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How to choose the right model of an ice maker and what should you pay attention to?

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It is important to understand what key aspects to pay attention to when choosing such an interesting device as an ice generator. The mode of operation of the ice machine lift, the duration of operation, possible breakdowns, and other critically important nuances depend on these parameters.

Aspect of the power of the ice maker

This is a key aspect that affects energy consumption and ice production speed. This figure determines how often you will use your device. Equipment manuals and manuals usually tell you how much ice a particular model can make in 24 hours. Check out the catalog of available ice maker models at Bftech and find the perfect solution for your ice quantity needs! On average, this indicator does not exceed 10-25 kilograms of ice per day. This requires an ice maker with a capacity of 150-300 W. With this power, you will get your first batch of ice cubes in 10-15 minutes. To understand which high-performance device to buy, you need to assess your personal needs. If you don’t need a lot of ice, buy a compact and less powerful ice maker.

Type of ice generator cooling

There are two types of ice generators according to cooling systems:

  • Air cooling of the ice maker is directly related to the ambient temperature. The higher the ambient temperature, the harder it is for the ice maker to make ice. This type of cooling requires about four times less water. These units require less additional maintenance and condenser cleaning;
  • Water cooling of the ice maker: with this method of cooling, the device works stably even at high ambient temperatures and has small dimensions. The operation of these devices requires a large amount of water, which complicates their maintenance.

Not all ice has a cooling effect. Therefore, when buying a device, it is important to understand what it will be used for. Most ice makers only make one shape of ice and cannot change the shape by changing the mode of operation.

Scope of use of ice generators

It is hard to imagine going to a restaurant or bar without a drink or cocktail, especially in the summer heat. Food companies use ice makers to make ice to cool fish, meat, or other products. Industrial ice production equipment was introduced about a century ago and quickly became popular among restaurants around the world. This is not surprising. A large amount of ice is necessary not only for preparing drinks but also for storing and transporting ready meals and products in general. Modern commercial ice makers can range from a few kilograms of ice per day to hundreds of kilograms. A high-performance ice maker requires a removable container to store ice for further processing. Ice generators are often classified by the way they freeze water. The most common types of ice makers are compressor models. In this case, the ice extends above the surface of the evaporating water. Water takes a certain shape and freezes. Compressor models of ice generators are characterized by stable operation, low energy consumption, long service life, and ease of use.

There are several key reasons why you should buy an ice maker from Bftech:

  • Ability to quickly prepare high-quality cocktails;
  • Simple cooling of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, for example, at parties with a large number of guests;
  • The models of ice generators presented in the Bftech range are economical and easy to use.

What should you pay attention to when choosing an industrial ice generator?

Usually, these types of ice generators are characterized by the following key parameters: high quality of produced ice, high productive capabilities, and various cooling methods. Without knowing the main features of each type of ice maker, it is impossible to make the right choice or purchase. Let’s consider each function in more detail. First of all, you can connect the freezer to a water source through a central water supply (fully automatic unit) or by manually pouring water directly into the ice maker. 

Ice Water
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In the second case, the operation of the ice generator is significantly limited, so these devices are used mainly in small factories. Remember that ice from professional ice makers is intended for consumption only. Therefore, it is worth paying special attention to the water in the ice maker. The water must be purified and suitable for drinking. It is better to use special water softeners and special filter systems for thorough water purification from impurities. It also has a positive effect on the natural wear and tear of industrial ice production equipment and extends the life of ice makers.

Before buying an ice maker, pay attention to the type of cooling. The two most popular cooling systems for ice makers are air and water cooling. In the first case, the ice generator is cooled by mass air circulation, and in the second case, by water suction. The first method is economical but requires additional space for free airflow. Water-cooled types of ice makers take up less space but use more water. Needless to say, buying an ice maker is a much cheaper solution than buying regular supermarket chilled water that is used in production. For this reason, bars and restaurants must pay attention to their daily ice needs. 

Professional ice machines are important for the successful operation of food companies. At Bftech, you can buy ice machines, which usually produce products in the form of ice cubes, flakes, or granules. The necessary ice installation should be selected according to the direction of operation of the installation. For example, a device that makes ice cubes is suitable for a nightclub or restaurant, and a device for making ice in the form of granules is suitable for refreshing seafood because this form of ice is more practical from the point of view of cooling seafood (this form of ice provides a larger cooling area).

The principle of operation of the ice maker is similar to making ice at home. However, the functioning systems of the devices are somewhat different. Water automatically enters the chamber and freezes in the form of cubes. The pouring container is gradually heated to facilitate pouring. Then, the resulting cubes are poured into a special container (a container in which finished products are stored). When the water is full, the sensor turns the ice-making process on and off, and the ice maker goes into standby mode.

It is also worth paying attention to the material from which the ice generator is made. In this case, the most suitable option is stainless steel (the body and evaporator are made of stainless steel). In addition, the containers of modern ice generators are covered with a special antibacterial coating that ensures maximum cleanliness and safety of ice.

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