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Commercial Ice machines Buying Guide
Choosing the right commercial ice machine is about more than simply selecting the highest production capacity. Daily ice requirements, storage capacity, ice type, available installation space and business type all play an important role in selecting the right machine.
Whether you're operating a café, restaurant, pub, club, hotel, bar, healthcare facility or commercial kitchen, this guide explains the key differences between commercial ice machines and helps you choose the most suitable model for your business.
Ice Machine Production Guide
Understanding daily ice production is the first step in selecting the correct machine. Commercial ice machines are rated by the amount of ice they can produce in a 24-hour period under ideal operating conditions.
Production capacity should always exceed your busiest trading day rather than your average daily usage.
Choosing the Right Production Capacity
Commercial ice machines are available in a wide range of capacities to suit different business types.
30–50kg Ice Machines
Ideal for: Small cafés • Coffee shops • Offices • Convenience stores
Perfect where ice demand is relatively low and storage requirements are minimal.
60–100kg Ice Machines
Ideal for: Cafés • Restaurants • Small bars • Bakeries
A popular choice for businesses requiring reliable ice production throughout the day.
100–150kg Ice Machines
Ideal for: Busy restaurants • Hotels • Pubs • Clubs
Provides consistent production during busy service periods.
200kg+ Ice Machines
Ideal for: Large venues • Function centres • Hospitals • Catering facilities
Designed for businesses with continuous high-volume ice demand.
Ice Types Explained
Different applications require different styles of ice. Choosing the correct ice type improves drink presentation, food preservation and operational efficiency.
Full Cube Ice
Best for: Cocktails • Spirits • Premium beverages
Large cubes melt slowly, making them ideal for customer-facing beverage service.
Half Cube Ice
Best for: Soft drinks • Restaurants • General hospitality
One of the most versatile ice types available.
Bullet Ice
Best for: Quick beverage cooling • Offices • Small businesses
Common in compact commercial ice machines.
Flake Ice
Best for: Seafood • Food displays • Medical applications
Excellent for food presentation and rapid cooling.
Nugget Ice
Best for: Healthcare • Smoothies • Self-service drinks
Soft, chewable ice with excellent cooling performance.
Installation & Ventilation Requirements
Correct installation is essential for reliable ice production and long equipment life.
Commercial ice machines require:
- Cold water supply
- Suitable drainage
- Dedicated electrical outlet
- Level installation surface
- Adequate ventilation
Installing a quality water filter is strongly recommended to improve ice quality and reduce scale build-up.
Commercial ice machines generate heat during normal operation and require sufficient airflow around the refrigeration system.
General recommendations include: 20mm clearance on both sides • 20mm above the cabinet • 100mm behind the machine • Keep ventilation grilles unobstructed.
Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions for your specific model.
Features Worth Considering
When comparing commercial ice machines, look for features that improve reliability, hygiene and ease of operation.
Look for: Stainless steel construction • Food-grade storage bin • Automatic cleaning cycle • Digital controls • Adjustable ice thickness • Water shortage protection • Full bin automatic shut-off • Removable air filters • Commercial-grade compressor • Easy-access service panels
CKS Pro Tip: If your business regularly runs out of ice during peak trading periods, choosing the next production size up is often more cost-effective than purchasing a second machine later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size commercial ice machine do I need?
Choose a machine capable of producing more ice than your busiest day's expected usage, allowing additional capacity during peak periods.
Do I need a water filter?
Yes. A quality water filter helps improve ice clarity, reduces mineral build-up and can extend the life of the machine.
How often should I clean my ice machine?
Most commercial ice machines should be cleaned and sanitised regularly in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Cleaning frequency depends on water quality and daily usage.
Can I install an ice machine under a bench?
Many compact commercial ice machines are specifically designed for underbench installation, provided the recommended ventilation clearances are maintained.
Does ambient temperature affect ice production?
Yes. Higher room temperatures and warmer incoming water can reduce daily ice production compared to laboratory test conditions.
Should I choose an air-cooled or water-cooled ice machine?
Air-cooled machines are the most common choice for hospitality businesses due to their lower water consumption, lower operating costs and simpler installation.
Need Help Choosing?
If you're unsure which commercial ice machine is best suited to your business, our team can help.
Browse our range of commercial ice machines or contact CKS for personalised advice on selecting the right ice machine based on your daily production requirements, available space and business needs.
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