Ice dispensers

An ice dispenser for storing and dispensing ice, the ice dispenser comprising:

• a holding bin configured for storing ice;
• a spout operatively coupled to the holding bin for dispensing ice from the holding bin;
• a sensor configured to determine a level of the ice within the holding bin;
• and
• a controller and an indicator configured to generate an indicator for a user, the controller being operatively coupled to the sensor and the indicator, wherein the controller is configured to compare the level of the ice within the holding bin to a threshold level and to control the indicator based on the comparison of the level to the threshold level so as to indicate when additional ice is needed in the holding bin.

An ice dispenser for storing and dispensing ice, the ice dispenser comprising:

• a holding bin extending longitudinally between a first side and a second side, transversely between a third side and a fourth side, and vertically between a top to a bottom;
• a chute configured to guide the ice from outside the holding bin into the holding bin, wherein the chute has an upper end and an opposite lower end, and wherein the upper end of the chute extends longitudinally farther than the first side of the holding bin from the second side of the holding bin;
• a cold plate positioned below the holding bin, the cold plate including a beverage line configured to be cooled via the ice from the holding bin;
• a spout operatively coupled to the holding bin for dispensing ice from the holding bin;
• a cover that encloses the top of the holding bin, the cover having a lid for selectively opening a portion of the cover to access the holding bin, wherein the lid is pivotally coupled via a pair of hinge arms that remain parallel to each other as the lid is moved between a closed position in which access to the holding bin is blocked and an open position in which the holding bin is accessible;
• a sensor configured to determine a level of the ice within the holding bin, wherein the sensor is hidden under the cover and accessible by removal thereof;
• and
• a controller and a light, the controller being operatively connected to both the sensor and the light, wherein the controller is configured to compare the level of the ice within the holding bin to a threshold level and to control the light based on the comparison of the level to the threshold level so as to indicate when additional ice is needed in the holding bin.