Everything You Need to Know About Leasing Ice Machines

Ice machines are vital pieces of equipment for the hospitality industry, and hotels, bars, and restaurants across the country rely on these machines to produce large quantities of ice at a moment’s notice. Unfortunately, if your business needs a new ice machine, purchasing one outright can be very expensive.

Many businesses that require reliable, efficient ice production choose to lease ice machines instead of purchasing them. Leasing an ice machine on a short- or long-term basis can have many advantages over purchasing or renting, but you should know what to look for before you sign any lease agreement.

Ice machines aren't particularly expensive compared to other commercial refrigeration equipment, but most models still cost several thousand dollars each, which isn't exactly insignificant. Leasing an ice machine is a great way to avoid these upfront costs, especially if your business needs to keep a handle on expenses due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Ice machines also have a relatively short working lifespan, especially if they are used on a constant basis. Most models will last only a few years before they need replacing, so purchasing your ice machines is not a particularly good long-term investment. If you lease your machines, the leasing company will replace them when they become too old to function effectively.

Commercial ice machines can also suffer from a variety of mechanical problems, especially if people use them frequently or improperly. This can be a serious concern if customers use your ice machines, rather than employees who know how to use them correctly. 

If you own your ice machines, either your company's maintenance team or a potentially expensive, professional ice machine repair service will need to do any necessary repairs. If a leased ice machine breaks down, your chosen leasing service will repair it. This makes leasing ice machines particularly useful for businesses that do not employ large maintenance crews.

Choosing to lease your ice machines instead of buying them can be very advantageous. However, different companies offer different lease agreements for their ice machines. If you have thought of leasing new ice machines for your business, make sure that the lease agreement includes the following useful services.

Ice machines are large and sometimes cumbersome pieces of equipment, with many delicate internal components. You might accidentally damage an ice machine while transporting it to your business premises, and improper installation can deal even more damage. To play it safe, look for an ice machine lease agreement that includes installation and setup services.

Like most pieces of refrigeration equipment, ice machines need to be cleaned internally and externally on a regular basis to prevent contamination and mold growth. Dirty ice machines can also suffer from fluid line clogs and other mechanical faults. Ideally, your lease agreement should include regular machine cleaning services.

Most ice machine lease agreements include repair clauses and will be repaired if they break down. However, if your stricken ice machine needs a replacement component to function, you may have to pay for the replacement part(s) yourself. Make sure that your ice machine's lease agreement includes replacement parts coverage so you won't be left unexpectedly out of pocket if your ice machine malfunctions.

Some businesses rely more heavily on their ice machines than others. For example, an upscale cocktail bar that needs fresh ice on a constant basis can be crippled if its ice machine stops functioning during a busy weekend. 

If your business cannot function effectively without a constant supply of ice, you should choose a leased ice machine that your leasing company can replace quickly if on-site repair isn’t possible. Some leasing services offer emergency replacement services and will deliver a new ice machine to your door in a matter of hours.

If you have any more questions about leasing ice machines, contact the experts at Central York Corporation.