Buyer’s Guide

Ice Dispensers | Ice Makers and Bins | Undercounter Units | Accessories

How Much Production Do I Need?

We’d like to pass on some industry rules-of-thumb. First of all, we measure ice in daily yield. That is, how much ice a machine can ideally produce in a given day (24 hrs.).

For restaurants, we recommend 1.5 lbs. of ice per meal sold. Alternatively, around 5 lbs. per seat per day will generally predict overall demand.

For beverage service, about half of the capacity of your cup should be ice. So a 16 oz. cup should have 8 oz. of ice.

If you operate a cocktail bar, we recommend 3 lbs. of ice per seat.

Cafeterias should provide around 1 lb. per person.

Hospitals should plan for around 10 lb. per patient.

Size Guide

Based on the above production estimates, we recommend that you purchase a machine that can exceed your demand by about 15%. That is, if you own a restaurant and expect 200 customers per day, buy a machine with a capacity of more than 345 lb. per day.

Growing Demand

Let’s face it, you’re probably looking to grow your business. If this is the case, we recommend that you plan for more capacity than you currently require. When you buy the next size up, you’re be prepared for unforeseen spikes in demand. Plus, you don’t have to buy a bigger ice machine down the road.

Ventilation Considerations

Your machine needs to breathe. For air-cooled machines, the environment surrounding the machine should allow for good ventilation to ensure effective and efficient operation. We recommend that you avoid operating your machine in closets/small rooms.

What Do I Want?

It depends. Are you starting up a new restaurant? We recommend an ice maker, ice bin, dispenser, and accessories (like water filters). Replacing an existing unit? Then browse our inventory to find the ice maker or dispenser that can match your needs.

Do I Need A Dispenser?

Do you serve drinks? Depending on your situation, dispensers are needed to store and serve your ice. An ice dispenser is often a good purchase when you plan to serve beverages. Whether you’re a cafe that uses 6 oz. of ice per cup, or a hospital that uses 10 lbs. per patient, a dispenser can help.

Filtration

Not only do customers want clean and good-tasting ice, so does your machine. Filtered water improves the performance of your machine and ensures efficient ice production. We recommend purchasing a water filter with your next ice machine, or buying one to improve an existing unit.

Do I Need an Ice Bin?

There’s commonly confusion about what to get when buying an ice machine. The bin, which is used to store the ice that a machine produces, is often a necessity. We sell both. With an ice bin, you have the capability to store produced ice all day. Make sure to buy a bin that matches the capacity of your chosen ice machine.

More Questions? Talk to our ice maker experts