Perfect Guide to Sonic Ice Makers |Protable Ice Machines | Ice Maker Pros
Sonic ice makers are portable appliances, which are used to produce small nuggets rather than ice cubes. There are several types of sonic ice makers in the market. For an ice making to be classified as a sonic ice maker, it must have the ability to produce one tray of ice in less than five minutes. It should similarly be completely portable, meaning that it doesn’t need an out-and-out water line. Generally, sonic ice makers have a plug or drain line at the bottom or on the side to help drain off excess water from the system.
Sonic ice makers have gained popularity due to the fact that they produce cube-sized ice that can be easily blended or chewed. This makes it perfect for individuals who prefer snacking on ice. Others prefer the appliances before the ice produced cools drinks evenly. Due to the ease of blending, the ice is mostly used in the preparation of iced coffee.
How to Use a Sonic Ice Maker
Sonic ice machines are easy to use because they have a simple control console. Anyone can operate the appliances provided that there is a power source. You must first ensure that it is emptied of ice. In case you have no water line, you should make sure that there is water in the reservoir. Always ensure that you use clean water since it determines the quality of ice that you ultimately end up with. The door should be properly secured to guarantee optimal ice production.
When a sonic ice maker is in use, water often runs through the system via a metal cylinder before being cooled off by the appliance’s refrigeration system. The refrigeration system has a low temperature, something that forces the water to start freezing in small sheets. These sheets often protrude from the cylinder’s sides. During this time, an augur often turns, scraping the cylinder’s interior walls. In the process, the ice flakes formed are pushed over to the upper part of the auger. The flakes are often pushed through a tube, which compacts them further into a singular piece that naturally breaks off into smaller pieces.
Buying a Sonic Ice Maker
The price of these appliances depends on the size and capacity. Averagely, new models retail at around 200 dollars. However, such low-end models do not come with freezers. This means that they are not suitable for commercial use. High-end sonic ice makers retail at around 500 dollars and need waterline and other additional features. The appliances give you the flexibility of using bottled water. This way, you stand to get better quality ice.
There are various sonic ice makers in the market. However, you should first identify a model that perfectly suits your needs. More often than less, many people lose focus because they get overwhelmed by the inherent features of each model. This explains why you should come up with a list stipulating features that you want your sonic ice maker to have. Keep in mind that certain models are more suitable for commercial purposes rather than residential use. Hoshizaki has cut a niche for itself by producing exceptional sonic ice makers. The company’s most renowned product is Hoshizaki AM50BAE Under Counter Ice Machine.
Hoshizaki AM50BAE – Under Counter Ice Machine
This sonic ice maker has a daily production capacity of 55 pounds. It produces a unique type of sonic ice known as top hat. This ice variety generally melts at a slower rate and is less likely to water down the quality and taste of the beverage that you intend to serve your guests. The appliance can be directly connected to the water line, which means that you can get an endless supply of ice during peak business hours.
Hoshizaki AM50BAE under counter ice machine weighs 115 lbs. Its height is 31- 1/2” while its width is 14- 7/8”. It is not Energy Star Qualified, which means that you might be forced to incur high utility bills in case you buy it. It requires a single phase amperage of 15 amperes. The machine’s operating limits are temperature ranges of between 45 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Water pressure of between 7 to 113 psig, and a voltage range of between 104 to 127 Volts.
This sonic ice machine is an impeccable addition to hotel suits, office break rooms, and even restaurant kitchens. It features a groundbreaking airflow system, which negates the need for rear and side clearance. It is comparatively shorter than other ice machines, and can thus be used by people who have physical disabilities. It produces clean ice, and can be easily maintained. This enhances its longevity. The manufacturer offers a two-year parts and labor warranty period on the entire period.
This appliance produces ice at a faster rate than other models within its price range. Excess ice and water can similarly be drained from the system via a drain line, which is attachable to the pump. What’s more, impurities can easily be removed from the water, meaning that you are supplied with pristine and safe ice.
Hoshizaki AM-50BAE sonic ice makers come with interchangeable doors, which have hinges on the right. This makes the ice maker easy to open. The manufacturer provides a manual that stipulates how the side of the door opening can be changed. Besides this, there is an additional draining unit at the back from where excess water can drain from the system.
Possible Drawbacks
The appliance is quite noisy and larger than most of the other sonic ice makers in the market. Being an under counter ice machine, it cannot fit into tight spaces. Actually, it needs to be mounted together with all its accompaniments such as water lines and drains. When you buy it, you must also create space for the fan so that the appliance receives enough cold air to prevent overheating. Unlike other models, it is also impossible to add a customer door.
If sonic ice is your favorite ice type, there is need for you to choose an appliance that is designed to offer you high quality ice. Luckily, newer sonic machines are highly automated and have smart technology that allows high efficiency and portability.