Hoshizaki Ice Machine Models: A Guide to the Lineup

Beyond the prefix, model numbers indicate capacity class and configuration. This guide maps representative Hoshizaki ice machine models by daily output, storage format, cooling, dispensing, and system components. For a broader explanation of cube, nugget, flake, and specialty formats, use our commercial ice maker types guide.

How to read Hoshizaki model numbers

Start with the prefix on Hoshizaki ice machine models. KM identifies crescent-cube equipment, IM covers individual square and specialty cubes, and F identifies flake machines. An F-series model ending in C produces cubelet, Hoshizaki’s nugget-style ice. DCM units produce, store, and dispense ice, often with water. DB units store and dispense ice supplied by a compatible modular head, while B-series products are storage bins.

The number usually indicates a capacity class, but it isn’t the unit’s guaranteed daily output. For example, the KM-1130MAK2 is rated for up to 1,181 pounds per 24 hours under stated test conditions. Always use the current specification sheet for the actual production rating.

Suffixes identify configuration details. M commonly appears in modular heads, and B commonly indicates built-in storage. A, W, and R may distinguish air-cooled, water-cooled, and remote-cooled configurations. Some model names also identify electrical phase or product generation. Read the complete suffix because similar Hoshizaki ice machine models can require different power, condensers, line sets, bins, and top kits.

Hoshizaki ice machine models by series

The lineup covers several ice shapes and installation formats. The tables below use representative current models rather than every available configuration. Maximum output reflects manufacturer ratings under stated conditions; actual production can fall in warmer air or with warmer incoming water.

KM crescent cubers

Among Hoshizaki ice machine models, the KM series produces crescent ice for general beverage service and other high-volume applications. It spans compact machines with built-in storage, modular heads, and remote-cooled systems that move condenser heat away from the ice-making area.

The KM-1130MAK2 replaces the discontinued KM-1100MAJ found in older lineup materials. Remote equipment such as the KM-2600SRJZ3 also uses an approved condenser and refrigerant line set; voltage, phase, and installed distance remain model-specific.

IM square and specialty cubers

IM-series Hoshizaki ice machine models freeze individual cubes instead of releasing crescent-shaped ice from a sheet. The series includes regular square cubes and specialty shapes for beverage programs that require a defined presentation.

The IM-544SAK can be stacked up to three units with the specified hardware and compatible bin arrangement. The IM-50BAA-Q serves a much smaller-volume specialty role. Confirm cube dimensions, output, and storage rather than relying on the IM prefix alone.

F-series flake and cubelet machines

F-series Hoshizaki ice machine models cover two distinct products. Standard F-series machines produce soft, moldable flake ice. A C suffix identifies compressed cubelet ice, which has a chewable, nugget-style texture.

Flake ice packs around seafood, produce, and other displayed products. Our flake ice machine for fish guide covers display quantities, handling, and sanitation in more depth. Cubelet equipment fits beverage and self-service programs built around softer ice. Higher-output options are available in the Hoshizaki modular nugget ice machine collection.

DCM and DB dispenser systems

DCM and DB products perform different jobs. A DCM unit produces cubelet ice, holds a working reserve, and dispenses it. A DB cabinet has no ice-making system; it stores and dispenses ice delivered by an approved modular head above it.

The DCM-300BAK’s published maximum applies at 70°F air and 50°F water; output falls as operating conditions become warmer. For DB systems, verify the head, dispenser, adapter, or top kit, combined height, floor loading, and service clearance. The hotel ice machine guide covers guest-floor capacity and placement separately.

System components across the Hoshizaki lineup

The format of Hoshizaki ice machine models determines which components belong in the finished system. Built-in-bin units combine production and storage, modular heads pair with approved bins or dispensers, and remote-cooled models also use matched condensers and line sets. Width alone doesn’t establish compatibility.

System components can include:

• Approved bin or dispenser
• Required top or adapter kit
• Remote condenser and line set, if applicable
• Water filter with adequate flow and capacity
• Correct voltage, phase, circuit, and disconnect
• Water supply, indirect drain, ventilation, and service clearances

The commercial ice machine accessories guide explains these components in more detail. The Hoshizaki ice storage bin collection groups available storage options, but every pairing still needs confirmation against the manufacturer’s compatibility documents. A properly sized commercial water filtration system can reduce sediment and scale exposure while supporting the flow rate specified for the machine.

Hoshizaki production and storage ratings

When comparing Hoshizaki ice machine models, production and storage measure different things. Daily production estimates how much ice the unit can produce over 24 hours under listed conditions. Storage indicates how much finished ice can be held for immediate use. A high-output head can still leave an operation short if the bin can’t cover its busiest draw.

Compare models using the rating closest to the installation environment. Maximum ratings often use 70°F air and 50°F water, while warmer-condition ratings commonly use 90°F air and 70°F water. AHRI Standard 810 establishes testing and rating requirements for automatic commercial ice makers.

Warm incoming water, restricted airflow, scale, a loaded filter, and high room temperature can reduce output. Calculate daily use and peak-period draw before reviewing the commercial ice machine sizing guide for detailed production and bin planning.

Hoshizaki series by common application

Hoshizaki ice machine models align with different ice and service needs by series:

• Small bar, office, or café: A compact KM or IM unit with built-in storage can keep the footprint contained.
• Full-service restaurant: A modular KM head and compatible bin can support broader beverage and kitchen demand.
• Cocktail program: An IM square or sphere model provides a defined shape for presentation.
• Seafood or produce display: An F-series flaker supplies moldable ice that packs around products.
• Chewable-ice beverage station: An F-series cubelet machine or DCM dispenser provides cubelet texture.
• Hotel guest floor: A DB dispenser paired with an approved KM head supports bucket filling.
• High-volume venue: A large modular or remote-cooled KM system can serve substantial production requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Navigate the Hoshizaki model lineup

A Hoshizaki model number is a compact equipment map. The prefix identifies the series, the number narrows the capacity class, and the suffix signals configuration details. From there, the tables above show how production, storage, cooling, and dispensing differ across representative models.

Published capacities are laboratory ratings, not guaranteed output in every installation. Confirm the current manufacturer sheet, approved system components, air and water conditions, electrical service, plumbing, clearances, and local code requirements for the exact model.

Ready to compare Hoshizaki ice machine models? Shop Hoshizaki ice machines, dispensers, bins, filters, and accessories, or call 877-900-4423 for help reviewing specifications and compatible components.

Hoshizaki and its model and series names are trademarks of their respective owners and are used for identification only.