Ice Machine Refrigerant Types UK: Which Gas Does Your Machine Use?
Commercial ice machines in UK bars, restaurants and hotels use a range of refrigerants. Knowing the correct type is essential for legal F-Gas compliance and correct service.
Common Refrigerants in UK Ice Machines
- R134a (GWP 1,430): Most common in smaller cube, crescent and nugget machines. Self-contained units typically 200–600 g charge. Good performance at ice machine condensing conditions.
- R404A (GWP 3,922): Used in larger commercial ice machines needing lower evaporating temperatures (flake ice, large-capacity cube).
- R290 propane (GWP 3): Increasingly used in new energy-efficient models (Hoshizaki, Scotsman). A3-rated — typically <150 g charge per circuit.
- R448A/R449A: Some newer machines use these as R404A replacements.
How to Identify Your Ice Machine Refrigerant
- Check the data plate inside the front panel or on the rear — specifies refrigerant type and charge weight
- The service manual confirms refrigerant and service port locations
- R290 machines are usually labelled with a flame warning symbol
F-Gas Compliance
Most ice machines have charges below 5 tCO2e (300 g R134a = 0.43 tCO2e), so periodic leak checks are not legally required. However, F-Gas Category I or II certification is still required to purchase and handle refrigerant. R290 machines require A3 competency training and A3-rated recovery equipment.
R134a 13.6 kg and R404A 10.9 kg from Refrigerant Gas Supplies Ltd — F-Gas compliant, next-day UK delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do ice machines need F-Gas leak checks?
Most are below 5 tCO2e (300 g R134a = 0.43 tCO2e) so formal periodic checks are not required. F-Gas certification is still needed to purchase and handle refrigerant.
Can I service an ice machine without F-Gas certification?
No — any work on the refrigerant circuit requires certification. Uncertified handling is an offence under UK F-Gas Regulation.
How often should a commercial ice machine be serviced?
Annually for food service use — cleaning, descaling, condenser clean, refrigerant check and production rate test.