Ice Generators

A professional ice generator is a fundamental piece of bar and kitchen equipment — restaurants, hotels and cafés consume large quantities of ice daily for cooling drinks, storing products and preparing food. A properly selected ice generator ensures a continuous supply of ice without manual labour.

Types of ice and their uses

Ice cubes are the most popular form — a solid, slow-melting ice shape for cooling drinks in bars and restaurants. Larger cubes retain temperature longer without diluting the drink. BHS offers Ice Generator SP CUBE 36 GR, Ice Cube Generator 14 GR and Ice Generator KP CUBE 18 g models with different production capacities.

Finger ice (tube ice) consists of cylindrical ice pieces that work well in smoothie machines, for cooling drinks and chilling food. The Ice Generator KV Finger 21 GR and Ice Generator PS Finger 20 GR models provide this fraction.

Granular ice is fine, translucent ice granules used in salad bars, for decorating fish and seafood, and in some cocktails. The GR / KS Granular Ice Generator produces this fraction.

The CD DIAMOND ICE Ice Generator produces decorative diamond-shaped ice used in premium bars for visually appealing drink presentations.

SPLIT system

The Ice Generator SPLIT is a two-unit system with a separate compressor block and ice production block — ideal for locations where a compact installation size is important or where the ice generator needs to be placed away from the refrigeration unit.

Additional accessories

Ice generators require filters to reduce limescale build-up and extend the appliance’s lifespan. Regular filter replacement is essential for the ice generator’s longevity. Ice storage bins allow the produced ice to be stored if the generator stops working.

How to choose an ice generator

The main selection criteria are the required ice type, daily production capacity and installation space dimensions. A restaurant with an active bar needs a higher capacity than a small office kitchen’s ice machine.

• Determine the required ice type and shape
• Calculate daily consumption and select the appropriate production capacity
• Check the availability of water supply and drainage connections
• Plan regular filter replacement and appliance maintenance
• Consult with BHS on the most suitable model

Installing an ice generator in the bar area

Professional ice generator installation requires a water supply connection, drainage and proper ventilation — these technical aspects must be considered before purchase. Air-cooled models require sufficient air circulation around the appliance, while water-cooled models need a constant water flow. Proper installation ensures optimal performance and a longer service life.

Water quality and filtration

Water hardness can significantly accelerate the wear of an ice generator and reduce its efficiency. Limescale deposits form on the ice-making surfaces and inside the appliance, gradually reducing efficiency and ice quality. Regular water filtration is a mandatory requirement — replacing the filter every six months or more frequently, depending on water hardness, significantly extends the appliance’s lifespan.

Ice storage and hygiene

Produced ice must be stored in hygienically safe conditions — ice storage bins prevent ice contamination and maintain its cleanliness. Regular disinfection of the bins is a mandatory hygiene requirement, especially during the summer season. BHS offers ice bins in various capacities — from smaller bar station bins to larger storage for events or catering needs across Europe.

Planning ice generator maintenance

Regular preventive maintenance significantly extends the ice generator’s service life and maintains ice quality. The maintenance cycle includes cleaning the condenser, disinfection and filter replacement.

Purchasing and installing an ice generator

Purchasing an ice generator from BHS begins with a consultation, where the BHS team assesses the bar or restaurant’s ice consumption, the required ice type and the installation site’s possibilities. Based on this information, BHS recommends the most suitable ice generator from the extensive range — cube, finger, granular or diamond-shaped ice. Installation preparation includes checking the availability of water supply and drainage, as well as evaluating ventilation requirements. Businesses can contact BHS either in person or remotely, receiving full support for purchase and installation.

Frequently asked questions

What production capacity is needed for an active bar?

An active bar with many cocktails requires an ice generator with a production capacity of at least 50–80 kg per day. Hotels and large restaurants may require 100 kg or more. BHS helps calculate the required production capacity based on the specific business’s daily ice consumption.

Does an ice generator require a permanent water supply connection?

Most professional ice generators require a permanent water supply connection and drainage. Some models offer a water tank option for events. BHS helps select a model based on the installation possibilities.

Why choose BHS?

BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.

Delivery

We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.