Bob Wood, Director of DC Warewashing & Icemaking Systems, discusses the range of icemakers available for hospital kitchens and wards.

There is a wide range of icemakers and icemaking systems available; from self-contained units - with integral storage bin - that are small enough to fit on the counter itself, to large-capacity modular systems, with separate production and storage units for larger catering operations.

Self-service ice dispensers feature optical sensors that enable ice delivery without direct contact, which dramatically reduces the possibility of contamination and ensures the highest standards of hygiene.

The size and location of icemakers in hospitals will play a large part in determining which make and model would be best suited to that area and purpose. The most suitable and desirable 'ice-type' will influence the choice of model.

Classic ice machines are the most popular, producing solid cubes of crystalline ice that cool quickly but melt slowly. Granular ice, which is similar to crushed ice, is particularly suitable for hospitals and nursing homes with post-operative patients or patients with Dysphagia (swallowing problems) and is also used for buffet displays and in cafeterias. Hollow ice is suited to hard water areas owing to its ice manufacturing process and, finally, Pebble ice is a hybrid ice that is used to make smoothies and iced teas and coffees.

Before buying your new icemaker or icemaking system, you should consider:

• How much ice you need on a daily basis and at peak times.
  
• The efficiency of ice production.
  
• The type of icemaker you require : Self-contained or modular.
• Whether you have a well ventilated area in which to position your machine.
  
• The ambient air temperature in the selected area. Contrary to popular belief, icemakers do not perform well or efficiently in very cold environments.
• Installing a water filter. Mains water, despite appearing clear, contains many minerals and odours that will affect the quality of your ice and decrease the life expectancy of your machine.

Read full article in Hospital Caterer (HSA) April issue ...