Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions about ice, ice machines, and Crystal Ice Company. Need more help? Call (804) 673-0888 or contact us.
What are the types of ice available?
Half Cube
Perfect for blended drinks, self-serve dispensers, and quick service.
Medium Cube
Great for all beverages, bagged ice, bulk cooling, and general ice applications.
Gourmet Cube
Great for scotch glasses, fine dining, and non-blended drinks. Ideal for bar use and hospitality.
Flake Ice
Great for seafood, merchandising presentation, and product preservation. Common in food service, beverages, and health care.
Nugget Ice
Flaked ice compacted and extruded to form soft, chewable nuggets. Great for beverage dispensers, blended drinks, and food service.
How much ice do I need?
The following amounts are approximate ice usage per day:
Foodservice
- Restaurant – 1.5 lbs. per person
- Cocktail – 3 lbs. per person per seat
- Salad Bar – 40 lbs. per cubic foot
- Quick Service – 5 oz. per 7-10 oz. drink, 8 oz. per 12-16 oz. drink, 12 oz. per 18-24 oz. drink
Lodging
- Guest Ice – 5 lbs. per room
- Restaurant – 1.5 lbs. per person
- Cocktail – 3 lbs. per person per seat
- Catering – 1 lb. per person
Healthcare
- Patient Ice – 10 lbs. per bed
- Cafeteria – 1 lb. per person
Convenience Store
- Beverage – 6 oz. per 12 oz. drink, 10 oz. per 20 oz. drink
- Cold Plate – 50% more ice usage per day
- Packaged Ice – weight per bag × bags sold per day
How much space do I need for an ice machine?
Air-Cooled Models
Machine dimensions + 6″ depth behind the unit and + 6″ on each side for proper airflow.
Water-Cooled Models
Only the exact width/height/depth of the ice machine and storage bin combined.
Water Filter (Recommended)
Add additional space per the water filter specifications if one is used.
What utility connections do I need for an ice machine?
Electrical
All commercial ice machines require dedicated circuits — each machine must be on its own breaker. Up to 500 lbs/24hr production typically requires a 115V/20A dedicated wall outlet; above 500 lbs/24hr requires a 220V/30A dedicated wall outlet.
Drain
A floor drain is recommended within 6′ of the installation site. If unavailable, drains may be piped into a drain pump and waste water pumped into a nearby sink with a working drain (within 6′).
Water Supply
Most commercial ice makers require a water supply with a 3/8″ to 1/2″ diameter (depending on make/model) and a shut-off valve within 6′ of the ice maker.
What type of maintenance is required for a commercial ice maker?
De-scale Water Circuit
Every 6-12 monthsFull tear down of the water circuit, hand cleaning components, running an acid de-scaler through the water circuit and rinsing. The ice bin should be emptied and sanitized as well.
Condenser Coil Cleaning
Filters monthly, coils quarterlyOn air-cooled models, air intake filters should be cleaned or replaced monthly, and the condenser coils blown out for dust/dirt removal quarterly.
Bin Drains
Every 6-12 monthsStorage bin drains should be cleaned to ensure proper drainage of ice melt.
Crystal Ice Company Certifications
Still Have Questions?
Our team is happy to help you find the right ice solution for your business.
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