How to Correctly Install and Use a Frosty Factory Machine

Since inventor Dolph Williams founded the company in 1982, Frosty Factory's machines have been serving up daiquiris, margaritas, and slushies anywhere there is demand for alcoholic or non-alcoholic frozen drinks. When used correctly, these machines will give operators a reliable, easy-to-use solution for reaching the high-demand frozen drink segment. Incorrect use, though, can lead to less than optimal results and even equipment failure.

Frosty Factory margarita machines are available in three cooling formats, indicating the method of cooling with a letter in the model number. Model numbers are followed by the letter "R" for remote-cooled units, "W" for water-cooled units, or "A" for air-cooled units, with the exception of 215F, an air-cooled floor unit.

• Remote-cooled units use a compressor located in an exterior location.
• Water-cooled units use a water connection along with a drain or recirculation system.
• Air-cooled machines use an air compressor located in the unit to cool the drink mix.

This guide informs users of installation and use requirements for air-cooled machines and then offers solutions to common problems faced by users of any Frosty Factory margarita machine.

Air-cooled margarita machines are the most common choice for operations that don't require high volumes of drinks because of their affordability and easy installation. Users should be aware of space limitations that come with the convenience, though.

Frosty Factory has built brand recognition by placing its quality drink machines in tourist areas and large stadiums. These machines are often lined up in succession and packed tightly together, attracting customers with endless options of readily available flavors. For business owners attempting to emulate this setup, it is important to realize these machines are cooled remotely or by a recirculating water system.

Since air-cooled Frosty Factory machines have intake and exhaust vents for a local compressor, they require space to breathe. They offer simplicity and the same quality product as their remote- and water-cooled siblings, but if you plan on placing machines in close proximity to each other, consider upgrading to one of the other methods of cooling.

Recommended clearance requirements for air-cooled units ensure the machine can freeze down the mix properly without being overworked. Heat from any source will increase the work required by the compressor, so Frosty Factory recommends additional space in areas affected by it. Since air-cooled machines are heat producing themselves, placing them next to each other will double the recommended clearance.

The following table gives clearance requirements per machine, meaning two machines placed next to each other that each have a 12-inch clearance requirement will require 24 inches of space between them.

Failing to give proper clearance can lead to mix that is runny instead of slushie and compressors pulling higher amperage from the power source, causing potential motor or compressor failure.

Clearance Requirement Per Machine

Installation steps

Frosty Factory air-cooled machines are designed for quick and easy installation. Follow these steps to get your machine up and running.

1. Unpack your unit, take inventory of parts and accessories, and inspect for damage that may have been caused by shipping.
2. Place your unit on a platform that can support its weight. (Does not apply to 215F) Consider both the weight of the unit and the weight of the product when it is filled to capacity. Use a level and turn the adjustable part of the leg to ensure the unit is level on its platform front-to-back and side-to-side.
3. Allow adequate space for ventilation while also keeping 12 inches of clearance for access to the hopper, which is usually at the top of the machine.
4. Place the power switch to the center "off" position and connect the power cord. Use a properly grounded, dedicated outlet that is 30 amps for the 215F model and 20 amps for other models. Don't share the outlet with any other device. Avoid extension cords if possible and don't use a grounding adapter.
5. Install essential parts, including the drip tray, cover, beater bard, and faceplate assemblies.
6. Follow the simple startup instructions located in your service manual to fill the hopper with mix, freeze, and enjoy! Consult cleaning and preventive maintenance instructions in your machine's service manual to keep it running efficiently.

Other Common Problems and Considerations

• Problem: Machine is "walking," or traveling, potentially falling off the counter or toppling other machines.

  Solution: Machines are designed to operate with an ample supply of product. Keep your unit filled to at least half capacity when in use.

• Problem: Customers aren't purchasing products that include dairy or fruit fast enough to keep them from spoiling.

  Solution: Purchase a unit that keeps unfrozen mixes at 40 degrees Fahrenheit using a refrigerated hopper. This option is available on several Frosty Factory models.

• Problem: Product is left over at the end of the day.

  Solution: Use the standby switch to keep the freezing cylinder refrigerated overnight, enabling quick refreezing without the power drain that comes with keeping it frozen all night.

• Problem: The machine is installed properly but is forming ice crystals or taking too long to freeze the mix.

  Solution: Keep mixes at between 12 and 18 brix of sugar content to maintain product consistency. A low sugar content will cause large ice crystals to form, and a high content will take too long to freeze.

  Alternate solution: Alcohol content will also cause longer freeze times. Don't attempt to freeze a mix that contains more than 25% alcohol.

  Alternate Solution: The condenser may be dirty. Follow preventive maintenance instructions to keep the condenser clean.

Additional Notes

• Because of differences in compressor size and format, freezing cylinder size, and hopper size, machine capacity and servings per day vary significantly. Consult our capacity chart to find a machine that fits your requirements.
• Find product details and service manuals on Frosty Factory's information page.