The guidelines are based on the type and size of the application. For example, an ice maker for soft drinks in a fast food restaurant might be expected to be in service seven days a week at its average level of ice production, and have to produce ice at a peak rate of 150 percent of average for two days. Under those conditions, the machine should be sized to provide 0.25 to 0.5 pounds per customer. Pick a machine with the right capacity . Oversizing of ice makers can increase energy consumption due to excessive standby losses, so pick a unit that most closely matches your quantity requirements.
Actual capacity varies with both ambient temperature and water temperature.
Selecting equipment based on the capacity at those conditions will ensure that adequate ice can be produced under most conditions encountered in operation. Pick a unit with appropriate noise level . The noise level of icemakers is typically equal to that of a window air conditioner, which is acceptable for most applications. In some cases, lower levels may be desirable, and the buyer should ensure that the manufacturer can provide equipment that meets those requirements. Pick a reliable unit .