The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Second Hand Ice Cream Maker (2024)
If you dream of serving creamy soft serve or artisan gelato—without breaking the bank—a second hand ice cream maker is your golden ticket. Used and refurbished ice cream machines make it possible for entrepreneurs, café owners, or home enthusiasts to craft frozen treats affordably. But with so many brands, types, and marketplaces like www.machinio.com, slicesconcession.com, www.machineseeker.com, www.bestbuy.com, and others, how do you choose wisely? This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about buying a second hand ice cream maker—from commercial workhorses to home scooping wonders.
Comparison of Second Hand Ice Cream Maker Types & Applications
| Type | Applications | Output Style | Typical Users | Key Features | Example Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Serve Machine | Cones, cups | Soft, swirled ice cream | Cafés, fast food, events | High volume, 1-3 flavors | www.icemachineclearance.com, www.machinio.com |
| Batch Freezer | Tubs, scoops | Hard/gelato/frozen yogurt | Gelaterias, artisanal shops | Multiple dessert types, versatile | www.cityfoodequipment.com, www.machineseeker.com |
| Home Ice Cream Maker | Small batch | Varied—depends on model | Home users, small events | Easy use, compact, lower price | www.bestbuy.com, www.gumtree.com |
| Shake/Combination Machine | Shakes & soft serve | Soft serve & shakes | Diners, dessert chains | Multiple frozen beverages | slicesconcession.com, www.machinio.com |
| Countertop Maker | Compact counter | Soft or hard | Food trucks, markets, cafés | Small footprint, mobile | www.gumtree.co.za, losangeles.craigslist.org |
Why Choose a Second Hand Ice Cream Maker?
Buying a new ice cream maker can set you back thousands of dollars. Second hand and refurbished units offer premium performance at a fraction of the cost. Many former owners, especially from businesses, maintain their equipment for reliability, making the used market a treasure trove. Sites like www.machinio.com and www.bestbuy.com offer a wide range of inspected units.
Beyond cost savings, the second hand route often allows access to higher-end brands or models you might not afford otherwise. You also help the environment by reusing machinery, reducing manufacturing demand. When sourced from reputable dealers such as www.icemachineclearance.com or www.cityfoodequipment.com, you benefit from thorough inspections, sanitization, and warranties—crucial for commercial success.
Types of Second Hand Ice Cream Makers
When shopping the used market, you’ll encounter a variety of machine types. Each suits different needs:
Soft Serve Machines
These high-output machines churn out creamy, swirled soft serve in seconds. They are staples in fast food outlets and busy cafés. Used models like Taylor or Electrofreeze, found on www.icemachineclearance.com and www.machinio.com, provide significant value and high profit margins.
Batch Freezers
Ideal for making gelato, classic hard ice cream, or sorbet in bulk, batch freezers are the choice of premium and artisan parlors. Expect more versatility—these machines, often sold on www.machineseeker.com and www.cityfoodequipment.com, allow creativity in flavors and textures.
Shake & Combination Machines
These dual-purpose wonders deliver both shakes and soft serve, making them perfect for diners or dessert shops with diverse menus. Brands such as Waring are regularly listed on www.machinio.com.
Home & Countertop Makers
For smaller environments or home use, compact makers found on www.bestbuy.com, www.gumtree.com, and losangeles.craigslist.org are ideal. These offer simplicity and ease, delivering delicious frozen desserts in smaller batches.
Key Considerations When Buying Second Hand
A second hand machine is only a bargain if it runs reliably. Keep these factors in mind during your search:
- Condition & Maintenance History: Ask for service records, parts replaced, and any history of repairs or breakdowns, especially when purchasing from online sources like www.gumtree.co.za or slicesconcession.com.
- Sanitization: Machines touching dairy or mix must be thoroughly cleaned. Reputable dealers like www.icemachineclearance.com sanitize and restore machines before resale.
- Warranty: A refurbished ice cream maker should come with at least a limited warranty. It’s your safety net against unforeseen repairs.
- Availability of Parts: Vintage units or lesser-known brands may have scarce parts, making repairs expensive or impossible.
- Power & Space Requirements: Commercial machines may require special electrical hookups or significant counter space.
- Intended Use: Consider your menu, target volume, and the variety of desserts you plan to offer.
Pros and Cons of Popular Marketplaces
| Marketplace | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| www.machinio.com | Huge selection, pro/commercial focus | Must arrange shipping, variable seller quality |
| slicesconcession.com | US shipping, dessert machine specialists | Mainly commercial, higher baseline prices |
| www.machineseeker.com | International options, batch freezers | Varying service support |
| www.bestbuy.com | Refurbished units, consumer-friendly | Fewer commercial choices |
| www.icemachineclearance.com | Warranty, inspection, sanitization | Primarily soft serve focus |
| www.cityfoodequipment.com | Local support, varied machines | Stock changes frequently |
| losangeles.craigslist.org | Local deals, negotiable pricing | Buyer must inspect, no warranty |
| www.gumtree.com / .co.za | Regional deals, occasional bargains | Little/no warranty, buyer beware |
Features to Evaluate Before Purchase
Shopping for a second hand ice cream maker involves a checklist:
- Compressor and Refrigerant System: Ensure cooling cycles run smoothly without excessive noise.
- Dasher/Mixer Blades: Blades should be sharp and not overly worn for consistent texture.
- Controls and Digital Interfaces: Test all buttons and screens for functionality.
- Sanitation Seals and Hoppers: Check for cracks, mold, or residue.
- Throughput Capacity: Verify the rated output matches your real service needs.
- Electrical Compatibility: Confirm the machine matches your country’s voltage.
- Portability: For food trucks or pop-ups, weight and size are crucial.
- Spare Parts Availability: Essential for non-standard or older machines.
Maintenance, Servicing, and Upgrades
Ongoing care is essential for maximum lifespan. Clean your machine daily, even more often in busy settings. Schedule periodic in-depth servicing for the motor, compressor, and seals. Many reputable resellers like www.icemachineclearance.com and www.cityfoodequipment.com offer maintenance plans or can recommend local technicians for future support.
Don’t hesitate to upgrade components such as the dasher, control boards, or hoppers if newer compatible parts are available. Technological improvements can further extend your machine’s utility and reliability.
Cost Breakdown: How Much Should You Pay?
Used ice cream makers can range from $100 for a basic home unit (as seen on www.bestbuy.com or www.gumtree.com) to $10,000+ for commercial batch freezers (common on www.machinio.com and www.machineseeker.com).
- Home/Countertop Models: $100–$400
- Small Commercial Units: $750–$2,500
- Soft Serve Machines: $2,000–$7,000
- Batch Freezers/Pro Models: $3,000–$12,000+
Remember to budget for shipping, installation, and any parts or refurbishment required.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Pre-owned ice cream makers might occasionally need troubleshooting:
- No Freezing: Check refrigerant levels or compressor health, especially in older models.
- Unusual Noises: Could indicate failing bearings or motor issues.
- Leaking: Often due to worn gaskets or seals.
- Inconsistent Texture: Dasher blades may need replacement, or mixture ratio may be off.
- Control Failures: Reset the system or replace the control board as needed.
Prompt repair prevents downtime and greater damage. Working with sources like www.icemachineclearance.com can supply replacement parts or expert advice.
Where to Find and Inspect Second Hand Ice Cream Makers
Explore online marketplaces like www.machinio.com, www.bestbuy.com, or www.cityfoodequipment.com for professionally vetted machines. Local sources such as losangeles.craigslist.org or www.gumtree.com enable in-person inspection but require more due diligence. Don’t shy away from asking sellers for maintenance logs, receipts, or a live demonstration.
When possible, bring a technician with you to evaluate the machine’s performance, especially if the purchase is significant.
Technical Comparison Table: Key Features Side by Side
| Brand/Model | Min Output | Max Output | Voltage | Size (LxWxH) | Number of Flavors | Cleaning Mode | Warranty | Typical Marketplaces |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taylor 336 (Soft Serve) | 150 cones/hr | 300 cones/hr | 220V | 26x33x60 in | 2 + twist | Automatic | Yes | www.machinio.com, www.icemachineclearance.com |
| Electrofreeze 88T-RMT | 150 cones/hr | 285 cones/hr | 208-240V | 29x34x61 in | 2 + twist | Manual | Limited | www.icemachineclearance.com, www.cityfoodequipment.com |
| Carpigiani LB100B (Batch) | 5L/batch | 20L/hr | 220V | 24x27x50 in | 1 | Manual | Varies | www.machineseeker.com |
| Cuisinart ICE-30BC | 1.5 qt | 1.5 qt | 120V | 8x11x15 in | 1 | Manual | Yes | www.bestbuy.com, www.gumtree.com |
| Southbend SB-12 | 4 qt | 12 qt | 110V | 15x12x18 in | 1 | Manual | Varies | losangeles.craigslist.org, www.gumtree.co.za |
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Conclusion
Second hand ice cream makers open the door to craft, serve, and sell frozen desserts with a remarkable return on investment. Marketplaces like www.machinio.com, www.icemachineclearance.com, www.bestbuy.com, and local platforms like losangeles.craigslist.org and www.gumtree.co.za offer tremendous variety and value. By focusing on machine type, condition, and specific business needs, you’ll find an ideal match—turning cost savings into delicious successes.
FAQ
What is a second hand ice cream maker?
A second hand ice cream maker is a previously owned machine for making frozen desserts, sold by individuals or companies. They are inspected, cleaned, and often refurbished for resale.
Where can I buy a second hand ice cream maker?
You can buy from marketplaces like www.machinio.com, www.machineseeker.com, slicesconcession.com, www.bestbuy.com, www.icemachineclearance.com, www.cityfoodequipment.com, losangeles.craigslist.org, www.gumtree.com, and www.gumtree.co.za.
Are refurbished machines better than just used ones?
Refurbished machines are professionally cleaned, repaired, and often come with a warranty, making them a safer investment than untested used models.
How do I inspect a second hand ice cream maker before buying?
Check maintenance records, test all functions (freezing, dispensing, cleaning), inspect for leaks or damage, and verify electrical compatibility.
What brands are reliable for second hand purchase?
Reputable brands include Taylor, Electrofreeze, Carpigiani, and Cuisinart, frequently available through specialized resellers.
Is it safe to buy from private sellers?
Buying from private sellers, such as those on losangeles.craigslist.org or www.gumtree.co.za, can save money but increases the risk. Perform careful inspections and try to negotiate a brief trial period.
How much does a second hand commercial machine cost?
Prices range widely depending on capacity, age, and condition—anywhere from $2,000 to over $10,000 for large commercial models.
What is the most versatile type of ice cream maker?
Batch freezers are the most versatile, producing a variety of desserts like ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and even some frozen beverages.
Can I use a commercial machine at home?
Technically yes, but commercial machines are large and may require special electrical setups. Compact or countertop models are better suited for home use.
Are replacement parts easy to find for older models?
Parts may still be available for well-known brands, but vintage or off-brand machines can be challenging and expensive to maintain.
