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ICE MACHINES
Canadians love ice. According to Restaurants Canada, approximately 3 billion beverages
requiring ice were consumed by Canadians pre-pandemic. With a surge in QSRs during the
pandemic, that has likely increased. With that in mind, all foodservice establishments need
ice. From self-service drink fountains to back of house water baths and cooling techniques to
institutional needs such as chewable ice and grocery displays with flaked ice – the need for ice
in commercial foodservice is everywhere.
As with other types of commercial food equipment, there are many considerations to ensure
you buy the right machine. A restaurant running out of ice is a restauranteur’s nightmare; a
long-term care home without chewable ice is a major problem and a high-end cocktail bar
without the right ice ruins the drink. Further, not having the right type of cube for your use can
also cost a business significantly over time. We’ve broken down the key considerations and key
manufacturers in Canada. An R.E.D. Dealer can set you up for success.
What to know before you buy an ice machine
Capacity
Determining capacity is not just determining how much ice you need, but where you need it. Do
you need several smaller machines in various locations – bar, wait stations, garde manger area?
Or do you need a larger machine with insulated transport to transport and store ice in their required
areas?
Available Space
Ice machines not only require space, but a dedicated water supply and drain. Do you have
clearance for an ice machine head & bin below or do you require an undercounter unit to fit in a
space? Ensure you have area around your unit to allow the ice machine to breathe.
Type of Cube
There are many types of ice to choose from. There are a few rules of thumb but the type of cube
you need in your establishment is a very important decision. More details below.
Utilities All commercial ice machines, from the smallest units to the largest units, will require a water
supply and a drain, as well as the appropriate electrical supply.
Filtration
Health Inspectors consider ice to be food, and as such, the quality of the water is important.
Ensure you have a water filter on the intake line to meet the needs of your local municipalities’
water supply. Some manufacturers also increase the warranty period when a water filter is added
– check the manufacturers requirements.