HOSHIZAKI 24-Inch Undercounter Crescent Ice Maker Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This hoshizaki km 161baj 23 75 inch air cooled undercounter review looks at a commercial-grade unit designed for high-volume needs. It produces crescent ice cubes with a daily production capacity of up to 163 pounds. The machine also features a substantial 78-pound built-in storage bin. This combination allows you to keep ice reserves stocked during peak service hours. The stainless steel exterior and air-cooled condenser make it suitable for busy environments. You get a self-contained system that does not require external water connections for cooling.
What stands out
- Daily production of up to 163 pounds of crescent ice
- 78-pound internal storage bin for extended supply
- Air-cooled condenser for simplified installation
- Stainless steel exterior for durability and easy cleaning
- ADA compliant height and front-opening bin
Who it fits
Good fit for
This unit suits busy restaurants, bars, or catering operations that need consistent ice availability. The high 163-pound daily production handles heavy demand without frequent refilling. The 78-pound storage capacity ensures you have enough ice for peak hours. The air-cooled design makes it easier to place in kitchens without complex plumbing for condenser cooling. If you require crescent cubes for cocktails or rapid chilling, this machine delivers that specific shape reliably.
Who should skip it
You should look at another option if you need portable ice making. This is a fixed undercounter unit requiring permanent installation. It also lacks water-cooled efficiency, which might increase energy use in very hot environments. If you need bullet or flake ice, this machine only produces crescent cubes. The 23.8-inch width fits standard undercounter spaces, but you must ensure your kitchen layout accommodates the 39-inch height and front-opening bin access.
Verdict: The Hoshizaki KM-161BAJ is a robust choice for commercial settings needing high-volume crescent ice. Its strong production rate and large storage bin make it a reliable workhorse for busy service environments.
Key specs explained for Hoshizaki
Ice Type: crescent
This unit produces crescent-shaped cubes rather than small pebbles or large blocks. Crescent ice is dense and melts slowly, which helps keep drinks cold without diluting them quickly. This shape is preferred for high-volume beverage service in bars and restaurants. If you need ice that stays solid longer, this form factor is a practical choice over standard nugget or cube styles.
Daily Ice Production: up to 163 lb/24 hours
The machine can generate up to 163 pounds of ice in a single day under specific test conditions. This high output supports busy commercial environments like hotels or catering services that require constant replenishment. You should verify if this matches your peak demand, as production drops in warmer ambient temperatures. Compare this figure with lower-capacity models to ensure you have enough supply for your busiest shifts.
Storage Capacity: 78 lb
The built-in bin holds 78 pounds of ice before it stops making more. This buffer allows the machine to keep running while you serve customers, reducing the need for frequent manual removal. A large storage volume is essential for high-traffic areas where ice is consumed rapidly. Ensure your service flow can handle this amount, as the bin is integrated into the undercounter design and cannot be easily expanded.
Form Factor: undercounter
This unit is designed to fit beneath standard countertops, saving valuable floor space. The compact footprint allows for integration into existing bar or kitchen layouts without requiring a separate room. You must measure your available width and height to ensure a proper fit. This form factor is ideal for establishments with limited square footage but a need for professional-grade ice production capabilities.
Cooling Type: Air-Cooled
The condenser uses ambient air to dissipate heat rather than requiring a water supply. This simplifies installation since you do not need to connect to a water line for cooling purposes. It is suitable for locations where water conservation is a priority or plumbing access is limited. Ensure the installation area has adequate ventilation, as air-cooled units require space for heat exchange to maintain efficient performance.
Design and build quality
According to the listing, the Hoshizaki KM-161BAJ features a stainless steel exterior. This material choice suggests durability and ease of cleaning, which is practical for busy commercial environments or high-use home bars. The unit measures 23.8 inches in width, 39 inches in height, and 28.3 inches in length. These dimensions define its undercounter form factor, allowing it to fit beneath standard countertops while providing a substantial footprint for ice production.
The machine sits on 6-inch painted legs. This elevation likely aids in airflow and maintenance access, which is important for an air-cooled system. The air-cooled design means you do not need a separate water-cooling line, simplifying installation in locations where plumbing for condenser water is unavailable. The front-opening bin provides straightforward access to the 78-pound storage capacity without requiring you to move the entire unit.
Certifications listed include NSF, UL, and cETLus, along with ADA compliance. These marks indicate adherence to specific safety and accessibility standards. The 115v/60/1-ph electrical requirement means it plugs into a standard household outlet, though you must ensure your circuit can handle the 7.1 amps draw. The compact yet robust build supports its role as a high-volume ice maker that fits into existing kitchen layouts without major structural modifications.
Setup and daily operation notes
This unit is a self-contained air-cooled machine, meaning it does not require external water lines or drainage for its cooling system. You will need to connect it to a standard 115-volt, 60-hertz, single-phase electrical outlet. The listing specifies a current draw of 7.1 amps, which fits typical commercial circuits. The unit stands on six-inch painted legs, allowing you to slide it under a counter or place it on a sturdy surface. Ensure you leave adequate clearance around the sides and rear for air circulation, as the air-cooled condenser relies on ambient airflow to function efficiently.
Daily use centers on the crescent cube production cycle. The machine can produce up to 163 pounds of ice in twenty-four hours under ideal conditions at 70°F ambient and 50°F water temperatures. In warmer environments, such as 90°F ambient and 70°F water, AHRI certified production drops to 123 pounds per day. The built-in storage bin holds 78 pounds of ice, so you will need to remove ice regularly if you are serving high volumes. The front-opening bin design allows you to access the ice without moving the entire unit. Cleaning involves wiping the stainless steel exterior and maintaining the internal ice-making components according to the manufacturer’s schedule. The unit is NSF, UL, and cETLus certified, indicating it meets specific safety and sanitation standards for commercial use. ADA compliance suggests the front controls and bin are accessible for users with varying heights or mobility needs.
Before You Buy This Ice Maker
This Hoshizaki unit is a serious piece of equipment for high-volume ice needs. It requires a standard 115-volt outlet and sufficient clearance for air-cooled condenser operation. You must ensure your space accommodates its 23.8-inch width and 39-inch height. The stainless steel exterior demands regular cleaning to maintain hygiene and appearance. Unlike compact refrigerators, this machine focuses solely on ice production. It does not cool beverages or store food. If you need a combined cooling and freezing solution, this undercounter ice maker is not the right fit. It is best suited for commercial kitchens, busy home bars, or events where crescent ice is preferred. The 78-pound storage bin helps buffer peak demand, but you should verify your electrical circuit can handle the 7.1-amp draw. Proper ventilation is critical for maintaining the rated 163-pound daily production. Without adequate airflow, efficiency drops significantly. This machine integrates well into existing commercial setups but requires dedicated space and power.
Check before you buy
- Verify your space fits the 23.8-inch width and 39-inch height.
- Ensure a dedicated 115-volt circuit can handle the 7.1-amp draw.
- Confirm adequate ventilation space for the air-cooled condenser.
- Check if you need only ice or a full refrigerator.
- Plan for regular cleaning of the stainless steel exterior.
The product at a glance
Hoshizaki 24-Inch Undercounter Crescent Ice Maker
Best for: High-volume bars needing ADA height
- Daily Ice Production
- up to 163 lb/24 hours
- Storage Capacity
- 78 lb
- Ice Type
- crescent
- Form Factor
- undercounter
- Cooling Type
- Air-Cooled
- Color
- Stainless Steel
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This Hoshizaki unit is a 23.75-inch air-cooled undercounter ice maker. It produces up to 163 pounds of crescent ice daily. The built-in bin holds 78 pounds of ice. It features a stainless steel exterior and ADA-compliant height. This machine suits high-volume needs where space is tight. You get reliable production in a compact footprint.
Pros
- Produces up to 163 lb of ice per 24 hours
- 78 lb built-in storage capacity
- Crescent cube style for fast cooling
- ADA compliant height for accessibility
Cons
- 23.75-inch width limits placement in narrow spaces
- Air-cooled design requires adequate ventilation
- No mention of water line integration details
Good fit if
- You need high daily ice production for a bar
- You require ADA compliant counter height
- You want crescent cubes for quick chilling
Skip if
- You need a compact under 15-inch width
- You prefer square or bullet ice shapes
- You lack space for air-cooled ventilation
Verdict: Hoshizaki 24-Inch Undercounter Crescent Ice Maker delivers serious output for busy bars. It fits users who need ADA height and crescent cubes.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Hoshizaki 24-Inch Undercounter Crescent Ice Maker |
|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | up to 163 lb/24 hours |
| Storage Capacity | 78 lb |
| Ice Type | crescent |
| Form Factor | undercounter |
| Cooling Type | Air-Cooled |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Dimensions | 28.3 × 23.8 × 39 inches |
| Model | 1145-00495 |
Frequently asked questions
Is this ice maker suitable for ADA compliant counters?
Yes, the Hoshizaki unit is designed for ADA height requirements. Its height measures 39 inches, which aligns with standard accessible counter levels. This makes it ideal for users who need to operate the machine without bending or reaching excessively. The undercounter form factor ensures it fits beneath standard cabinetry while remaining accessible.
What shape are the ice cubes produced?
The machine produces crescent-shaped ice cubes. These cubes are dense and melt slowly, which helps keep drinks cold without diluting them quickly. This shape is preferred for high-volume beverage service because it fits well in standard glassware and provides a consistent cooling effect for cocktails and mixed drinks.
Does this model require external water lines for cooling?
No, this is an air-cooled unit. It does not require external water lines or drainage for its cooling system. You only need to connect it to a standard 115-volt, 60-hertz, single-phase electrical outlet. This simplifies installation in locations where plumbing access for condenser cooling is limited.
What are the exact dimensions of the Hoshizaki ice maker?
The unit measures 23.8 inches in width, 39 inches in height, and 28.3 inches in length. These dimensions confirm it is a 24-inch undercounter model. You must ensure your space accommodates this width and height, along with sufficient clearance for air-cooled condenser operation to maintain efficiency.
Is the exterior made of stainless steel?
Yes, the listing specifies a stainless steel exterior. This material choice suggests durability and ease of cleaning, which is practical for busy commercial environments or high-use home bars. The stainless steel finish helps resist corrosion and maintains a professional appearance in high-traffic areas where frequent sanitization is necessary.
Who is this ice maker best suited for?
This unit is best for high-volume bars needing ADA height. It delivers serious output for busy establishments that require crescent cubes. The combination of substantial daily production and accessible height makes it a strong choice for commercial settings where speed and ergonomic operation are critical for staff efficiency.