Hoshizaki Snowflake vs. Premier:
Which series suits your kitchen?
Both are professional Hoshizaki refrigerators. Both are reliable. The difference lies in the environment in which they are to be operated.
By JMGT Commercial Kitchen Equipment · Hoshizaki Specialist
Comparison at a glance
| Criterion | Snowflake | Premier |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerant | R290 (propane) | R600a or HC |
| Recommended in heat | ✓ Excellent | Good at normal temp. |
| GN 2/1 compatible | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Foot pedal standard | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Mono-block technology | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Price | Slightly higher | Lowest entry price |
| Best for | Hot kitchen, energy efficiency | Restaurant, daily use |
Snowflake
R290 · Energy efficientThe Snowflake is the choice when your refrigerator stands next to a cooking line, in a poorly ventilated space or in a hot production environment. R290 as refrigerant delivers stable performance even at high ambient temperatures and noticeably reduces energy consumption.
Suited for
Premier
Universal standardThe Premier is the most commonly chosen refrigerator in the Dutch and UK hospitality sector. GN 2/1 compatible, foot pedal standard, easy to clean. For restaurants, hotels and catering kitchens with normal ambient temperatures, the Premier is the reliable standard.
Suited for
Why R290 makes the difference
R290 (propane) is a natural refrigerant with a GWP of 3 – 700 times lower than common synthetic refrigerants. Beyond the environmental benefit, this has two practical consequences for your operation.
Energy savings
Units with R290 consume significantly less electricity thanks to the better thermodynamic properties of the refrigerant. This noticeably reduces your running costs – especially in continuous operation.
Stable in heat
R290 has excellent thermodynamic properties, meaning the compressor has to work less hard in a hot environment. This results in a longer service life and lower energy consumption.
Prices and availability
JMGT stocks Hoshizaki Snowflake and Premier from its own warehouse. Common models are immediately available, in urgent cases often within 24–48 hours.
Premier
from €2,736 excl. VAT
Snowflake
On request
Prices excl. VAT. Delivery and installation on request. No Rational prices – Hoshizaki from stock.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important difference between Snowflake and Premier?
The Snowflake uses R290 as refrigerant and is specifically built for warm kitchen environments next to cooking equipment. The Premier is the universal standard for daily use in restaurants and catering kitchens at normal temperatures.
Can the Premier stand next to a cooking line?
The Premier performs well under normal conditions. In a hot kitchen directly next to an oven or open flame, the Premier works harder and wears faster than the Snowflake. For these situations the Snowflake is the better choice.
What does a Hoshizaki refrigerator cost?
JMGT stocks Hoshizaki refrigerators from its own warehouse. Prices start from €2,736 excl. VAT for a Premier. The Snowflake is somewhat higher. Request a no-obligation quote.
Why is R290 beneficial for a commercial kitchen?
R290 (propane) is a natural refrigerant with a GWP of 3 – 700 times lower than common synthetic refrigerants. It delivers stable performance at high ambient temperatures and results in lower energy consumption and longer compressor service life.
Not sure which series suits your situation?
JMGT stocks Snowflake and Premier from its own warehouse. Direct delivery with installation. Book a kitchen check or request a quote.