Where does the heat go?
Freezing creates heat. Air-cooled machines blow it into the room with fans; water-cooled machines release it through the water. That sounds like a detail, but it changes the whole working day.
Air-cooled
- Simple: plug in, no water connection
- Flexible: good for mobile and seasonal stands
- Releases warm air into the sales area
- Loses output in heat and poor ventilation; compressor and fans run longer and louder
Water-cooled
- Steady freezing output even in heat and with long queues
- Quieter, and no warm air in the room
- Less load on the compressor
- Needs a water supply and drain and uses water; according to Nissei about 40 to 90 m³ per year, depending on the model
Side by side
| Air-cooled | Water-cooled | |
|---|---|---|
| Set-up | Plug in, done | Water supply and drain |
| Flexibility | Mobile, seasonal | Fixed site |
| Heat in the room | Yes | No |
| Noise | Louder | Quieter |
| In heat | Loses output | Stays stable |
| Suits | Food truck, pop-up, small kiosk | Ice cream parlour, busy kiosk, hotel |
Our rule of thumb
- No water connection or mobile: air-cooled
- Up to about 150 portions a day and good ventilation: air-cooled works
- From about 150 to 400 portions a day: water-cooled recommended
- Above that, or with sun and heat in the sales area: water-cooled only
A common mistake
“Put the machine outside so guests can see it.” It looks good but costs output: air-cooled machines often give up in direct sun. Show off your ice cream with signs, a nice display or by portioning in front of your guests instead.
Related
Frequently asked questions
Which cooling is better in heat?
Water cooling. Air-cooled machines overheat more easily and then do not reach the right texture.
Do water-cooled machines use a lot of water?
Modern models use less than many think: according to Nissei about 40 to 90 m³ per year, depending on the model.
Can I use an air-cooled machine in a food truck?
Yes, for mobile use without a water connection air cooling is the right choice. Plan enough clearance for the air.
Are there in-between solutions?
Yes: water cooling with a closed-loop recooler, or air cooling with an exhaust duct to the outside. We check with you what works on site.
Sources
We quote makers’ figures with their source. Experience from our kiosk is marked as such.
