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Hi there, I'm Jarvis! I see you're looking at the Commercial Ice Maker | Self-contained Ice Cuber | 18kg Capacity | Simag SDH18AS. How can I help you with the technical specs or suitability for your business today?

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Simag In Stock

Commercial Ice Maker | Self-contained Ice Cuber | 18kg Capacity | Simag SDH18AS

SKU: PL-SDH18AS
£828.99 / exc vat
£994.79/ inc vat
  • High-Grade Steel Body
  • Vertical Pump System
  • Built-in Cleaning System
  • Front Facing Air Vents

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Product Overview

Here we have the Simag SDH18AS, a proper little workhorse for any business that needs a reliable, no-nonsense supply of ice. It’s a compact and  self-contained unit, which means it neatly tucks under a counter without a fuss, making it perfect for places where space is at a premium. Designed for the daily grind of a busy establishment, it quietly gets on with the job, churning out crystal-clear, thimble-shaped ice cubes that are perfect for chilling drinks quickly.

This brilliant bit of kit is aimed squarely at small to medium-sized cafés, village pubs, boutique hotels, and  restaurants that need a steady flow of ice without the footprint of a massive machine. The Simag SDH18AS ice machine is built from high-grade stainless steel, so it’s tough enough to handle the knocks of a commercial kitchen and  dead easy to wipe down. With its low energy and  water consumption, it’s also kinder on your utility bills, which is always a bonus.

What really sets this commercial ice cuber machine apart is its focus on simplicity and  efficiency. From the straightforward controls to the built-in cleaning system, everything is designed to save you time and  hassle. If you’re tired of running out of ice during a busy service or dealing with a clunky, unreliable old machine, this self-contained ice maker with its 18kg capacity could be just the ticket for a smoother, cooler operation.

Key Features and  Benefits

  • High-Grade Steel Body: Built to last and  incredibly easy to keep clean.
  • Vertical Pump System: Ensures reliable performance and  reduces chances of blockages.
  • Built-in Cleaning System: Saves you precious time on maintenance and  ensures hygiene.
  • Front Facing Air Vents: Offers flexible undercounter placement without needing side clearance.
  • Low Power Consumption: Keeps your electricity bills down without sacrificing performance.
  • Low Water Consumption: An eco-friendly choice that also saves on water costs.
  • Easy-to-Use Controller: Simple, intuitive operation for any member of your staff.
  • Thimble Shaped Cubes: Hollow cubes cool drinks faster, delighting your customers.

Technical Specifications

  • Brand: Simag
  • SKU: SDH18AS
  • Dimensions: 554 x 334 x 457 mm (H x W x D)
  • Ice Production: Up to 18kg per 24 hours
  • Power: 280W / 13 amp supply (standard UK plug)
  • Weight: 28 kg
  • Material: High grade 441 Stainless Steel
  • Cooling: Air-cooled
  • Refrigerant: R290
  • Water Consumption: Low
  • Ice Type: Hollow, thimble shaped cubes

Expert Review and  Insights

The Simag SDH18AS is a cracking example of smart design for the modern, compact commercial space. It doesn't try to be flashy; it just delivers consistent, quality ice with impressive efficiency. Its slim profile is a real win for venues like city-centre bars or cafés where every inch of floor space counts. A solid, dependable choice.

Liam Sinclair – Refrigeration Expert View Profile →

  • Pros: Its slender, undercounter-friendly build makes it ideal for tight kitchens and  bars.
  • Cons: The 18kg daily output might be stretched during exceptional peak demand periods.

Case Study: Real Business, Real Results

The Old Boathouse, a bustling riverside pub in York, needed to replace its noisy and  inefficient old ice machine that was constantly failing during the busy summer tourist season.

"We were buying in bags of ice almost every weekend, which was a nightmare for costs and  logistics. The Simag is quiet, keeps up with demand effortlessly, and  the built-in cleaning is a huge time-saver for my staff. It’s just been a solid, reliable performer from day one."

Robert Davies – Pub Landlord

Since installation, the pub has completely eliminated the need for emergency ice purchases, saving an estimated £200 a month during peak season.

Installation and  Maintenance Guide

Setting It Up

  • Ensure the machine is placed on a firm, level surface to prevent vibrations.
  • Leave at least 15cm of clearance around the back and  sides for proper air circulation, though the front vents allow for tight undercounter fitting.
  • Connect to a potable cold water supply and  ensure a gravity drain is available nearby and  lower than the machine's outlet.
  • Before first use, run a full cleaning cycle as instructed in the manual to sanitise the system.

Keeping It Going

  • Run the built-in cleaning cycle regularly (e.g., monthly) to prevent limescale build-up and  maintain ice quality.
  • Wipe down the stainless steel exterior with a soft, damp cloth and  a suitable cleaner to keep it looking smart.
  • Regularly check and  clean the air filter to ensure the condenser doesn't overheat, maintaining efficiency.
  • Empty and  clean the ice storage bin once a week to ensure maximum hygiene.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Catering Ice Cuber Machine

Not sure which ice machine is the perfect fit for your business? Here are a few key things to consider.

1. Cube Shape & Size

This Simag makes hollow, thimble-shaped cubes. They have a larger surface area, meaning they cool drinks down much faster – brilliant for busy bars and  cafés.

2. Production Capacity

Consider your busiest day. An 18kg machine like this is ideal for small to medium venues. If you have over 100 covers, you might need to look at a larger model.

3. Footprint & Placement

Where will it live? An undercounter model with front-facing vents, like this one, offers great flexibility as it doesn't need empty space at the sides to 'breathe'.

4. Cooling System

Air-cooled systems are the most common in the UK. They are generally simpler to install than water-cooled versions and  are very efficient in most environments.

5. Water Quality

If you're in a hard water area, investing in an external water filter is a must. It will dramatically reduce scale build-up, protecting your machine and  improving ice clarity.

6. Ease of Cleaning

Look for features like a built-in cleaning cycle and  easily removable parts. It turns a time-consuming chore into a simple, quick task for any staff member.

See all Commercial Ice Makers

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What type of ice does the Simag SDH18AS produce?

A: It produces hollow, thimble-shaped ice cubes, which are excellent for rapidly cooling beverages in bars, pubs, and  cafes.

Q: How much ice can it make in a day?

A: It has a production capacity of up to 18 kilograms of ice over a 24-hour period, ideal for small to medium-sized establishments.

Q: Can this machine be built-in under a counter?

A: Yes, absolutely. Its compact dimensions and  front-facing ventilation are specifically designed for easy undercounter installation.

Q: Does this ice maker require a drain?

A: Yes, like all commercial ice makers, it requires a permanent connection to a gravity drain to dispose of meltwater and  water from the cleaning cycle.

Q: How often do I need to run the cleaning cycle?

A: We recommend running the built-in cleaning cycle at least once a month, or more frequently if you are in a hard water area, to maintain performance and  hygiene.

Q: Is this machine noisy to run?

A: The Simag SDH18AS is designed for commercial environments and  operates at a low noise level, making it suitable for placement in or near customer areas.

Q: What is the benefit of a vertical pump?

A: A vertical pump is more resistant to issues caused by limescale and  mineral build-up, making the machine more reliable and  reducing the need for maintenance over time.

Q: What kind of power supply does it need?

A: It runs off a standard 13 amp supply, meaning you can plug it straight into a normal UK socket without any special wiring.

What Customers Are Saying

"A fantastic little machine. It's surprisingly quiet and  fits perfectly behind our bar. We haven't run out of ice once since we got it, even on a bank holiday weekend!"

Sarah Jones – The Corner Bistro, Brighton

"Really pleased with this purchase. It's efficient, easy to use and  the stainless steel finish looks very professional. My only tiny niggle is the bin could be slightly bigger."

Michael Evans – Cocktail Bar, Cardiff

"Does exactly what it says on the tin. Makes plenty of ice for our small hotel bar and  guest drinks. Simple, effective, and  doesn't cost the earth to run."

Laura Williams – Guesthouse Owner, Peak District

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The Simag Promise: Reliability in Every Cube

Beyond the impressive spec sheet, owning a Simag commercial ice maker is an investment in peace of mind. For decades, Simag has built a reputation on engineering robust, dependable equipment that stands up to the rigours of a professional kitchen. This isn't a machine designed with countless complicated features that can go wrong; it’s a focused, highly efficient workhorse. The value lies in its longevity and  its 'fit and  forget' nature. The use of high-grade components, like the vertical pump, and  the focus on simple maintenance significantly reduce the risk of costly downtime and  emergency engineer call-outs. Furthermore, by using the eco-friendly R290 refrigerant, the Simag SDH18AS not only delivers on performance but also aligns with the environmental values of a modern, forward-thinking business. It’s the kind of quiet, consistent reliability that lets you focus on your customers, not on your equipment.

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Why a Built-In Cleaning System Really Matters

You might see 'built-in cleaning system' and  think it's just a fancy button. But it's much cleverer than that. Think of it like a dishwasher cycle specifically for your ice maker's insides. Over time, water deposits (limescale) can build up in the pipes and  on the components that make the ice. This can lead to cloudy, poor-tasting ice and, eventually, a machine breakdown.

This system automates the process of circulating a cleaning solution, flushing out all that gunk without you needing to scrub away for ages. It not only guarantees more hygienic, clearer ice for your customers' drinks but also massively prolongs the life and  efficiency of the machine. It’s a simple feature that saves you hours of maintenance and  protects your investment in the long run.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Independent Coffee Shops

    A perfect undercounter ice maker for restaurants and  cafes needing a steady supply for iced lattes and  cold brews.
  • Village Pubs & Small Bars

    Keeps spirits and  soft drinks perfectly chilled without taking up valuable bar space.
  • Boutique Hotels & Guesthouses

    Provides ample ice for the bar, room service, and  guest drinks with quiet efficiency.
  • Small Restaurants & Bistros

    Ensures the kitchen and  front-of-house have a reliable source of ice for service.
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Get a constant, hassle-free supply of quality ice. Order your Simag SDH18AS Commercial Ice Maker today and  never worry about running out again.

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