant. An effective and versatile technology it can function in any environment. The downside is that they require plenty of water, say, five times more than the air-cooled machine. So, purchasing check with your municipal laws to understand how this might impact your water bill. On the bright side, they do not heat the surrounding area making it ideal for hotter and humid climates. They also use less electricity, have no fans, and make less noise. You need to be careful with water consumption, though. If you live in an area with an acute water shortage, then this might be an expensive buy, so weigh your options carefully.

• Remote-cooled ice machines

If budget is not an issue and want to add a cool factor to your kitchen then you can choose a remote-cooled ice machine. Typically, the condenser technology is installed elsewhere, but mostly on the roof, keeping it efficiently away from sight. The ice bin is installed in the kitchen. Despite their capacity and features you barely hear a noise when they produce ice. They are expensive and only compatible with modular ice machines.  

Types of Ice

Depending on the kind of presentation, food, or drink you offer you can choose a variety of ice options, such as nugget, cubed, and crushed. Since each drink or food has its unique uses these shapes can enhance the overall presentation. So, if you want to add a bit of texture, to cocktails, protein shakes, or desserts then an ice maker is the perfect buy.

i. - Nugget

Nugget ice cubes have a chewy, unique texture as well as a small size and high surface area to volume ratio. So, if you have trouble chewing then this shape allows you to enjoy your food without hurting your gums. It also enables the drinks to chill rapidly, and since it is porous it absorbs the flavor of your drink. Its versatile quality makes it a popular pick in aged care facilities, hotels, restaurants, and convenience stores due to its versatility.

ii. - Cubed

Whether they are small, medium, or large-sized cubed ice, is a versatile shape used for anything from neat liquors to mixed drinks, soft drinks, iced tea, and coffee. Since they have slow melt rates they are preferred by restaurants. This slowly melts in the drink while also diluting it, allowing you to enjoy a balanced flavor. This also makes it possible to be used for larger beverage options like a punch bowl or a pitcher. While they are apt for bagging, they should not be used for ice dispensers.

iii. - Flake Ice

Flake ice resembles snow as they are thin, softly shaped shards. They are mostly used for specific chilling and presentation needs, such as displaying fresh seafood and maintaining the crunchiness of vegetables in salad bars and buffets.  The large surface area allows for efficient heat transfer, rapidly chilling down surrounding items. Also, the soft texture is ideal for cold compresses, as it provides a comfortable and even cooling effect on injuries.

iv. - Gourmet Ice Cubes

Gourmet ice cubes as the name suggests, add an artistic flair to a drinks or food presentation. You will often find them used to elevate the look of upscale cocktails. It is denser, and has a slower melt rate, which minimizes dilution, keeping the drink perfectly chilled. It is quite useful when added to premium liquors as you can savor the full flavor profile. So be it cocktails or neat spirits ‘on the rocks’, these cubes are preferred above all else.

v. - Bullet Ice Cubes

Another popular shape is the bullet ice, or pearl ice, ideally found in mixed drinks. The larger surface area created by the hollow core and elongated shape ensures that the drink is chilled faster and evenly diluted. It also maintains the fizzing in carbonated beverages. This efficient and space-saving shape makes it a popular option in hotels and self-serve fountain machines.

Factors to Consider Before Buying an Ice Machine

• Size & Production Capacity

Do consider the size and production capacity depending on the space, location, and weather. Restaurants need large quantities of ice quickly while homeowners might prioritize a compact model that fits in their kitchen. At times you need to decide on the amount, based on the busiest and hottest day, busy weekend, or holiday. The higher the external heat the lesser the ice production, since the machine needs to work harder. Assess the high temperatures of your region, and get a machine with more output. Asses the amount required for bars, kitchens, or even medical emergency kits.

• Ice Cubes Shapes

Ice maker machines come with various ice-cube options. So depending on the time of services you offer you should also decide on what type of ice cube you need. After all, presentation is key in the hospitality sector. Besides aesthetic purposes ice shapes are designed for different purposes, be it hospitals, seafood, or bar presentations. So, check whether you want a nugget ice maker, square, crescent, bullet, or all.

• Dimension & Space

No matter how good your ice-making machine is, you need to check the dimensions and space beforehand. Air-cooled machines need more ventilation, as they emit heat out of vents. Ideally, you should place it 1 ½ feet away from the wall.

• Drainage

If you go for a modular or self-contained ice machine, make a floor drainage system for excess water removal. Some options such as a wye fitting, or reducer coupling could be placed near the sink. You could also go for a 4″ or 6″ bell fitting. Ensure that there is an air gap to prevent reverse water draining.

• Rent or Buy

Given the space, location, and budget, your final decision rests on either buying or renting. The final thing to consider is whether you should buy or rent/lease an ice maker machine. Buying might bring permanence and freedom but you have to incur the cleaning and maintenance cost. Leasing or renting solves issues like this, in addition to repairs and replacement.

In conclusion, the constantly evolving technology has given us some really amazing and cool options of icemaking machines. So, whether you are a restaurateur or a homeowner, whether you live in a cold or a hot region, or whether you need huge or less amounts of ice cubes you have a large selection of these machines. So, go get your portable ice maker, countertop, under-counter, or modular ice-making machine and entertain your guests with awesome presentations.