Why Ice Machines Matter More in Phoenix
Operating a restaurant in Phoenix means dealing with temperatures that regularly exceed 110°F during summer months. Your customers expect ice-cold drinks, and your kitchen needs reliable ice production to keep ingredients fresh and beverages chilled. A quality commercial ice machine isn't just equipment—it's essential to your Arizona restaurant's success.
At EEL Economic Equipment Locators, we understand the unique demands of Phoenix's climate on commercial refrigeration equipment. That's why we carefully select and test every ice machine in our inventory to ensure it can handle the heat while delivering consistent ice production for your business.
Arizona Climate Consideration
Ice machines work harder in hot environments. A unit rated for 500 lbs/day in a 70°F room may only produce 400 lbs in a 90°F kitchen. We recommend sizing up 20-30% for Phoenix installations to ensure you never run short during peak summer months.
Types of Commercial Ice Machines
Modular Ice Machines
Modular ice machines are the workhorses of high-volume restaurants. Available in 22", 30", and 48" widths, these units sit on top of a separate ice bin, dispenser, or soda fountain. They're ideal for busy Phoenix restaurants that need serious ice production.
- Production: 250 to 1,000+ lbs per day
- Best for: Full-service restaurants, bars, hotels
- Brands we carry: Manitowoc, Hoshizaki, Ice-O-Matic, Scotsman
Undercounter Ice Machines
Self-contained units that combine the ice maker and storage bin in one compact package. Perfect for smaller establishments or as a secondary ice source for service stations.
- Production: 50 to 350 lbs per day
- Best for: Cafes, small bars, food trucks, office break rooms
- Space-saving: Fits under standard 40" counters
Countertop Ice Dispensers
Compact units that dispense ice (and often water) on demand. Common in healthcare facilities, hotels, and self-service areas where customers need easy access to ice.
- Production: Up to 400 lbs per day
- Ice type: Usually nugget or pellet ice
- Best for: Healthcare, hotels, convenience stores
Ice Machine Sizing Guide for Phoenix Restaurants
How much ice does your Phoenix restaurant need? Use this guide as a starting point, then add 20-30% for Arizona's hot climate:
| Establishment Type | Ice per Person/Day | Example (100 customers) |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Restaurant | 1.5 lbs | 150 lbs + 30% = 195 lbs |
| Fast Food / Quick Service | 0.5 lbs | 50 lbs + 30% = 65 lbs |
| Bar / Cocktail Lounge | 3 lbs | 300 lbs + 30% = 390 lbs |
| Hotel (per room) | 5 lbs | 500 lbs + 30% = 650 lbs |
| Healthcare Facility | 10 lbs per bed | 1,000 lbs + 30% = 1,300 lbs |
| Salad Bar / Buffet | 40 lbs per cubic ft | Varies by display size |
* The 30% increase accounts for Arizona's extreme summer temperatures, which reduce ice machine efficiency and increase customer demand for cold beverages.
Ice Types: Choosing the Right Shape
Full Cube Ice
Classic square cubes that melt slowly and look great in drinks.
Best for: Upscale restaurants, cocktail bars, catering
Half Cube Ice
Smaller cubes that cool drinks faster and displace more liquid.
Best for: Fast food, soft drinks, quick service
Nugget / Pellet Ice
Soft, chewable ice that's popular with customers. Also called "Sonic ice."
Best for: Healthcare, convenience stores, blended drinks
Flake Ice
Soft, moldable ice ideal for food displays and seafood presentation.
Best for: Seafood markets, produce displays, salad bars
Air-Cooled vs. Water-Cooled in Arizona
Choosing between air-cooled and water-cooled ice machines is especially important in Phoenix's climate:
Air-Cooled
- Pros: Lower water bills, easier installation, more common
- Cons: Less efficient in hot kitchens, needs good ventilation
- Arizona tip: Works well in air-conditioned spaces; struggles in hot back-of-house areas
Water-Cooled
- Pros: Consistent performance in hot environments, quieter operation
- Cons: Higher water usage, requires drain connection
- Arizona tip: Better choice for non-air-conditioned spaces or high-heat kitchens
Top Ice Machine Brands We Carry
Manitowoc
Known for energy efficiency and reliable ice production. Their Indigo series offers smart diagnostics.
Hoshizaki
Japanese engineering with stainless steel evaporators. Excellent for high-volume production.
Scotsman
Pioneers of nugget ice. Great for healthcare and specialty applications.
Ice-O-Matic
Affordable and dependable. Popular choice for budget-conscious restaurant owners.
Ice Machine Maintenance Tips for Arizona
Phoenix's hard water and dusty environment require extra attention to ice machine maintenance:
- Clean condenser coils monthly – Dust buildup reduces efficiency significantly in Arizona's dry climate
- Install a water filter – Phoenix water is notoriously hard; a filter prevents scale buildup and extends machine life
- Schedule professional cleaning every 6 months – More frequently than manufacturer recommendations due to local water quality
- Check air filters weekly – Desert dust clogs filters faster than in other climates
- Monitor ice production – A drop in output often indicates the need for cleaning or service
Serving the Phoenix Metro Area
We deliver commercial ice machines throughout the greater Phoenix metropolitan area:
Why Buy a Used Ice Machine from EEL?
Thoroughly Tested
Every ice machine is run through a complete production cycle before it hits our floor. We verify ice quality, production rates, and proper operation.
60-Day Warranty
All our ice machines come with a 60-day limited warranty. If something goes wrong, we'll make it right.
Expert Guidance
Our founder has 25+ years in Arizona's restaurant industry. We'll help you choose the right size and type for your specific needs.
Save 50-70%
A new commercial ice machine can cost $3,000-$10,000+. Our quality used units deliver the same performance at a fraction of the price.