Who doesn’t love a cold, delicious ice cream cone on a hot summer day or a rich, delicious chocolate topped sundae to beat the heat? It’s not always a simple matter to make ice cream at home and so restaurants have added ice cream machines to their inventory to bring in added business and offer scrumptious deserts.

Restaurateurs are adding commercial ice cream machines to their existing inventory or opening shops that primarily sell ice cream. Deciding to add ice cream to the business is a costly investment, the main piece of equipment being a commercial ice cream maker that is durable and produces a top-quality ice cream, and that is why finding the best ice cream machine for your restaurant is so important.

Ice cream machines can cost anywhere from several thousand to upwards of ten thousand or more. Countertop models are typically less expensive than large floor models. A counter top model usually makes one flavor of ice cream and is the least expensive to purchase. Floor models produce more than one flavor and can also have topping dispensers. These models are very expensive yet they do offer more variety.

Ice cream machines have to be cleaned thoroughly and sanitized often to prevent buildup of bacteria. It is important that the machine have appropriate instructions on how to disassemble and reassemble the inner workings that make the ice cream. If possible, ask the distributor to demonstrate this.

When purchasing ice cream machines there are several factors to keep in mind:

* Quantity Produced and Freezing Time: Make sure the machine purchased is going to be able to produce an ample amount of ice cream in a relatively short period of time. No one wants to watch profits walk out the door because they can’t fulfill the orders. Finding the right size ice cream machine means making an accurate prediction on customer volume.

* Service and Warranty: Before purchasing an ice cream machine for the restaurant, check its warranty and service plans. Commercial equipment should have at least a five-year warranty. Find out how long it will take a service technician to arrive on-site to assess the problem, and then ask how long it will take to make repairs. They won’t be able to quote exact times but they should be able to quote what their typical time for repairs is.

* If purchasing used ice cream equipment, make sure all documentation on the machine is available. Commercial ice cream makers can be complicated to assemble the first time. Make sure the machine works, ask to see it running and if possible even sample its ice cream.

Where to Purchase

Ice cream machines can be purchased from restaurant supply companies or retailers who specialize in ice cream machine. The Internet can help locate dealers who can then arrange for a viewing of their products. Local classified ads and online classifieds are another excellent way to find used ice cream machines.

Check local restaurants that are going out of business, chances are they have equipment that they need to liquidate. This is the best way to get an entire setup at one time. Chances are good that if they are selling their ice cream machine they are probably selling their other equipment as well.

Ice cream is a fun treat for adults and children alike. Adding it to an existing restaurant or starting an ice cream shop can be a prosperous and fun venture. The right ice cream maker is the key ingredient to a successful and yummy product.

-Sharon V. Chapman

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