In 2025, commercial ice makers are no longer one-size-fits-all machines. As businesses across hospitality, healthcare, retail, and foodservice evolve, so do their ice production needs. From shape and volume to installation type and efficiency, choosing the right commercial ice maker has become more complex—but also more important than ever.

This guide will walk you through how to evaluate the various types of commercial ice makers, and how professional manufacturers like HISAKAGE REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT CO., LTD. can help you find the perfect solution tailored to your business.

1. Understand Your Ice Demand

Start by estimating how much ice your business needs per day. Consider:

• Peak usage hours

• Storage needs

• Number of customers served daily

For example:

• A small café might need 100–200 lbs/day

• A full-service restaurant may require 500+ lbs/day

• A hotel or event venue could exceed 1,000 lbs/day

HISAKAGE REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT CO., LTD. offers a full range of commercial ice makers that scale from compact undercounter models to high-volume modular units, ensuring every business size is covered.

2. Know the Main Types of Commercial Ice Makers

Understanding the core machine types helps you choose based on space, layout, and service model:

Modular Ice Makers

• High production capacity

• Requires separate storage bin

• Ideal for large restaurants, hotels, and hospitals

Undercounter Ice Makers

• Compact, all-in-one design

• Fits beneath counters

• Great for bars, cafés, or small foodservice setups

Countertop Ice & Water Dispensers

• Compact, hygienic, self-service

• Perfect for healthcare facilities or office breakrooms

Combination Ice & Water Units

• Dispense both water and chewable nugget ice

• Ideal for customer-facing environments and healthcare use

HISAKAGE’s product line includes all of the above, built with attention to efficiency, sanitation, and long-lasting performance.

3. Select the Right Ice Type for Your Application

Ice isn’t just ice—each type has a purpose:

• Cube Ice: Hard and slow-melting; ideal for soft drinks and cocktails

• Flake Ice: Soft and moldable; used for food displays and medical cooling

• Nugget Ice: Chewable and absorbent; popular in healthcare and casual beverages

• Gourmet Ice: Crystal-clear, slow-melting; premium for upscale bars

HISAKAGE specializes in precision-engineered ice makers that produce various ice shapes with consistent quality, ensuring the right ice texture and clarity for your business needs.

4. Consider Installation Space and Utility Access

Check the available space for the ice maker, including:

• Width and depth of installation area

• Ventilation clearance

• Proximity to water and drainage lines

• Electrical access

HISAKAGE engineers its units with flexible dimensions and user-friendly installation options—ideal for both tight spaces and large-scale kitchen layouts.

5. Factor in Energy Efficiency and Sanitation

In 2025, energy efficiency and hygiene are no longer optional—they’re expected:

• Look for energy-saving compressors and eco-friendly refrigerants

• Choose models with automatic cleaning cycles and anti-bacterial components

• Ensure NSF, CE, or similar safety certifications are met

HISAKAGE REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT CO., LTD. builds all machines with energy efficiency, hygiene, and reliability in mind, backed by years of experience in refrigeration innovation.

6. Partner With a Trusted Manufacturer

Finally, the reliability of your ice maker starts with the manufacturer behind it.

HISAKAGE REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT CO., LTD. is a professional Chinese manufacturer focused on commercial refrigeration equipment, including:

• Commercial ice makers

• Refrigerators and freezers

• Display cabinets and coolers

With a commitment to precision manufacturing, durability, and customer-focused design, HISAKAGE serves businesses across hospitality, retail, and healthcare sectors. The company also supports OEM and custom solutions, helping distributors and brand owners expand their product lines with confidence.

Conclusion

Choosing the right commercial ice maker in 2025 means balancing output, ice type, design, and operational efficiency. By understanding your business’s specific needs and working with a reputable manufacturer like HISAKAGE REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT CO., LTD., you can ensure a long-lasting, high-performing ice solution that keeps your operations cool—and your customers satisfied.