7 Basics of Buying an Ice Machine
In previous weeks, we’ve discussed the different types of condensing units and ice available, as well as how much ice you’ll need for your particular business. This week we wrap things up by answering 7 questions regarding ice machines.
Brands
First of all, what brand of ice maker is best? At Prima Supply we sell four different brands: Hoshizaki, Manitowoc, Scotsman, and Ice-O-Matic. Hoshizaki is the world’s largest manufacturer of ice equipment and is known for making consistent, dependable products. Manitowoc has won numerous awards for their well-made products, including Energy Star Partner of the Year and the Kitchen Innovation Award. Scotsman produces some of the best flakers in the business. And, finally, Ice-O-Matic produces cost-effective, durable ice machines that feature AgIon antimicrobial technology, designed to eliminate unwanted bacteria for a cleaner, better tasting ice.
Power Source
Second, do ice machines require a special power source? It depends on how the ice machine is electrically configured. If an ice machine is configured to a 115/60/1 setting, then it should work with a standard three-pronged outlet. But if an ice machine configured to a 230/50/1 or a 208~230/60/1 setting, then it will need a special plug and outlet. Make sure you thoroughly read the spec sheet on your ice machine to determine the electrical configuration. Also, consult an electrician to make sure your business is prepared for the machine before it arrives.
Environmentally Friendly
Third, are there environmentally friendly and energy efficient ice machines? Yes, there are. Most Energy Star compliant ice machines are going to be either air-cooled or remote-cooled. Water-cooled ice machines are non-compliant because they consume so much energy.
Water Filter
Fourth, is a water filter really necessary? Yes, it’s possible to run an ice machine without a water filter. Having a water filter, though, will remove bad tastes, odors, and sediments from the water, which results in having a cleaner, purer ice cube. If you do attach a water filter to your ice machine, it’s important to regularly change the filter. Water filters are not designed to last forever, and having an old filter will actually do more harm than good. Ice-O-Matic, in fact, has a program that if you change the water filter every 6 months, they will cover the parts and labor on the evaporator for 7 years.
Warranty
Fifth, what is the warranty on ice machines? Nearly all ice machine manufacturers have the same warranty. They will usually cover parts and labor for 3 years on the entire machine, and they will cover parts on the compressor and evaporator for 5 years, with some manufacturers even covering labor for those 5 years. As mentioned earlier, Ice-O-Matic has a special program that will cover parts and labor on the evaporator for seven years if the water filter is changed every 6 months. Ice-O-Matic, therefore, has one of the best warranty coverages of any ice machine manufacturer.
Life Expectancy
Sixth, how long will an ice maker last? It’s hard to say for certain what the life expectancy of an ice machine will be. Factors such as how much it’s used and how well it’s maintained affect how long a machine lasts. Seldom, though, will an ice machine last longer than 10 years if it is used everyday. A safe estimate would be roughly 4 to 5 years, or within the warranty of the machine. But beyond the warranty there is no guarantee. To extend the life of your ice machine, make sure you perform routine maintenance and cleaning. It’s not uncommon for a machine to die early as a result of poor maintenance.
Return Policy
Seventh, if I don’t like the ice machine I buy from Prima, can I return it? At Prima Supply, we know that returns can be a difficult process. That’s why we’ve developed a hassle-free return policy to better serve our customers. Most of our products can be returned in a like-new condition for store credit, which is good for any future transaction. Also, unlike other competitors, we don’t charge a restocking or handling fee to make the return process as smooth as possible.
As this blog series comes to a conclusion, we hope that you’ve been enlightened about ice machines. If you still have any questions, you can always contact our sales team who are more than happy to help you out in any way possible.
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It wobbles, no matter what I do.
Ordered this table last week for home use and it arrived promptly via UPS. Setup was a breeze after watching the tutorial video and I discovered a trick to setting up the bottom shelf on your own; with the table upside down, place a box on the underside of the tabletop and then slide the bottom shelf onto the legs so it lies flat against the box. This will level the bottom shelf and hold it in place so you can tighten the fasteners on each leg.
The table itself is moderately sturdy and the 16 gauge steel thick enough to take some abuse. The table is a bit wobbly since there is no back brace and the legs are not welded but this can be remedied by placing the table in a corner. I arranged my table in the middle of my kitchen with the side flush against the wall and the corner resting snugly where my window frame meets it.
Very fast shipment and the table came well packaged, but unfortunately UPS mishandled it a bit so there are minor dents on the sides. However, this does not detract from the rating since it is not Prima's fault. I would suggest, however, that freight shipment be an option for all products if this is possible. I would be willing to pay more if I knew it would protect my investment.
Sturdy, easy to install. 36" length only allows for attachment to one stud. Get yourself (3) 3/16 x 2" toggle bolts. Fast shipping, great price, will shop here again.