FAQ for Icetro Slush Machines

Slush (or slushie or non-carbonated frozen beverage) machines can seem tricky, but they don’t have to be. Whether you’re hosting a special event or just trying to beat the heat, your success is our priority. Icetro is committed to delivering reliable, high-performing slush equipment and the resources to ensure exceptional operation. Check out our most frequently asked questions (FAQ) for helpful insight on our slush machines!

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT SLUSH MACHINES

1. TYPES OF SLUSH: What drinks can be made in a slush machine?

ANSWER: Icetro slush machines can dispense a variety of alcoholic* and non-alcoholic frozen beverages including classic slushies, frozen fruit juice (no-pulp) drinks, and other specialty frozen beverages. (*Note: alcoholic mixes must have less than 20% alcohol content and all non-alcoholic mixes must have the correct sugar content for proper freezing. Details can be found below.)

2. FREEZE TUNEL How long will it take for my slush mix to freeze?

ANSWER: Under normal conditions, an Icetro slush machine typically takes 30 minutes to freeze without alcohol. Pre-chilling the slush mix can reduce the freezing time to approximately 15 minutes. With alcohol, it takes approximately 45-60 minutes to freeze. (Please keep in mind that these are generalizations and estimates and that actual time frames depend on multiple factors like ambient temperature, mix temperature, sugar content, alcohol content, etc.)

3. CAPACITY: How much liquid can my slush machine hold?

ANSWER: From light demand to a high-volume slush production, our selection of models has varying capacities to suit different output needs. The bowl capacities of our slush machines are as follows (please keep in mind that the capacities listed below are the total amount for the bowls and that usually your slush mix will occupy 75% of that capacity):

• SSM-180: 3.2 gal. x 1 bowl (for a total capacity of 3.2 gallons)

• SSM-280: 3.2 gal. x 2 bowls (for a total capacity of 6.4 gallons)

• SSM-420: 3.2 gal. x 3 bowls (for a total capacity of 8.6 gallons)

• SSM-52: 2 gal. x 2 bowls (for a total capacity of 4 gallons)

4. ELECTRICAL: How much electricity does my slush machine use?

ANSWER: The power consumption for Icetro ice machines is as follows:

• SSM-180: 0.43 HP (440 W)
• SSM-280: 1.37 HP (1,020 W)
• SSM-420: 1.81 HP (1,350 W)
• SSM-52: 0.67 HP (500 W)

5. OUTDOOR USE: Can this machine be used outdoors?

ANSWER: No, the Icetro slush machines are not certified for outdoor use, especially because excess heat can impede proper slush production.

6. CLEANING: How often do I need to clean my slush machine?

ANSWER: For optimal performance and product quality, we recommend a daily rinse and sanitation and a weekly deep clean, especially when you change mixes. Please check your local codes to ensure proper adherence to local regulations regarding cleaning and sanitation.

7. WEAR PARTS: How often should wearable parts be changed?

ANSWER: We recommend changing wearable parts every 6 months.

8. VISCOSITY: What should I adjust the viscosity to?

ANSWER: Icetro slush machines are shipped with optimal viscosity setting pre-set from the factory. Since many different factors can influence freezing time and viscosity, there are 4 different settings available by using the adjustment screw on the back of the unit.

9. BRIX: What’s the Brix ratio this machine can freeze with?

ANSWER: A Brix setting of 13 to 15 is recommended.

10. ALCOHOL CONTENT: How much alcohol can you add?

ANSWER: To ensure proper freezing, alcohol content should not exceed 20% of the mix. Icetro recommends 8% or less with a Brix of 13.

11. SUGAR CONTENT: Can I make slush without sugar in this machine? 

ANSWER: No. The sugar content must be within the recommended range for the machine to produce proper slush. Too little sugar can cause the mixture to freeze solid, while too much sugar can prevent it from freezing and leave it in liquid form. 

12. SLUSH MIX: What kind of slush mix is the best? 

ANSWER: Icetro slush machines are compatible with a wide variety of slush mixes, including popular brands such as Granita. They can also be used with sodas or customized with fruit to create different flavor options. 

BASIC TROUBLESHOOTING

13. TROUBLESHOOTING: Why won’t my slush mixture freeze? Why is it too watery?

ANSWER: Common causes of slush that is too watery include high sugar content, excessive alcohol, incorrect machine settings, or mechanical issues.

14. TROUBLESHOOTING: Why is my slush too thick or frozen solid?

ANSWER: Common causes of slush that is too thick or frozen solid include low sugar content, incorrect machine settings, or mechanical issues.

15. MIX STORAGE: Can I refrigerate my slush mix overnight?

ANSWER: Yes, Icetro slush machines have an overnight refrigeration mode to save energy. NOTE: the mix will return to a liquid state while in refrigeration mode. The freeze mode will need to be re-engaged during business hours.

16. ACCESSORIES: Are there any accessories that are compatible with my slush machine? 

ANSWER: Icetro offers several accessories that pair well with the machines including:

o   An ADA-compliant handle (SMA-ADA) for SSM-180/280/420

o   A black flat top (SMA-FT) for SSM-180/280/420

o   An autofill kit (SMA-AF280) for SSM-280

We hope these answers to common customer questions about the Icetro line of high-performance slush machines have been helpful to you. For additional questions or information, please go to the CONTACT US page and submit your inquiry. Thank you!