The choice depends on your vessel's water capacity and trip length. Saltwater flake ice machines are ideal for extended offshore trips as they use unlimited seawater, eliminating freshwater storage requirements. Freshwater systems produce flake and cubed ice with superior quality and less corrosive impact on your catch. For day trips or vessels with adequate freshwater tanks, freshwater systems are often preferred. We'll assess your specific needs during consultation.

Ice requirements depend on catch volume, trip duration, and hold size. As a general guide, plan for 0.4-0.6kg of ice per kg of fish. A typical fishing vessel needs 200-500kg of ice daily, though tuna vessels and long-range boats may require 1000kg+ per day. Larger capacity is better than running short on ice mid-trip. We help calculate your requirements based on your actual fishing operations.

Marine ice machines need regular maintenance every 3-6 months or after every 3-4 trips depending on usage. Maintenance includes cleaning the evaporator plates, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting seawater intake filters, testing electrical components, and examining all seals and gaskets. Saltwater systems require more frequent descaling and corrosion prevention treatment. We offer maintenance contracts that fit around your fishing schedule.

Installation typically takes 2-5 days depending on system size and vessel modifications needed. This includes mounting the ice machine, running refrigerant lines, connecting seawater or freshwater plumbing, electrical installation, testing, and commissioning. We coordinate with your schedule and work efficiently to minimize boat downtime. For urgent installations before fishing season, we can expedite the process.

While we can't service vessels at sea, we provide 24/7 emergency phone support for troubleshooting and guidance. For urgent repairs in port or harbor, we prioritize commercial fishing vessels to get you back fishing quickly. Our technicians carry common spare parts for major brands and can often complete repairs the same day. For breakdowns before a scheduled trip, call our emergency line immediately.

We service all major marine ice machine brands including Kobol, Scotsman, Manitowoc, Icematic, Hoshizaki, and other commercial marine systems. Our technicians are trained on both saltwater and freshwater systems from various manufacturers. We stock commonly-needed parts and can source specialised components quickly. Even if your brand isn't listed, we likely have the expertise to service it.

With proper maintenance, quality marine ice machines last 10-15 years in the harsh marine environment. Saltwater systems may have shorter lifespans (8-12 years) due to increased corrosion potential. Regular descaling, corrosion prevention, and timely repairs significantly extend system life. We've maintained systems operating reliably for 20+ years with diligent care. The investment in quality equipment and maintenance pays dividends in reliability and longevity.