Opening a Soft Serve or Frozen Dessert Bar: Utilities, Footprint and Equipment Layout

Power: 110V or 220V

Most countertop gravity-fed units run on 110V / 15–20A — a standard North American outlet. Larger floor-standing and pump machines usually need 220V on a dedicated circuit. Confirm amp draw before you lease the space; a 220V machine on a 110V line will trip the breaker (see voltage guide and installation requirements).

Water and drain

Air-cooled machines need no water line, but you still need a floor drain nearby for daily rinse-down. Water-cooled models add a water supply and drain. Plan the drain within ~1.5 m of the machine.

Clearance and ventilation

• Leave 15–20 cm (6–8 in) on sides and back for airflow.
• Keep the top vent clear — do not box the machine into a closed cabinet; compressors exhaust heat.
• Ambient above ~38°C (100°F) slows freezing; keep it out of direct sun.

Footprint by type

Sample service-counter layout

1. Machine mounted at ~90 cm working height, within reach of the server.
2. Mix prep fridge (2–4°C) directly below or beside for fast hopper refills.
3. Handwash sink + 3-compartment sink within 1.5 m (US requirement for utensil washing).
4. Dedicated floor drain; wall outlet (110V) or hardwired 220V per model.
5. Dry-goods/storage behind; clear aisle for cleaning access at the rear.

New-buyer checklist

• ✓ Confirm 110V vs 220V and reserve the circuit.
• ✓ Locate a floor drain within 1.5 m.
• ✓ 15–20 cm rear/side clearance, top vent unobstructed.
• ✓ Mix fridge at 2–4°C on site.
• ✓ Read the warranty and plan first service interval.

FAQ

Related: Voltage guide · Installation requirements · Soft serve selection. See the soft serve landing page or contact us.

About AXOSPRO. We supply commercial soft serve, slush and ice machines to North American foodservice operators. US warehouse: 10–15 business days. Factory-direct units ship from our Jiangmen, China facility by sea: 30–45 days (import duties and brokerage are the buyer’s responsibility). Questions? Email axosproinfo@gmail.com. See our shipping policy and warranty.