The ICEE machine is really a complex frozen drink “manufacturing plant.” Specially formulated ICEE flavor concentrate is mixed automatically in the exact amounts with water and CO2 gas. It is then frozen under pressure, creating the original, world-famous carbonated beverage in a soft, “fluffy” texture.
Early manually-operated machines crushed the ice, after which flavored syrup was added by the operator as the drink was placed into a glass or paper cup. Modern machines add syrup (usually with neon-colored additives) to the ice in the machine so that it dispenses in ready-to-drink form. The syrup is measured into a mixing vat (or bottle) and a preset amount of water is added. This is shaken to mix the two liquids, and the mixture is then poured into an opening at the back or top of the machine. The fluid is taken into the cooling cylinder and the icing begins. Modern machines vend the mixture from an opening on the front of the machine, operated by a valve.
Most modern commercial slushie machines are enclosed in a metal cabinet due to the amount of use they receive from self-serve customers, but other models store the icy drink in a glass or plastic container attached to the top of the freezing unit. These are usually dispensed by employees and receive less abuse than the metal models. The machine includes a compressor and a sealed cooling cylinder. Slight amounts of moist slush accumulate on the side of the cylinder, and the auger removes it so additional slush may be made. Some machines that offer two flavors have double the components. The ice drink mixture is continually circulated in the storage area, either by a circular auger or plastic mixing paddles, to retain the texture of the ice mixture at a temperature that does not allow additional freezing or melting. A thermostat on the front or side of the unit allows the temperature to be changed for the perfect mix. Outside temperature and humidity influence the machine performance. While fresh slush is recommended each day, some establishments retain the original mixture for several days and keep the machine in operation through the closed hours.
Slushies (also known by the licensed names Slushee and Icee) are drinks made with flavored pulverized ice. The key distinction between a slushie and other frozen drinks is that the ice never freezes into cubes or blocks; it remains as tiny icy crystals. While most alcohol drink makers requires users to insert ice cubes into the machine to be smashed, shaved or crushed, the slushie machine uses water to create the icy slush from scratch. Small home slushee machines do not have the freezing capabilities of the commercial model. Crushed ice must be inserted to make home drinks, which do not have quite the same icy consistency as the store-bought drinks. The water is placed into the machine and it is turned on to churn. Thirty to 60 minutes are required to make the basic slush, depending on the size of the machine and the size of holding receptacle for the finished product.
Lee Grayson has worked as a freelance writer since 2000. Her articles have appeared in publications for Oxford and Harvard University presses and research publishers, including Facts On File and ABC-CLIO. Grayson holds certificates from the University of California campuses at Irvine and San Diego.
How to use an ICEE™ Slushie Machine at home?
FAQ
How does the slush machine work?
Can you use regular salt for an ICEE machine?
Why is my ICEE machine not making slush?
Can you put any drink in an ICEE machine?
What is Icee & how does it work?
When the intense summer heat strikes, a cup of Icee is what we turn to for a refreshing and cooling experience. Icee, stylized as ICEE, is a frozen carbonated drink and the flagship product of the Icee Company – an American beverage company situated in Tennessee. Join us as we take a deeper dive into Icee in this complete guide to Icee beverages.
How do I use the ICEE slushie machine?
ICEE SLUSHIE MAKING MACHINE – Instructions For Use Page 15 Using the Machine Lets Plug the ICEE SLUSHIE Machine into an appropriate mains power supply and check that it is switched on at the socket. Press the Mix/Off/Dispense switch to position I (Mix).
Where can I get an Icee Machine?
It’s not uncommon to find an ICEE machine at the gas station, your local Target, or a movie theater these days. They’re practically ubiquitous. And it may be just me, but getting an ICEE at the movies was always one of the better parts of the experience.
How many watts does an Icee slushie machine use?
Page 1 ICEE SLUSHIE MAKING MACHINE ® Instructions For Use Product Ref: 1612_V1 Voltage: 120V, 60Hz. Power: 20 Watts. Page 2 Please take the time to read these instructions carefully and keep them for future reference. They have been written to ensure you’ll be making perfect ICEE SLUSHIE in no time at all.