The Uses of Ice Machine

Operators of ice machine who want to eliminate the need to manually load an ice and beverage dispenser have two ways to automatically load the dispenser with ice. An ice machine can be mounted on top of most countertop ice and beverage dispensers, or the operator can select an ice machine with technology that will transport ice to a countertop or under counter dispenser up to 75 feet away.

Automatic load Ice Machine and Manual load Ice Machine

While automatically loaded ice and beverage dispensers have become increasingly popular with many operators, there can be valid reasons for manually loading the dispenser. With manual load applications, however, the dispenser type should be evaluated carefully to maintain efficiency and safety. Operators who want a manual load beverage dispenser perhaps because they already have an ice machine in the back room or because high traffic during lunch or dinner exceeds the dispenser capacity should investigate ice and beverage dispensers that sit in the counter rather than on it and store ice below the counter rather than above it.

In some cases it may be preferable to use a separate mechanical cooling system to chill the syrup and water lines. When using a separate cooling system, no ice from the dispenser storage area is needed to chill the beverage lines, so more beverages can be served from the same dispenser. Mechanical cooling systems that accommodate one or multiple dispensers are available from a number of manufacturers. The primary disadvantages are cost and physical size, but in high volume operations, these systems provide a viable alternative to using an integral beverage cooling system.

Dispensed beverages generally return a 60 percent profit margin double that of cans or bottles. Because of this, most operators want the beverage center to be highly visible and easily accessible to promote the sales of dispensed beverages. When considering the type of ice and beverage dispenser to select, consider carefully where it will be located and whether the size of the unit will compromise the aesthetic appearance of the facility and/or restrict visibility. Always remember that a countertop ice and beverage dispenser with a top mounted ice maker can result in a height of 73" or more. When placed on a standard 36" counter the unit towers 9 feet above the floor.

It may seem easier to supply all your ice from one large machine and bin, but in the end this is usually inefficient. With only one large machine, your staff will constantly be running back and forth from the ice bin to soda machines, under bar ice chests, and salad bar costing you time and also increasing chances of cross-contamination. Instead, consider using several smaller machines, one on top of the soda dispenser, a small underbars unit, and a small ice machine maker with a bin near your salad bar, for example. This way your staff will always have ice when and where they need it, while also keeping the ice safe and sanitary.

When selecting an ice machine, the most important thing to keep in mind aside from production rate is the shape of the ice that the machine makes. Each type of ice has its own benefits and drawbacks.