Your Ultimate Guide to Commercial Ice Machines for Schools and Universities

Educational institutions like schools and universities use commercial ice machines in cafeterias and on-campus eateries. Students want cold beverages at lunch and, on university campuses, throughout the rest of the day too. A top-rated commercial ice machine is the best way to provide hundreds of pounds of ice for students during the busy lunch hour. Our guide will help you choose the best ice maker for your school or university.

If you need help choosing a commercial ice maker for your school cafeteria or dining hall, call us today!

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A Guide to commercial kitchen ice machines

Types of Commercial Ice Maker Machines for Schools and Universities

There are many different models of ice machines, both large and small. Some are designed for serving staff. Others are specifically for self-service. Here are some of the most popular models of ice machines for schools and universities:

  • Modular Ice Machines

    Modular Ice Machines

    Modular ice makers are the most popular type of commercial ice machine because they offer the most flexibility for users. These machines only produce ice. They can be installed on any compatible ice bin of your choosing. These machines come in a large range of sizes, from 500 – 1800 lbs. of ice a day.

    Learn More About Modular Ice Machines

  • Stackable Ice Machines

    Stackable Ice Machines

    These are a style of modular ice machine that allows you to install multiple units on top of a single ice bin. Stack 2-3 units on top of one another to either double or triple your total ice production. These machines also range from 500 –1800 lbs per machine.

    Learn More About Stackable Ice Machines

  • Undercounter Ice Machines

    Undercounter Ice Machines

    This style of ice machine is designed to fit under a countertop or bar top. While designed for bars, they have become very popular in coffee shops where baristas need quick access to serve long lines of customers quickly. Perfect for university cafes!

    Learn More About Undercounter Ice Makers

  • Commercial ice Dispenser

    Ice Dispensers

    Ice dispensers drop ice directly into drinkware or ice buckets at the touch of a button or lever. Some dispensers, like hotel dispensers, are standup units. Others are designed to be installed on top of a counter. These are best for self-serve stations.

    Learn More About Commercial Ice Dispensers

  • Countertop Dispenser

    Countertop Ice Makers

    Thee ice machines can safely sit on top of a counter or bar top. They are designed for self-serve areas but are also a great option for faculty break rooms. Countertop ice machines ice directly into drinkware by pressing a button or lever. Some are even hands-free.

    Learn More About Countertop Ice Makers

Types of Ice Cubes

There are many ice cube shapes on the market, but they are not designed just for looks. Ice cubes are designed to be functional as well. Here are some of the most popular cubes for schools and universities:

Commercial Ice Making Machines

Condenser Types for Commercial Kitchen Ice Machines

Your ice machine's condenser is responsible for cooling down refrigerant that is used to produce a batch of ice. There are three common types of cooling systems you'll find on ice machines:

Air Cooled Ice Machines

Air cooled ice machines are the most popular choice for ice machine owners. These systems are simple in design and cost-effective. A fan blows ambient air onto the condenser coils. This assists in cooling the refrigerant and works to move hot air out of the system and into the surrounding environment.

View Our Air Cooled Ice Machines

Installation Requirements for Commercial Ice Machines on School Campuses

Commercial Kitchen Ice Makers for University Dining Services

We’ve serviced over 10,000 ice machines across the country. No matter the challenge, we know exactly how to keep your hotel ice machine running smoothly. Our pre-installation checklist shows you what you need to provide to install an ice machine at your construction facility. If you have a challenging environment, give us a call and we'll help you find a solution.

Pre-Installation Checklist

Cleaning and Sanitation for Your School's Ice Maker

Ice machines need regular cleaning to reduce mold, slime, and pathogens that can make people sick. Professional cleanings can also rid your machine of harmful scale that forms over time.

  • School Ice Machine

    Professional Cleaning

    You should schedule a qualified ice machine technician to come out to clean your machine every six months. This will reduce dirt, mold, and germs that may have entered your ice machine. In addition, your staff should perform daily cleaning on the machine's exterior.

    See Our Ice Machine Cleaning Schedule

  • Commercial Kitchen Ice Machines for Cafeteria

    Mold and Slime

    Mold and slime grow in damp, dark environments and feed off of organic material in the air. Your ice machine can provide the perfect home for mold and slime if your employees don't keep up with regular cleaning. Check your machine for growths daily and clean as needed.

    How to Clean Your Ice Machine of Slime and Mold

  • Kitchen Ice Machines for School Dining Services

    Ice Bin Cleaning

    Your ice bin is where you store your ice, so you want to make sure it's free of germs and mold. Employees should always use an ice scoop to grab ice. If a health inspector notices considerable mold and slime, they will write a damaging violation.

    Simple Steps for Cleaning Your Commercial Ice Bin

The Best Way to Get a High-Quality Commercial Ice Machine for Your School or University

It’s not easy to keep ice machines at schools and universities sanitary and high-performing, but we’re here to help! An Easy Ice subscription doesn't just come with the best commercial ice equipment from Hoshizaki and Manitowoc. We also include preventive maintenance, professional cleaning, and repairs at no extra cost. If you ever have a problem with your equipment, we maintain a 24-hour ice machine service line you can call anytime. If your ice machine goes down for extended repairs, we'll provide you with free replacement ice until the machine is fixed.

The Easy Ice team is dedicated to providing your students and faculty with plenty of ice to get them through long days of classes. With our commercial ice machine subscription, you'll never have to worry about your school's ice supply.


Want to be sure you're serving clean, safe ice to students and staff? Want to save money and take the hassle out of keeping ice machines on campus?

Let our subscription do it all.

Quality Industrial Ice Cube Makers for Convention Centers