Purchasing pros & cons

• Purchasing an ice machine requires a significant upfront investment. You'll need to pay for the equipment, installation, and any necessary infrastructure modifications.
• Once you've purchased the ice machine, you won't have ongoing monthly managed lease payments. However, you'll be responsible for maintenance, repairs, and any unexpected expenses.
• If you purchase an ice machine, you have full control over its lifespan and can use it until it becomes outdated or needs replacement. You can also customize the machine to your specific needs.

Leasing pros & cons

• Lower initial costs, as you may only need to make a down payment or pay the first month's managed lease fee.
• Regular monthly payments, which can make budgeting more predictable. It typically includes maintenance and service as part of the managed lease agreement.
• Upgrade to newer models more easily as technology advances. This can help you stay competitive and ensure you always have a reliable machine.
• Guarantees you’ll have ice, even while your machine is being serviced. Make sure to review your agreement but one major benefit of managed leasing  is knowing you won’t run out of ice - a critical component to keeping customers happy!

What should you choose for your business?

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your business's financial situation, preferences, and future plans. If you have the upfront capital and want full control over the equipment, buying may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower upfront cost, predictable monthly expenses, the ability to easily upgrade and guaranteed ice, managed leasing might be the way to go. Be sure to carefully review managed leasing agreements and consider the total cost of ownership over the equipment's expected lifespan before making a decision.

Any business that values flexibility, consistency, maintenance support, and the ability to easily upgrade to newer ice machine models as their needs change should consider managed leasing their ice machine. 

Unlocking the Cool Advantage with Ice Machine Leasing

Leasing an ice machine offers peace of mind and frees up time for you to focus on other areas of your food service business. Predictable monthly costs that include maintenance as well as emergency back up ice delivery means you never have to worry about ice again. Benefits of choosing ice maker rental (support, investment, get what you need)

To get an ice machine installed in your establishment, you'll need to be prepared to answer several installation-related questions posed by the installation technician or the equipment provider. Providing accurate and detailed information is crucial to ensure a smooth installation process. Don’t worry, they’ll help guide you through the process and ask for photos if there’s any confusion. You’ll be asked questions about the location of the machine, where the water source is located, ventilation and drainage options, as well as any local codes and regulations that need to be addressed. 

In addition to producing different sizes and shapes of ice, ice machines also come in different sizes and types. Undercounter Ice Machines are designed to fit under countertops and are commonly used in bars and restaurants where space is limited. Countertop ice machines are even more compact and can sit on a counter or tabletop. They are ideal for small bars, cafes, and offices. Modular ice machines are larger and more powerful units that can produce a higher volume of ice. They are typically used in commercial kitchens and high-demand settings. Your technician will help assess what size ice machine is right for your business.

You may need to consider a Remote Ice Machine or an Air-Cooled vs. Water-Cooled Ice Machine. Remote ice machines are designed to be connected to a remote condenser or compressor located in a separate area. These machines are preferable for locations where noise and heat are of concern. Ice machines can be categorized as air-cooled or water-cooled, depending on how they dissipate heat. Air-cooled machines use air to cool the condenser, while water-cooled machines use water. The choice between the two depends on the availability of resources and environmental considerations. Having an expert work with you ensures you’ll select the right ice machine for your specific needs.

What to consider when choosing an ice machine vendor

An ice machine requires almost daily maintenance to ensure clean and safe ice, not to mention a longer lifespan of the machine.  The ice bin needs to be sanitized regularly - daily is recommended.