Short answer
Size an ice machine by daily production, stated in pounds or kilograms per 24 hours, to cover your busiest day with a margin. Add up the ice used for drinks, food display and any bagged or blended use, then allow extra for hot weather, because real output falls in warm rooms and with warm water. The bin must also hold your peak-hour demand.
Production ratings are measured at standard test conditions. Manufacturers publish charts showing lower output at higher air and water temperatures, so read the chart for the conditions in your kitchen, especially if the machine sits near cooking equipment.
Production and storage are separate numbers. A modular ice machine sits on a separate bin, so you can pair a head with a bin sized for your rush, while undercounter units combine both in one cabinet with a smaller bin.
Choose the ice type for the use: full and half cubes for drinks, nugget for chewable drink ice, and flake for food display.
Updated · By Norpex