Top-10 Commercial Ice Machines
Loved in the USA

The Hoshizaki DCM-271BAH-OS ice and water dispenser stands out for its impressive ice production capacity of 257 pounds per day, making it suitable for businesses with high ice demands. Its cubelet ice type is ideal for cold drinks, offering a pleasant texture, which could enhance customer satisfaction. The hands-free dispenser feature promotes hygiene, a crucial aspect in commercial settings, especially in areas like healthcare or food service. Thanks to its built-in storage bin, the machine provides convenient access while saving space compared to units requiring separate storage solutions.

Compact in size, the machine's dimensions (24.25"D x 16.06"W x 31.75"H) can fit into various spaces, making it versatile for different installations, whether countertop or freestanding. Its stainless steel build promises durability, ensuring it withstands regular use and maintains a clean appearance over time. With an air-cooled mechanism, it may be easier to maintain than water-cooled alternatives, though it's essential to ensure proper ventilation around the machine.

Energy efficiency appears moderate with a 6.9 kWh consumption, which may be acceptable for commercial settings but could be worth considering for businesses focused on reducing energy costs. This model doesn’t require batteries and operates at 127 volts, aligning with standard commercial electrical setups. Maintenance demands should be reviewed, as hands-free features can sometimes require regular cleaning to avoid blockages or mechanical issues. This machine is a solid choice for businesses in need of efficient ice production and space-saving features, but buyers should consider their specific energy efficiency needs and space constraints.

The Hoshizaki KM-231BAJ Crescent Cuber Ice Maker is designed for commercial use, particularly suitable for small bars, hotel lobbies, and office break rooms. It can produce approximately 213 lbs of crescent-shaped ice daily and has a built-in storage bin that holds up to 80 lbs of ice. This makes it a good fit for environments with moderate ice demand.

The machine is air-cooled and designed for undercounter installation, making it space-efficient and convenient for various setups. The CycleSaver design helps improve efficiency by reducing the number of cycles required to produce ice, and the EverCheck alert system simplifies maintenance by providing alerts for potential issues.

With a wattage of 8.4 kWh and a voltage requirement of 115v/60/1, it is relatively energy-efficient for its capacity. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the front in, front out airflow design allows for flexible installation.

The Hoshizaki C-80BAJ is a well-built undercounter ice machine that is especially suitable for smaller commercial environments like cafes, bars, or restaurants that need a reliable supply of ice. It produces up to 80 pounds of nugget-style ice each day, which is great for drinks and food presentations. The machine has a decent storage capacity of 22 pounds, ensuring you have a good supply on hand without needing extensive space. Its compact design, measuring 14-7/8 inches wide and under 34 inches tall, makes it an excellent choice for areas with limited space.

In terms of energy efficiency, it operates using 460 watts, which is relatively moderate for an ice machine of this capacity, and could be a consideration for those concerned about electricity costs. However, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to keep the ice machine running smoothly, as with any equipment that produces food-related items. The stainless steel construction is a plus, as it’s durable and easy to maintain.

The C-80BAJ has many strengths, including its compact design and efficient ice production, but there are a couple of drawbacks to keep in mind. The storage capacity might feel a bit limiting for larger establishments that require a significant amount of ice. Additionally, being an undercounter model, it may not be suitable for businesses that need a high volume of ice output continuously throughout the day without frequent refills.