The Follett 7 Series ice machine is a leading choice for commercial needs, renowned for reliably delivering up to 125 pounds of soft, chewable Chewblet ice daily. This detailed buying guide will explore its key features, including superior sanitation with antimicrobial treatment and filtered ice, compare various models, and offer practical advice on pricing, purchase, and upkeep.
Summary
- The Follett 7 Series ice machine produces up to 125 pounds of soft, chewable Chewblet ice daily, featuring a 7-pound immediate ice storage capacity and energy-efficient, drainless design suitable for commercial use.
- Key models include countertop, undercounter, freestanding, and ADA compliant variants, offering flexibility in placement and specialized dispensing options like sparkling water.
- Advanced sanitation features include antimicrobial treatments, UV light, and filtered ice systems, though regular cleaning every six months or more frequently in heavy-use environments is essential for optimal hygiene.
- Prices vary by model and supplier, generally starting around $4,272 for countertop units, with considerations for shipping, installation, and maintenance costs affecting total ownership expenses.
- Authorized dealers ensure genuine products with warranty and technical support; routine maintenance and troubleshooting guidelines help maintain performance and ice quality over time.
Overview of the Follett 7 Series Ice Machine
The Follett 7 Series ice machine is a leading solution for commercial settings, offering a blend of performance and practical design. While renowned for consistently producing up to 125 pounds of soft, chewable Chewblet ice daily, its overview highlights features that extend beyond capacity. This series is notably energy-efficient, consuming less water and power than comparable ice machines, making it ideal for work environments serving up to 30 people. Furthermore, its clever drainless design allows for flexible placement, while an integrated ion-exchange filter helps combat scale buildup, ensuring both longevity and the delivery of clean, great-tasting ice with minimized cross-contamination risks through sanitary dispensing.
Key Features and Specifications of Follett 7 Series Ice Machines
The Follett 7 Series ice machine offers precise performance details and thoughtful design specifications. While known for producing up to 125 pounds of soft, chewable Chewblet ice daily, specific models like the E7CI100A Countertop Ice & Water Dispenser can yield approximately 54.4 kilograms (about 350 servings) per day under optimal conditions (21°C air & 10°C water), adapting to 40.8 kilograms in warmer environments (32°C air & 21°C water). These units also feature a practical 7 pounds (3.2 kg) ice storage capacity and utilize efficient air cooled technology. For those considering a compact solution, the E7CI100A boasts physical dimensions of 371mm wide x 562mm deep x 447mm high. Beyond its ice production, some 7 Series dispensers offer an innovative sparkling water dispensing feature, expanding beverage choices. Each machine also stands out with a stylish design, incorporating a modern stainless steel interior and accent trim to complement any commercial setting.
Ice Production Capacity and Storage
The Follett 7 Series ice machine is designed to efficiently manage both its daily ice-making capability and on-hand storage for commercial needs. While this unit can produce a substantial quantity—up to 125 pounds (54.4 kg) of Chewblet ice per day under optimal conditions—it’s crucial to understand that this figure represents a theoretical maximum over 24 hours, assuming continuous operation. For immediate use, the machine features a practical 7 pounds (3.2 kg) ice storage capacity, which is the amount of ice readily available for dispensing at any given moment. This distinction is important because the 24-hour production capacity of commercial ice makers often exceeds their internal storage, meaning users should consider how their daily usage and peak demand align with the smaller, immediate storage capacity of the Follett 7 Series ice machine to ensure a consistent supply.
Ice Types Produced by the Follett 7 Series
The Follett 7 Series ice machine is renowned for producing a specific and highly popular ice type: Chewblet ice. This signature ice is characterized by its soft, chewable, and compressed nugget form, making it distinct from traditional hard cube or flake ice. The unique texture of Chewblet ice is widely preferred by users who enjoy its satisfying crunch and gentler feel, which also makes it ideal for blending beverages and protecting dental health. Each Follett 7 Series ice machine model, such as the E7CI100A, is specifically engineered to consistently deliver this high-quality, customer-preferred nugget ice.
Sanitation and Antimicrobial Treatments
The Follett 7 Series ice machine incorporates advanced sanitation and antimicrobial treatments to ensure a clean and safe ice supply. These treatments are specifically designed to actively inhibit the growth of common contaminants like mold, slime, and odor-causing bacteria on the internal surfaces of the ice machine, including the ice path and storage areas. Technologies often used in such systems, such as AlphaSan antimicrobial agents or Sciessent’s Agion® Antimicrobial technology, work to suppress the growth of harmful microorganisms. However, it is vital to understand that while these treatments significantly enhance hygiene by limiting microbial growth, they do not protect against all food-borne or disease-causing bacteria. Therefore, regular and thorough cleaning of your Follett 7 Series ice machine remains an essential practice, complementing the built-in antimicrobial features to maintain the highest levels of sanitation and ensure consistently pure Chewblet ice.
Energy Efficiency and Design Benefits
The Follett 7 Series ice machine stands out for its superior energy efficiency and thoughtful design, providing tangible benefits for any commercial environment. Its energy-efficient design helps businesses significantly reduce energy consumption and operational costs, leading to lower utility bills and an improved overall cost of ownership over time. Beyond the financial advantages, this focus on efficiency also contributes to enhanced environmental sustainability, helping businesses lower their carbon footprint. Complementing its efficient performance, the Follett 7 Series ice machine incorporates practical design elements like the clever drainless system, which allows for highly flexible placement without needing a floor drain. These machines also boast a stylish design with a modern stainless steel interior and accent trim, ensuring they not only perform well but also look great in any professional setting.
Comparing Models Within the Follett 7 Series
While all Follett 7 Series ice machine models consistently produce the signature soft, chewable Chewblet ice and uphold superior sanitation standards, their primary differences lie in form factor and dispensing capabilities to suit diverse commercial environments. Buyers will find variations such as compact countertop units, like the specific E7CI100A, which is also notable for its capacity to dispense ice, water, and sometimes even innovative sparkling water. In contrast, other models might be designed as undercounter installations or freestanding family models, differing in their footprint and placement flexibility, while retaining the daily ice output of up to 125 pounds. Additionally, the series includes specific ADA compliant variants, ensuring accessibility without compromising performance. These distinctions primarily guide selection based on available space, specific beverage offerings, and accessibility needs, rather than core ice-making technology.
Countertop vs Undercounter Models
Choosing between Follett 7 Series ice machine countertop and undercounter models primarily revolves around optimal space utilization and aesthetic integration within your commercial setting. Countertop units, exemplified by models like the E7CI100A, are designed for highly visible placement on existing counters or bar tops. This positioning makes them ideal for self-serve environments where patrons need direct, easy access to ice, water, and sometimes even sparkling water, prioritizing convenience and a clear presence. Undercounter models, on the other hand, are engineered to fit discreetly beneath counters, offering a seamless and integrated look that preserves valuable workspace above. This choice is often preferred in kitchens or service areas where appliances need to be less conspicuous, or where floor space is at a premium, allowing for greater flexibility in layout and design.
ADA Compliant Variants
ADA compliant variants of the Follett 7 Series ice machine are specially designed to provide full accessibility for individuals with disabilities. These models feature thoughtful adjustments, such as positioning operating controls and ice dispensing areas within easily reachable heights, typically between 15 and 48 inches from the floor. They are also engineered for straightforward use, often allowing operation with just one hand, without requiring tight grasping, pinching, or twisting actions. This ensures that the convenient, high-quality Chewblet ice produced by the Follett 7 Series ice machine is accessible to all users in any self-serve or public-facing commercial environment, helping businesses meet federal accessibility standards and foster a more inclusive experience.
Freestanding Family Models
Freestanding family models of the Follett 7 Series ice machine are designed to operate as independent units, offering exceptional placement flexibility for various environments, including homes, small businesses, or office settings. Unlike integrated or built-in models, these freestanding appliances are engineered to stand alone, meaning they don’t require custom cabinetry or fixed installations, much like a typical freestanding refrigerator that can be placed against a wall or next to cabinets. This design gives users the freedom to position the ice machine wherever it’s most convenient, even accommodating diverse kitchen layouts or temporary setups, making them ideal for renters or those who frequently update their space. These models still deliver the consistent daily output of up to 125 pounds of Chewblet ice, ensuring families or small commercial teams have a reliable supply without being constrained by permanent placement limitations.
Pricing and Cost Considerations for Follett 7 Series Ice Machines
The initial purchase price for a Follett 7 Series ice machine can vary significantly based on the specific model and supplier. Generally, you can expect starting prices for countertop units around $4,272.00, while floor-undercounter models begin at approximately $5,696.00. For example, a Follett 7 Series Countertop Ice & Water Dispenser (E7CI100A) might be listed at about $4,842.75, though some offers show prices as low as $2,500.00 (fixed or best offer), highlighting potential savings during sales or through different vendors. Undercounter units like the Champion 7 Undercounter Ice Water, originally priced at around $11,005.00, are often available for a discounted price of approximately $6,052.75. It’s important to research various Follett Ice Machine Price listings, as prices often fluctuate depending on the vendor and current promotions.
Beyond the upfront cost, consider additional financial factors such as shipping, which can add around $200.00 for models like the E7CI100A, and ongoing maintenance supplies, with Follett ice machine cleaner starting at about $48.75. Despite these additional expenditures, the Follett 7 Series ice machine is designed to be energy-efficient, using less electricity and water than comparable machines. This efficiency translates into tangible cost savings over time by reducing utility bills and lowering the overall cost per ice cube, making it a smart long-term investment that contributes to reduced overall ice production costs.
Where to Buy Follett 7 Series Ice Machines: Authorized Dealers and Distributors
For those looking to acquire a Follett 7 Series ice machine, your best and most reliable option is through authorized dealers and distributors. These official channels, which often include domestic distributors and specialized servicing dealers, are crucial because they guarantee you receive a genuine product, full manufacturer warranty, and access to certified technical support for installation and ongoing maintenance. You’ll find these high-quality ice machines offered by trusted partners like FactoryPURE, Pure Water Technology, and Pure Water Pennsylvania, who are known to carry the Follett 7 Series Ice Dispenser. While online marketplaces, such as eBay Commercial Ice Machines, might list these units, it’s always smart to verify the seller’s authorization directly with Follett Corporation to ensure your investment comes with reliable after-sales service and genuine parts, protecting you from potential issues.
Benefits of Choosing Follett 7 Series Ice Machines for Commercial Use
Choosing a Follett 7 Series ice machine for your commercial setting provides clear advantages that directly enhance operations, customer satisfaction, and your overall profitability. These machines are a valuable investment because they consistently deliver up to 125 pounds of soft, chewable Chewblet ice daily, a highly preferred ice type that significantly improves beverage quality and the customer experience. Businesses also benefit from reduced operating costs due to the series’ proven energy efficiency, which lowers both water and electricity consumption compared to many other ice makers. The integrated ion-exchange filter and advanced antimicrobial treatments ensure superior hygiene and consistently clean, great-tasting ice, actively preventing scale buildup and minimizing contamination risks while extending the machine’s lifespan. Furthermore, the Follett 7 Series ice machine offers flexible placement options with its clever drainless design, and the availability of ADA compliant variants ensures accessibility for all, contributing to a more inclusive and efficient commercial environment.
Maintenance, Cleaning, and Troubleshooting for Follett 7 Series Ice Machines
Maintaining your Follett 7 Series ice machine is key to ensuring its longevity and consistent production of clean Chewblet ice. Regular maintenance tasks include cleaning the condenser coil, checking and replacing water filters as needed, and performing basic visual inspections for any visible issues or component wear. For comprehensive cleaning, especially if the machine has been out of service, a thorough inspection and sanitizing of the Evaporator, Water Reservoir, Drain & Feed tube, Ice Hopper, and Condenser are essential; if biofilm or scale is discovered in these areas, additional cleaning procedures are required to restore optimal hygiene. Should you encounter operational problems, consult the official Follett ice machine troubleshooting guide to resolve simple issues or identify when professional repair by service technicians may be necessary for major concerns.
Recommended Cleaning Procedures and Frequency
To ensure your Follett 7 Series ice machine consistently produces clean, high-quality Chewblet ice and operates efficiently, a comprehensive cleaning and sanitizing cycle should be performed at least once every six months. This recommended frequency, often specified by manufacturers, is a crucial part of maintaining the machine’s performance and extending its lifespan. However, the precise cleaning schedule should adapt to your operational needs; for instance, areas with hard water, higher usage volumes, or demanding environments like hospitality and healthcare industries may require more frequent, even quarterly, cleaning. Beyond the biannual deep clean, regular, less intensive procedures are vital: the ice bin should be wiped down at least once per week, and after any descaling or sanitizing. For the dispenser, a quick flush with warm water after each shift is a smart daily practice. Additionally, a remedial sanitizing procedure, involving running a clean cycle with sanitizer and multiple rinses without removing parts, can be done monthly to maintain cleanliness between comprehensive services.
Handling Biofilm and Scale Issues
When facing biofilm and scale issues in your Follett 7 Series ice machine, specific actions are needed beyond routine upkeep. While your machine benefits from an integrated ion-exchange filter to combat scale and antimicrobial treatments designed to inhibit microbial growth, if actual biofilm (slime) or mineral scale is discovered within crucial components like the evaporator, water reservoir, drain & feed tube, or ice hopper, additional, specialized cleaning is essential. Standard cleaning techniques and ordinary disinfectants are often insufficient for established biofilm; instead, physical scrubbing followed by thorough sanitizing is required to effectively break down and remove these contaminants. Since complete removal of established biofilm can be incredibly difficult, consistent preventative measures, such as the regular use of products like Follett Safe Clean Plus Liquid, are highly recommended to prevent the initial buildup of both scale and biofilm. For severe scale buildup in extensively affected systems, inhibited acid cleaners, typically applied by an experienced serviceman, may be necessary to fully restore hygiene and performance.
Sanitizing After Periods of Non-Use
When a Follett 7 Series ice machine has been out of service for an extended period, particularly 7 days or more, thorough sanitizing is essential before it is used again. This vital step goes beyond basic cleaning by actively lowering the number of germs and harmful bacteria on internal surfaces to a safe level, thereby protecting against contamination and ensuring the continued delivery of pure Chewblet ice. You should perform a comprehensive cleaning and sanitizing of all crucial internal components, including the evaporator, water reservoir, drain and feed tube, and ice hopper. After cleaning, apply a manufacturer-recommended sanitizing solution, allowing it to remain in contact for the specified duration—typically around 20 minutes for ice machines—to effectively disinfect. Many commercial sanitizers are designed not to be rinsed after application, as this can create a protective barrier that continues to inhibit microbial growth. However, always consult your specific Follett 7 Series ice machine manual for precise instructions and recommended sanitizers to ensure proper procedure and avoid any potential damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Follett 7 Series Ice Machines
When considering a Follett 7 Series ice machine, users frequently have questions about its functionality, capacity, and upkeep. This popular series is adept at meeting diverse commercial demands, providing consistent, high-quality Chewblet ice. Notably, the Follett 7 Series ice machine is particularly well-suited for work spaces with up to 30 people, balancing energy efficiency with reliable output. Many questions also center around maintenance; to simplify this, Follett offers robust support, including models with convenient on-screen cleaning and sanitizing instructions and a range of instructional videos that guide users through procedures like cleaning, bin removal, and accessing internal parts, ensuring a smooth and hygienic operation.
What types of ice does the Follett 7 Series produce?
The Follett 7 Series ice machine is specifically engineered to produce one highly popular ice type: Chewblet ice. This signature ice is a soft, chewable, compressed nugget form, known for its satisfying texture and gentle feel, making it a favorite for beverages and various commercial uses. While the broader Follett product line offers different ice types like flake or cube ice, the Follett 7 Series ice machine consistently specializes in this unique Chewblet nugget. This focus means buyers should consider if their needs specifically align with the benefits of chewable nugget ice, as this series does not offer other traditional ice forms.
How much ice can the Follett 7 Series produce daily?
The Follett 7 Series ice machine is designed to produce a substantial amount of ice daily, with its capacity topping out at 125 pounds (54.4 kg) of soft, chewable Chewblet ice. However, it’s vital to recognize that this impressive figure represents a theoretical maximum achieved under ideal, continuous operating conditions over 24 hours. Factors like ambient air and water temperatures directly affect real-world output; for instance, specific models like the E7CI100A might yield 54.4 kilograms daily in cooler settings, but this can decrease to approximately 40.8 kilograms in warmer environments. To ensure you never run short, especially during peak demand, a helpful strategy is to select a Follett 7 Series ice machine that produces approximately double your anticipated daily consumption. This planning accounts for both environmental variability and the distinction between the machine’s maximum daily production and its immediate 7-pound storage capacity, guaranteeing a reliable supply of fresh ice.
What sanitation features are included in the Follett 7 Series?
The Follett 7 Series ice machine incorporates several advanced sanitation features to maintain a clean and safe ice supply. These include clean light technology in the dispense area, which actively helps keep the ice delivery point hygienic. Many models also feature an internal UV light designed to improve the cleanliness of the water reservoir. Complementing these are Agion® silver-based antimicrobial protection applied to key ice and water contact components, working to minimize the growth of bacteria and biofilm. An additional layer of sanitation comes from replaceable antimicrobial shields on the dispense interface, further reducing the chance of contamination during use, making the Follett 7 Series a leader in ice hygiene.
Are Follett 7 Series machines energy efficient?
Yes, Follett 7 Series machines are indeed highly energy efficient, a key benefit that helps reduce operating costs and environmental impact. While already known for consuming less water and power than comparable units, these machines also boast specific features to enhance their efficiency. For example, models like the Follett 7 Series Countertop Ice & Water Dispenser (E7CI100A) include an energy-saving sleep mode, allowing for quiet ice production without the typical noisy harvest cycles during off-peak hours. Many Follett 7 Series ice machine variants, such as the Champion 7 Undercounter and Countertop Ice Dispensers, are also ENERGY STAR® rated. This important certification confirms they meet rigorous energy performance standards, offering tangible utility savings and contributing to a lower carbon footprint for businesses.
Where can I find authorized Follett 7 Series dealers?
To find authorized dealers for your Follett 7 Series ice machine, the most reliable starting point is always the official Follett Corporation website. Most manufacturers, including Follett, provide an online “Dealer Locator” or “Find a Distributor” tool where you can enter your location to discover certified partners nearby. This ensures you connect with sellers who not only offer genuine products but also provide crucial factory-trained installation and warranty support. While some online retailers may claim to sell these units, using Follett’s official locator helps confirm a dealer’s authorization, safeguarding your investment with proper service and authentic parts.
About Us and Our Expertise on Ice Makers and Ice Cream Makers
At theicemakerhub.com, we are a team of dedicated Ice Cream Equipment Specialists and ice maker authorities, offering expert advice and robust solutions across the entire spectrum of frozen dessert equipment. Our expertise encompasses everything from leading commercial ice makers, such as the efficient Follett 7 Series ice machine highlighted on this page, to a diverse range of ice cream machines. This includes professional units that enable restaurants and bars to enrich their menus with artisanal ice creams, fresh sorbets, semifreddos, and granitas, as well as home ice cream makers like the Gelato Expert and Whynter models that simplify creating smooth, flavorful frozen treats at home. We pride ourselves on providing integrated solutions and reliable guidance to meet both commercial and personal ice-making needs.
Follett 7 Series Ice Maker: Essential Information for Buyers
For buyers considering a Follett 7 Series ice machine, it’s essential to first confirm your exact application and end-use, whether for a commercial setting, office, or home, as models are designed for varying environments. You’ll need to match the unit’s daily ice production and its 7 pounds of immediate ice storage capacity with your specific user ice needs, remembering that while the series can deliver up to 125 pounds of Chewblet ice daily, some specific models like the 7CI112A-HW-CL-ST-00 are rated for 100 pounds. Carefully assess available user space to choose between countertop, undercounter, or freestanding models, leveraging the drainless design for flexible placement anywhere with ease.
Beyond these fundamental needs, buyers should also look at desired features like filtered, great-tasting ice and the innovative sparkling water dispensing option available on some Follett 7 Series Ice Dispenser models. While upfront costs vary, factoring in the energy-efficient design helps reduce long-term operational expenses. Most critically, always discuss with your supplier the comprehensive warranty terms, spare parts availability, and service support during the quote process to ensure a reliable and supported investment.
Follett Ice Machine: Brand Overview and Product Line Insights
Follett stands as a prominent manufacturer in the ice machine industry, widely recognized for its dedication to producing high-quality, automated ice-making machines designed for diverse commercial and institutional applications. Beyond popular individual units like the versatile Follett 7 Series ice machine, the brand offers a comprehensive product line that extends to various configurations, including nugget-style ice makers, such as their robust D1010R Horizon Elite Ice Machine and D1410R Horizon Elite Ice Machine, as well as efficient undercounter ice machines. This broad selection ensures that whether a business requires high-volume production for a hospital or a compact solution for an office, Follett has a machine built to meet those specific demands. Furthermore, a crucial insight into the brand’s commitment is its extensive availability of genuine Follett Ice Machine Parts, which underscores their focus on the long-term reliability and serviceability of their entire equipment range.
Follett Ice Machine Price: What to Expect When Budgeting for Purchase
When budgeting for a Follett ice machine, it’s vital to recognize that the price extends beyond the initial sticker cost. While previous content details starting prices for the Follett 7 Series ice machine (e.g., countertop units around $4,272.00 and floor-undercounter models at approximately $5,696.00), a realistic budget must encompass the total cost of ownership. This comprehensive approach means factoring in installation costs for commercial ice machines, potential shipping fees (which can add around $200.00), and ongoing maintenance supplies (like cleaner starting at $48.75). More critically, buyers should include the cost of water filtration, drainage, and electrical systems, as these are essential infrastructure components for full operation. Establishing a budget requires striking a balance between upfront costs and long-term savings, ensuring the machine’s functionality aligns with your business’s financial landscape rather than overspending on features beyond your core needs.