Restaurant Ice Machines
Commercial ice machines come in a variety of types from the configuration to the shape of the final product. What’s more, there are many options when it comes to size and compressor types. Buy and sell top brands such as Manitowoc, Scotsman, and Hoshizaki on eBay. When it comes to picking out an ice maker the key is to get one with features that are beneficial to you and your business.
Pick a Setup to Fit Your Needs
The first step when looking for ice bins is to decide on the type of configuration and the size of the unit you plan to purchase. The three basic designs are modular, undercounter, and countertop. Use undercounter ice machines when space is limited, and it's more convenient to get the ice from under the counter. Another option is countertop ice machines, which are perfect in settings where consumers fill the cups themselves. Modular ice machines sit on top of a bin or dispenser; it is not an all-in-one product like the other two described.
It is all about the Shape
There's more to an ice maker machine the most people think about such as what type of ice it produces. For example, if you are looking at cube ice machines, what form to do you want—full cube, half cube or crescent-shaped ice? Perhaps, you are looking for thinner, small flakes that are soft and melt quickly. You typically find flake ice machines in hospitals to keep patients hydrated, in restaurants for use on salad bars and in grocery stores for seafood displays. A favorite among patrons is the nugget style, commercial ice machine that produces round, irregularly shaped balls of ice. Because nugget ice machines produce ice that retains the liquid in the tiny spaces between the compressed flakes, when you chew the ice it will have the flavor of the beverage it was just cooling.
Different Compressor Types
You generally find water cooled ice machines in areas where the air temperature is greater than 80 degrees Fahrenheit such as outside hotel rooms or in concession stands that lack air conditioning. The only downside to this type of setup is that it increases water consumption. If you're looking for an Energy Star Compliance machine, then look at the air cooled ice machines that do not involve any additional water use or cost.
Accessories
Once you have your machine picked out, don't forget about the many accessories that make the process of using an ice machine simpler. You will want to keep ice machines filters as well as ice machines cleaners and sanitizers on hand, so you're always ready to keep your ice tasting its best. Having ice baggers makes it more convenient for customers who need a large quantity of frozen water to keep products cold.