Imagine hosting a backyard barbecue. The sun is hot, your guests are laughing, and the drinks are flowing. But wait – the ice in your cooler is melting fast! Nothing ruins a perfect outdoor gathering like warm drinks. Finding a reliable way to keep the ice coming when you’re outside can feel like a real chore. Do you keep running inside to the kitchen? That breaks the fun!
Choosing the perfect outdoor undercounter ice maker adds a touch of luxury and convenience to your patio or outdoor kitchen. However, the market is flooded with models. How do you pick one that resists weather, fits your space, and makes enough ice for your parties? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by features like stainless steel finishes, production rates, and drainage needs.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what you need to look for in an outdoor ice maker. You will learn about durability, capacity, and installation tips so you can buy with confidence. Get ready to say goodbye to lukewarm lemonade forever!
Top Outdoor Undercounter Ice Maker Recommendations
- High-Capacity Ice Production: This commercial ice maker produces up to 100 pounds of ice daily and features a 30-pound storage capacity with a large removable ice bin, ideal for busy households, large events, or commercial spaces like bars and offices. Whether you’re chilling iced tea, displaying fresh seafood, or blending smoothies, it delivers a steady supply of slow-melting, odorless ice that keeps drinks cold and refreshing without dilution
- Easy Accessibility: Equipped with an intuitive control panel for simple operation, along with water shortage and ice full alerts to prompt you to check the water source in time. A convenient ice scoop is included for effortless ice retrieval, helping keep your ice clean and protected from contamination. You can also customize ice thickness with adjustable settings (thin/medium/thick) ideal for cocktails, whiskey, or milkshakes
- Space-Saving & Flexible Installation: Designed to fit seamlessly into a 15-inch cabinet, this undercounter ice machine integrates smoothly into any kitchen layout. Its versatile installation options, including under counter, freestanding, or built-in setups, offer the flexibility to adapt to your space requirements while adding a sleek, modern touch to your kitchen
- Low-Maintenance and Durability: Enjoy simple maintenance with the one-click self-cleaning function, which thoroughly cleans the unit effortlessly, ensuring the clear ice cube maker operates at peak efficiency for longer. Enhanced thickened insulation technology keeps ice frozen solid for up to 8 hours, preserving its optimal chill and freshness while reducing energy consumption
- Versatile and Reliable Safety: ETL-certified for both reliability and safety, this under counter ice machine comes with a removable filter system that enhances the taste and clarity of ice cubes. It operates quietly, features a built-in water inlet and outlet, and includes the necessary hoses for easy installation, making it a great fit for your patio, poolside bar, or outdoor kitchen
- Rapid & Large Ice Production: Our ice maker can produce 100lbs clear ice cubes one day, the average ice making time for each cycle just taking 8 to 16mins, which means that the under counter ice maker can meet your demand for ice efficiently, and let you enjoy the tasty ice cubes easily
- Efficient & Adjustable Ice Cubes: Equipped with an efficient compressor and 3 layer insulation materials, the ice cubes that our under counter ice maker machine produce are clear and refresh, besides, you can also control the thickness of the ice cubes through the button to meet the need of various drinks, like smoothie/cocktail/whisky for daily use. These perfect cubes are ideal for bartending and home hosting
- Simple & User-friendly Design: Because of the LCD panel, there is no need to worry about the machine's operation, and the ice maker also have the reminder of water shortage and ice full, help you replenish water or remove ice cubes promptly, and the design of reversible door also give you the flexible choice to decide which direction to open the door. It comes with an ice scoop so you can easily fill a cup or grab a few cubes directly from the freezer
- Auto-cleaning & Timer Function: Considering the preciousness of your time, we have equipped our under counter ice machine with automatic cleaning, so you can easily clean your ice maker machine by just hold the "Clean" button for 5s, helps maintain the under counter ice maker machine's efficiency and longevity and the 24H Timer function can also help you to make ice according to your schedule
- Wondeful Size & Customer Service: With the size of 20.4"D x 14.96"W x 33.9"H, there are two types of setting style for you to choose, individual placed or under counter, if you have any questions while using the ice maker, please reach out to us promptly, and we will strive to provide you with help
- Advanced & Fast Ice Making: Our commercial under counter ice maker machine can produce 90 lbs of ice in 24 hours, providing 40 clear ice cubes every 10-18 minutes for you and your family. The 24 lb storage container ensures a constant supply of ice, meeting all your daily ice needs for your home, restaurant, bar, or hotel.
- Compact Design: The built-in design with dimensions of 14.96 x 18.47 x 33.99 inches (including adjustable feet) makes it perfect for any standard height kitchen or bar counter, while also allowing the ice maker to be used as a standalone unit.
- Reversible Door & Cold Insulation: The stainless steel ice maker machine door with a handle can be installed with left or right hinges, allowing you to choose the opening direction according to your needs. The 3-layer housing material ensures longer-lasting ice cubes, preventing them from melting quickly.
- Smart LCD Control Panel & Customizable Ice Thickness: The multifunctional control panel displays the ambient temperature and allows you to adjust the ice cube size by changing the ice-making time. The 24-hour timer function lets you set the machine to start or stop running at your convenience.
- Easy-to-Clean & Prolonged Life: The self-cleaning function, activated by pressing the "Timer Clean" button for 5 seconds, helps maintain the ice maker's efficiency and longevity. We recommend cleaning the machine regularly according to usage. The ice maker requires a water supply . Be sure to keep the machine upright for at least 24 hours before using it.
- High Efficiency Ice Making and Storage: This 15 inch wide stainless steel under counter ice maker can produce an astonishing 130 pounds of ice per day and store up to 30 pounds. It can be installed both indoors and outdoors. With its front vented design and forced air refrigeration system, it offers an efficient and stable ice making experience. Ideal for fridge owners, entertainers, bartenders, connoisseurs, or those looking to save space.
- Customizable Ice Cube Sizes: Choose from three ice cube sizes to meet various needs. Whether it's for making cocktails, filling coolers, or entertaining the family during Thanksgiving, this built - in ice maker is an excellent choice. Its slim design, measuring only 15''W × 21''D × 33''H, fits easily into narrow spaces. The 3 - layer housing material keeps ice cubes from melting quickly.
- User Friendly LCD Digital Control Panel: Operate this ice maker effortlessly via the user friendly control panel. The bright LED lights allow you to check the ice making status at any time. An ice scoop is included for easy ice serving to guests or personal use. Remember to keep the machine upright for at least 24 hours before use.
- Direct Drainage, No Leaking: A gravity drain.Your selection of one will be based on the installation location. You’ll need to connect the water line to the kitchen water supply and run the drain hose into the floor drain before plugging the machine in. If you need to use an external pump to drain water, please purchase the pump yourself and make sure the pump is below the floor level of the ice machine.
- Water Filtration and Self Cleaning Function: This commercial under counter ice maker comes with an inline filter that removes sediment from water before freezing, enhancing the taste and smell of ice. Combined with the self cleaning function, it ensures that the ice remains crisp and clear. Special cleaners are also provided. To maintain optimal performance, clean the ice maker at least once every six months. Certified by ETL and DOE.
- High Efficiency Ice Making and Storage: This 15 inch wide stainless steel under counter ice maker can produce an astonishing 80 pounds of ice per day and store up to 30 pounds. It can be installed both indoors and outdoors. With its front vented design and forced air refrigeration system, it offers an efficient and stable ice making experience. Ideal for fridge owners, entertainers, bartenders, connoisseurs, or those looking to save space.
- Customizable Ice Cube Sizes: Choose from three ice cube sizes to meet various needs. Whether it's for making cocktails, filling coolers, or entertaining the family during Thanksgiving, this built - in ice maker is an excellent choice. Its slim design, measuring only 15''W × 21''D × 33''H, fits easily into narrow spaces. The 3 - layer housing material keeps ice cubes from melting quickly.
- User Friendly LCD Digital Control Panel: Operate this ice maker effortlessly via the user friendly control panel. The bright LED lights allow you to check the ice making status at any time. An ice scoop is included for easy ice serving to guests or personal use. Remember to keep the machine upright for at least 24 hours before use.
- Direct Drainage, No Leaking: A gravity drain.Your selection of one will be based on the installation location. You’ll need to connect the water line to the kitchen water supply and run the drain hose into the floor drain before plugging the machine in. If you need to use an external pump to drain water, please purchase the pump yourself and make sure the pump is below the floor level of the ice machine.
- Water Filtration and Self Cleaning Function: This commercial under counter ice maker comes with an inline filter that removes sediment from water before freezing, enhancing the taste and smell of ice. Combined with the self cleaning function, it ensures that the ice remains crisp and clear. Special cleaners are also provided. To maintain optimal performance, clean the ice maker at least once every six months. Certified by ETL and DOE.
- Large Capacity Rapid Ice Production: Our built in ice maker is a powerhouse, producing a remarkable 80 pounds of ice daily. The Coolski freestanding ice maker churns out 32 clear ice cubes every 11 to 20 minutes, ideal for both professional bartending and home entertaining. Its high output performance meets all your ice consuming needs with ease.
- Intuitive LCD Digital Control: Featuring a user friendly control panel, operating this ice maker is a breeze. The bright LED lights enable you to monitor the ice making process at any time. An included ice scoop ensures convenient ice serving for guests or personal use. Remember to let the machine stand upright for 24 hours prior to first use.
- Flexible Drainage & Ideal Under Counter Fit: A gravity drain.Your selection of one will be based on the installation location. You’ll need to connect the water line to the kitchen water supply and run the drain hose into the floor drain before plugging the machine in. With its 15''W × 21''D × 33''H built - in design, this commercial ice cube maker seamlessly fits under standard kitchen or bar counters, maximizing space utilization.
- Effortless Cleaning & Maintenance: Maintaining the ice maker is simple. Just press the "clean" button for 3 seconds to activate the self cleaning function, which helps preserve its efficiency and lifespan. Equipped with an inline filter, it removes sediment from water before freezing, enhancing ice taste and smell. Installation is nearly plug and play: connect the water supply, plug it in, and press the on button.
- Durable & Cost Efficient Design: Constructed with durable stainless steel and a food grade interior, this ice maker is built to last. The 3 - layer housing material keeps ice cubes from melting quickly. Having passed DOE & ETL energy efficiency certifications, it offers a cost effective solution for a continuous supply of ice cubes.
- HIGH CAPACITY & FAST ICE MAKING – Designed for heavy-duty usage, this commercial ice maker produces up to 100 lbs of ice per 24 hours, crafting 45 clear ice cubes per cycle in just 11-15 minutes. It features a large built-in storage bin holding 33 lbs of ice, ensuring you never run out during peak hours. The automatic overflow prevention system guarantees safe operation, making it perfect for large families, parties, or commercial settings.
- ETL CERTIFIED FOR COMMERCIAL & HOME USE – Safety and quality are paramount. Unlike standard units, the EUHOMY ice maker is ETL certified for both household and commercial applications. Its versatile design allows it to be used in indoor/outdoor kitchens, restaurants, bars, hotels, or grocery stores. Whether you are hosting a backyard BBQ or running a coffee shop, this machine delivers reliable performance.
- INTUITIVE LCD CONTROL PANEL – Take full control with the smart LCD display. It allows you to monitor the ambient temperature and adjust the ice-making time to customize the thickness of your ice cubes—thin for smoothies or thick for drinks. The panel also features a one-touch Automatic Cleaning function, simplifying maintenance and ensuring your ice is always fresh and hygienic.
- EFFICIENT COOLING & QUIET OPERATION – Equipped with a powerful yet quiet compressor, this under-counter ice machine creates ice efficiently without disrupting your environment. The advanced energy-saving technology helps reduce electricity consumption, lowering your operating costs over time. The stainless steel construction not only looks professional but also provides durability and effective heat dissipation.
- INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE TIPS – This unit utilizes Gravity Drainage (requires a floor drain or gravity outlet; strictly no pump included). Please ensure the drain hose is positioned lower than the machine specifically for optimal drainage. IMPORTANT: Before first use, keep the machine upright for at least 24 hours to let the refrigerant settle. We recommend running the self-cleaning cycle twice before consuming the first batch of ice.
- Fast Ice Making & Storage: 15”W stainless steel under the counter ice maker produces an impressive 130 pounds of ice each day, and has the capacity to store 30 pounds. Our commercial under counter ice maker machine can be installed indoors or outdoors. This ice maker is front vented and has a forced air refrigeration system. Idel for fridge owner, entertainer, bartender, connoisseur, or space saver.
- Customizable Ice Thickness: You get to choose from three cube sizes, depending on your needs. Whether you’re making cocktails, packing a cooler, or entertaining the whole family for Thanksgiving, our built in ice maker is an excellent option. This freestanding ice maker measures only 15''W × 21''D × 33''H, slim design to fit into narrow spaces. The 3-layer housing material ensures longer-lasting ice cubes, preventing them from melting quickly.
- LCD Digital Control Panel: You can control this ice maker with a user-friendly control panel and check on your ice with the help of the bright LED lights. It comes with an ice scoop so you can easily fill a bowl for your guests or grab a few cubes directly from the freezer. Be sure to keep the machine upright for at least 24 hours before using it.
- Direct Drainage, No Leaking: A gravity drain.Your selection of one will be based on the installation location. You’ll need to connect the water line to the kitchen water supply and run the drain hose into the floor drain before plugging the machine in. If you need to use an external pump to drain water, please purchase the pump yourself and make sure the pump is below the floor level of the ice machine.
- Water filter&Self-Cleaning: Our commercial under counter ice maker equipped with the inline filter, remove sediment from the water before freezing to improve taste and smell. It combined with self cleaning function, filters help your ice stay crisp and clear. We also with equipped special cleaners. In order to maintain your ice maker, you'll have to clean it at least once every six months. Ice maker machine are certified by DOE.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Outdoor Undercounter Ice Maker
An outdoor undercounter ice maker is a fantastic addition to any patio, outdoor kitchen, or bar area. It keeps the drinks flowing without you running inside constantly. Finding the right one takes a little know-how. This guide helps you pick the perfect model for your outdoor oasis.
Key Features to Look For
Good outdoor ice makers come packed with features that make life easier. Pay close attention to these specifics:
- Ice Production Rate: How much ice does it make in 24 hours? If you host big parties, aim for 50 pounds or more. For smaller gatherings, 25-30 pounds might be enough.
- Storage Capacity: This tells you how much ice the built-in bin holds. More storage means less frequent use of the machine.
- Ice Type: Most outdoor units make clear, solid “half-cube” ice. This type melts slower than nugget ice, which is great for keeping drinks cold outside.
- Self-Cleaning Function: This feature cleans the internal components automatically. It saves you time and keeps your ice fresh.
- Drainage System: Outdoor units must drain melted ice water effectively. Look for models with a built-in drain pump or an easy gravity drain setup.
Important Materials: Durability Matters Outdoors
Since these machines live outside, the materials used are very important. They face sun, rain, and temperature changes. You need tough stuff.
Stainless Steel Exterior
Always choose a unit with a durable stainless steel exterior, usually 304-grade. This material resists rust and corrosion much better than plastic or painted metal. A good exterior protects the inner workings from the weather.
Insulation Quality
The quality of the insulation inside the ice bin matters a lot. Good insulation keeps the ice frozen longer, even on a hot day, even if the machine is off. Thicker walls usually mean better insulation.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one ice maker better than another? It often comes down to the details of construction and operation.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- High Ambient Temperature Rating: Quality outdoor units are designed to work well when it is very hot (up to 100°F or more). Check the specifications for the maximum operating temperature.
- Quiet Operation: Look for decibel (dB) ratings. Lower numbers mean quieter running, which is nice when you are relaxing nearby.
- Energy Efficiency: Newer models use less energy to keep the ice frozen, saving you money on your electric bill.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Plastic Internal Components: While some parts must be plastic, too much plastic in the ice path can break down faster in UV light and heat.
- Poor Sealing: If the door or access panels are not sealed well, moisture and bugs can get inside, which reduces the quality of the ice.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about *how* you will use the ice maker. This shapes your decision.
The Entertainer: If you host large pool parties every weekend, prioritize high daily production (60+ lbs) and large storage. You want a model that can keep up with high demand.
The Casual User: If you only need ice for quiet evening drinks, a smaller, more energy-efficient model (around 30 lbs production) works perfectly. Convenience features like the self-cleaning mode become very important here because you might not use it every day.
Installation Ease: Most undercounter models need a water line hookup and a drain line. Professional installation is often recommended, but some units offer simpler hookups for DIY enthusiasts. Read reviews about installation difficulty.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Outdoor Undercounter Ice Makers
Q: Do I need a separate drain line for an outdoor ice maker?
A: Yes, usually. Melted ice water must go somewhere. Some units have a small pump to push water out, while others rely on gravity draining into a nearby floor drain or condensate pump.
Q: Can I use a regular indoor ice maker outside?
A: No, you should not. Indoor units are not built to handle the high heat and humidity outside. They will break down quickly or fail to produce ice effectively.
Q: How much clearance do I need around the unit?
A: Check the manual, but most need a few inches of space around the sides and back for proper ventilation. Good airflow prevents overheating.
Q: How long does it take for the ice maker to start producing ice?
A: After initial setup and water connection, most units take between 3 to 12 hours to make their first full batch of ice.
Q: What is the difference between “clear ice” and “cloudy ice”?
A: Clear ice is made slowly, pushing out air bubbles. Cloudy ice is made quickly, trapping air. Outdoor units usually make slightly cloudy ice because speed is important.
Q: Is the stainless steel finish truly weatherproof?
A: High-quality 304 stainless steel is highly weather-resistant. However, even the best steel can show wear if constantly exposed to harsh chemicals or salt air without cleaning.
Q: Can I install this under a standard countertop?
A: Yes, that is what “undercounter” means. Just make sure the top clearance space matches what the manufacturer requires for heat dissipation.
Q: How often do I need to clean the filter?
A: If you use filtered water, you might only clean the main system every 6 months. If your tap water is hard, you may need to run a cleaning cycle more often.
Q: What happens if the power goes out?
A: If the power goes out, the ice will melt. When power returns, the machine restarts and begins making ice again. No damage usually occurs.
Q: Are these units noisy when running?
A: Modern outdoor units are much quieter than older models. Look for ratings under 50 dB if noise is a concern for your outdoor living space.

Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!