The Different Types of Ice Makers
There are an assortment of ice producers and machines accessible for you to look over. Not every one of them are assembled the equivalent, so it's essential to comprehend the contrasts between them all. In case you're thinking about adding an ice producer to your home, you will probably need to pick between a compact or implicit unit.
Portable ice makers generally are compact in size, do not need a permanent water line, plug into any standard 110V outlet, and only need water poured into them to operate.
Designed to sit right on your countertop, this type of ice machine is designed to make ice very quickly, often times in as little as ten minutes. However, it is important to note that they are not freezers and, thus, will not keep the ice frozen for a long period of time. As the ice melts, the machine will continuously recycle the water to make more ice. Also, these small ice makers can only hold a tiny fraction of their full ice making capacity (up to 35 lbs. per day), so you will need to empty them frequently if you need more ice to be made.
One of the best uses for a portable ice maker is its ability to be easily moved between the kitchen, rec-room, bar, patio, poolside, etc. Their small size also makes them great companions while camping, during picnics, tailgaiting, boating, or any other outdoor application.
2. Built-In & Undercounter Ice Makers
As the name implies, Undercounter Ice Makers are designed with front ventilation to allow them to be built in or between cabinetry. Built-in ice makers should be installed by a professional plumber. They take a permanent water line, and some of them also need a drain line.
This type of ice maker is designed to store a larger capacity of ice than a portable model, as well as keep it frozen for longer periods of time. While buying a built-in ice maker may be more expensive, it will provide you with a steady supply of ice for many years to come, as well as increase the overall value of your home.
3. Modular Ice Machine
Modular ice machine heads are typically used to produce ice in much larger quantities than undercounter ice makers. This type of ice maker is the ideal solution for commercial properties, such as restaurants, bars, and hospitals.
Modular ice makers do require a separate unit for ice collection. A storage bin will help collect and keep the ice ready to serve. These are typically stackable and placed beneath the modular unit.
When your ice production requirements surpass 300 pounds per day, modular ice maker heads are the go-to choice for high quantity and dependable ice production. When selecting your modular ice maker head, keep in mind that the condenser can be cooled by either water or air, with most air-cooled units requiring less water and electricity to create ice and therefore qualifying as ENERGY STAR certified.
4. Self-Contained Ice Machine
Self–contained ice machines are designed to produce and store the ice within the same unit. While they require less physical space than modular units, self-contained ice machines have a lower production rate and storage capacity than most modular ice makers. Self-contained ice machines are the most practical option when space is a determining factor when deciding which machine to choose.
