How Long Does It Take for a Hoshizaki Ice Machine to Make Ice?

If you’re running a busy restaurant in a tourist-centric city like Honolulu, you undoubtedly depend on your Hoshizaki ice machine to keep your customers’ drinks tasting fresh and chilled. However, on busy nights, when your guests are especially thirsty, your ice machine might struggle to keep up the pace. Impressive as Hoshizaki ice machines are, all commercial systems have their limits. So, how do you know whether your machine can keep up with the potential demand of your restaurant? How long does it take for a Hoshizaki ice machine to make ice?

If you can gain a rough idea of how long it takes for your ice machine to produce ice, you can figure out the maximum number of drinks you can serve in day. You can also determine the best time to start your ice machine’s first cycle so that you have fresh ice ready for the first customers who walk through your doors.

At Pacific Ice Services, we’re Oahu’s local ice specialists, having been serving businesses in a broad variety of industries since 1973. If your ice machine isn’t producing as much ice as it should be, or if your model can’t keep up with your business’s increasing demand, we have a variety of ice machines available to buy or rent. Below, we look at the factors that affect the rate of ice production regarding Hoshizaki models, but don’t hesitate to call us for more specific advice.

How Long Does It Take for a Hoshizaki Ice Machine to Make Ice? What You Need to Know

Most Hoshizaki ice machines take anywhere between 15 to 40 minutes to produce a batch of ice, depending on factors such as:

1. Ice Type

Different ice types require varying amounts of time to freeze. For example, crescent cubes – often used in drinks – take longer to form due to their larger size and density. On the other hand, flake ice and cubelet ice freeze more quickly because they contain more air and less water. Understanding the type of ice your machine produces will help you manage expectations regarding production time.

2. Water Temperature

Incoming water temperature plays a crucial role in ice production speed. Ideally, water should be around 50°F (10°C) for optimal results. If the water temperature is too high – above 70°F (21°C) – the machine will need additional time to freeze it. To improve ice production efficiency, consider installing a water chiller or using a filtration system to maintain a consistent water temperature.

3. Ambient Temperature

The temperature of the surrounding environment significantly impacts your ice maker's performance. Hoshizaki machines operate best when the ambient temperature stays below 70°F (21°C). Higher room temperatures can force the condenser to work harder, which slows down the freezing process and increases cycle time. Positioning the machine in a cooler area, away from heat sources like ovens or dishwashers, can enhance its efficiency.

4. Cleanliness and Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal ice production. Dirty condenser coils, clogged filters, or mineral buildup can hinder performance, resulting in longer ice-making cycles. Ensure you clean the condenser coils regularly and replace water filters as needed. Keeping the machine in good condition will help maintain consistent ice production times.

5. Water Quality and Pressure

Water quality affects ice production as well. High mineral content can lead to scale buildup inside the machine, slowing down the freezing process. Inconsistent or low water pressure can disrupt the ice-making cycle and reduce output. Aim to use filtered water and ensure the water pressure meets Hoshizaki’s recommended range (typically 10–113 PSI) to support efficient ice production.

Still Have Questions Like ‘How Long Does It Take for a Hoshizaki Ice Machine to Make Ice?’

As you can see from above, it takes 15 to 40 minutes for a Hoshizaki machine to produce a batch of ice, depending on factors such as water pressure, temperature, ice type, the condition of your ice machine. If your ice machine needs a little TLC – of if you need an extra machine to keep up with demand – we’re only a phone call away. At Pacific Ice Services, we’ve been Oahu’s go-to specialists for over five decades, so contact us today to find out how we can help you.