In Houston, ice is not optional for many workplaces. The question is whether to own the machine or rent one with service included.
Renting
Renting avoids an upfront purchase and typically bundles cleaning and maintenance, so the machine stays sanitary and working without an internal plan.
Buying
Buying can make sense if you already have maintenance staff and a cleaning routine. You own the replacement decision and the repair calls.
Size for peak demand either way
The most common mistake is sizing by headcount instead of peak use. Summer shift changes are what empty the bin.