Ice machines and ice makers come in a broad range of types, selections, purposes, and capacities. It is important to do a thorough evaluation in order to match your business’ needs with the right ice machine or ice maker. An Ice Machine is an essential part to any food service business, c-store, super market, break room, hotel and more. This webpage provides you with information and a few hints to help you choose the correct ice machine to fit your ice production needs. Use the links and information below to help you determine and find the right ice machine or ice maker.
Determining your ice production needs correctly will depend on the size or your restaurant, ambient air, water temperature and other things.
The chart below will serve as a rule of thumb for determining what capacity to look for in an ice maker.
Business Type |
Typical Ice Requirements |
Special Note |
Restaurant |
1.5 lbs. of ice per customer |
Salad Bar? Add 15 lbs. per square foot |
Restaurant serving Alcohol |
2.5 lbs. of ice per customer |
|
Bar/Lounge |
3 lbs. of ice per customer |
|
Cafeteria |
1 lb. of ice per customer |
|
Fast Food/ Convenience Store |
1 lb. of ice per 32 oz. of drinks served daily |
Cold Plate? Add 50% more ice daily |
Healthcare |
10 lbs. of ice per patient |
|
Hotel |
5 lbs. of ice per room |
Source: Ace Mart Restaurant Supply Co |