Imagine hosting a party. Your guests love cold drinks, but your freezer ice bin is empty! Don’t let warm drinks ruin the fun. Undercounter ice makers solve this problem perfectly. They sit neatly under your counter, out of sight, but always ready with plenty of ice.
Choosing the best one can feel overwhelming. Do you need nugget ice or standard cubes? How big should it be? These machines come in many sizes and styles. Picking the wrong one means wasted money or not enough ice when you need it most. We know you want a reliable machine that fits your space and lifestyle.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We will explore the different types, key features to look for, and easy installation tips. By the end, you will feel confident picking the perfect undercounter ice maker for your home.
Top Undercounter Ice Maker Recommendations
- Rapid Ice Production: This commercial ice maker produces up to 110 lbs of ice per day, creating 40 ice cubes every 12 to 15 minutes. The 25 lbs storage capacity provides a continuous supply of ice ready whenever you need it, such as home, coffee shop and bar.
- Compact Size & Versatile Use: With its compact size of 15" x 21.1" x 33.7" (L x W x H), this ice machine is suitable for standard-height kitchen or bar counters. The front ventilation system make it ideal for under-counter or built-in installation, while also offering the flexibility to function effortlessly as a freestanding unit.
- Automatic Cleaning Function: Hold down the “Reservation/Cleaning” button for 2 seconds to activate the pump. It will start intermittent cleaning 3 times. Equipped with a built-in water filter, this ice maker can be connected directly to your tap water, ensuring a steady supply of pure and clean ice.
- Reversible Door & Cold Insulation: The stainless steel door with a sturdy handle offers versatile installation options, allowing you to choose between left or right hinge placement for convenient access. Crafted from 3-layer housing, this ice maker effectively preserves ice cubes for extended periods, preventing rapid melting and ensuring lasting freshness.
- Intuitive Control Panel: This ice machine features a user-friendly control panel with 3 adjustable ice thickness settings: thin (12 minutes) for seafood, medium (15 minutes) for beverages, and thick (18 minutes) for longer-lasting ice. Additionally, the reservation timer can be set from 1 to 23 hours, allowing you to conveniently schedule ice production to meet your needs.
- 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 10-20 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.
- Compact 15 Inch Built-In Design: Perfect fit undercounter, in RVs, bars, or small business settings—takes up minimal space while delivering major performance.
- Powerful 90 lb/Day Production: Commercial-grade output with 40 cubes per 10–18 min cycle, plus a 26 lb storage bin—plenty of ice for parties, bars, or your home beverage setup.
- Wi-Fi Remote Control & 24-Hour Timer: Adjust ice thickness, start/stop remotely, schedule 24-hour production—all via app for smarter, hands-off convenience.
- Premium Water Filtration & Ice Taste Upgrade: Built-in activated carbon filter (ASIN: B0DG8X68ZG) removes chlorine, rust, sediment, dust, sand, scale, off-taste, color, and odors—delivers clean, great-tasting ice every time.
- Self-Clean & Smart Alerts: Easy auto-clean function plus real-time alerts—ice full or low water notifications keep operation hassle-free.
- 【Upgraded Drainless Ice Maker】This under counter ice maker is made of brushed stainless steel, which is more durable and easy to clean. The 22-pound ice storage capacity meets the needs of long-term and large-capacity ice use. The powerful freezing system ensures that the ice cubes are always kept within the range of 26.6-32°F to avoid melting.
- 【Unique Ice Shape】Our crescent ice maker is designed for you who pursue high-quality drinks. It can efficiently produce high-quality, pure, and tasteless crescent-shaped ice cubes. The unique shape and slow melting characteristics can keep drinks cool and delicious for longer, making it the perfect partner for exquisite drinks.
- 【Detailed Design】One-touch switch to start making ice cubes, just press to start the ice making process, no cumbersome settings required. The door and hinges of the ice maker are reversible, you can choose to install it on the left or right side according to your needs, and the feet have an adjustable function, which can flexibly adapt to different space layouts.
- 【Easy Installation】This drainless ice maker adopts advanced drainage-free design, completely bid farewell to cumbersome drainage pipe installation, no need to hire a plumber to install it, you only need to connect the water supply connector and power cord to start normal use. The size design of 14.9"W x 18.6"D x 33.8"H can be easily placed under most standard kitchen counters.
- 【Quality Assurance】Each built-in ice maker has passed ETL certification and meets strict ETL safety and quality certification standards, ensuring that our ice makers meet the highest industry standards in terms of safety and reliability. COTLIN also provides lifetime service support, so you can choose and use this ice maker with confidence.
- 90 lbs of Ice for Busy Service: Keep 460 iced drinks flowing through busy hours. This commercial ice maker produces 40 clear cubes every 11–20 minutes, while the 24 lb storage bin and thickened insulation keep ice cold and ready for up to 8 hours
- 3 Ice Sizes for Every Drink: Match each drink with the right chill. This commercial ice machine offers thin cubes for shaved ice and blended drinks, medium for soda and iced coffee, or thick for cocktails and spirits that benefit from slower melting
- Easy LCD Control & Self-Cleaning: Spend less time checking and cleaning. Adjust ice thickness, view ice-full and water status, or use the 24-hour timer. Hold TIMER/CLEAN for 5 seconds to start self-cleaning on this ice maker machine
- Easy 3-Step Setup: Place it your way. Connect water, drain, and power; keep drain below outlet. At 14.96 x 18.47 x 33.99 in, this undercounter commercial ice maker works built in or freestanding. Reversible door and adjustable feet ease placement
- Complete Kit & 1-Year Support: Set up and serve with confidence. This under counter ice maker includes a removable ice bin, scoop, water and drain pipes, and hardware. Keep it upright for 24 hours before first use; 1-year product support is included
- High Ice Production: Produces up to 120 lbs of ice per day, delivering 6000+ ice cubes daily—enough for 580+ drinks. This ice maker machine with a 33 lbs maximum ice storage capacity,The ice-full indicator light will automatically turn on when the ice storage reaches 19 lbs. Ideal for parties, watching games and commercial peak hours—say goodbye to the anxiety of running out of ice
- Fast Ice Making & Large Storage: Get your first batch of ice in just 10 minutes. The large-capacity bin reduces the need for frequent emptying, ensuring ice is always ready when you need it
- 48-Hour Timer for Easy Planning: Schedule ice production up to 48 hours in advance with the intuitive LED panel. Ideal for events and busy hours, so you can enjoy the moment without worrying about ice supply
- Quiet & Hassle-Free Operation: Runs at under 50 dB, keeping your space quiet. Features smart alerts and one-touch self-cleaning with a detachable water tank for effortless maintenance and hygienic ice
- Adjustable Ice for Every Drink: Choose ice thickness to suit your needs—thin ice in 9 mins for coffee and tea, or thick ice in 14 mins for cocktails and whiskey. Designed for versatility and better drink experience
- High-Output & Large Storage: This commercial ice maker produces up to 100 lbs of crystal-clear ice daily, with the first batch ready in just 10-18 mins. Features an expanded 18-33 lbs storage bin (it is not a freezer), ensuring a steady supply of 200+ cold drinks for home parties, bars, or light commercial use
- Easy 3-Step Setup & Under-Counter Installation: This undercounter ice maker machine offers quick plug-and-play operation: just connect the faucet (1/2-inch Male Threaded), attach the drain hose (requires a floor drain), and plug in the power. Sized at 15.1x15.7x29 inches with front venting, it fits seamlessly as a freestanding or built-in unit under standard cabinets
- Self-Cleaning Support & Easy Controls: One-touch self-cleaning helps rinse the internal water system and reduce routine maintenance effort. Adjustable ice thickness, LED lighting (automatically activates a blue light when opened), and simple controls make this self-cleaning ice maker commercial easier to use in homes, cafes, offices, and small business drink areas
- Built to Last & Safe: Commercial ice machine is built with heavy-duty, rust-proof stainless steel for ultimate durability. Features food-grade safe interior components to keep every cube pure and tasteless. Designed for reliable, 24/7 peak performance, it delivers consistent performance and lasting peace of mind
- Faster Cooling & Lower Bills: Driven by an advanced R290 compressor, this ice maker 100lbs boosts energy efficiency by up to 30%, saving you up to $260/year on utility bills. This ice machine commercial delivers rapid refrigeration while lowering long-term operating costs, making it the perfect smart choice
- Fast & Consistent Ice Output: This commercial ice maker machine produces up to 85 lbs of clear ice per day, with each cycle taking only 11–20 minutes. The 24 lbs storage bin ensures a continuous supply. Whether for your home bar, restaurant kitchen, café, or office breakroom, this under counter ice maker is built to handle daily ice demands with ease—no more running out of ice during parties or busy prep time.
- User-Friendly Control Panel: The ice machine features a smart LCD display for easy operation. Adjust ice thickness, start the 1–24H timer, or activate self-cleaning—all from one simple interface. Clear icons and responsive controls make it easy to manage even in fast-paced commercial environments, helping you stay in control at every step.
- 3 Sizes of Ice Cubes: Choose from small, medium, or large ice cubes to suit different needs. This ice maker is ideal for cocktails, smoothies, cold drinks, and more. Whether you're serving whiskey, iced lattes, or sparkling soda, the adjustable cube size ensures perfect texture and taste—no more oversized chunks or diluted drinks.
- Freestanding or Under Counter Use: Designed for both built-in and freestanding installation, this commercial ice machine (20.19" x 14.96" x 33.9") fits perfectly in kitchens, bars, offices, cafes, and other commercial or home spaces. Includes a water pump for flexible placement—even when the drain outlet is higher than the machine’s drain port.
- Setup Tips & Customer Support: Keep the ice machine upright for 24 hours before first use. Ensure the drain pipe is lower than the drain outlet to prevent drainage issues. Our support team typically replies within 24 hours to help with any questions. Backed by a 1-year limited warranty and responsive service, we’re here to make sure you enjoy reliable performance and peace of mind.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Undercounter Ice Maker
An undercounter ice maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, home bar, or entertainment area. It keeps a steady supply of ice ready for drinks and parties without taking up valuable counter space. Choosing the right one can feel tricky, but this guide breaks down what you need to know.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features. They decide how well the machine works for you.
Ice Production Capacity
- Daily Yield: This tells you how many pounds of ice the machine makes in 24 hours. If you host big parties often, look for 50 lbs or more. For daily family use, 25-35 lbs might be enough.
- Storage Bin Size: This is how much ice it holds at one time. A bigger bin means less frequent harvesting.
Ice Type
Most undercounter units make “bullet” ice. This ice is hollow and melts slower, making it great for drinks. Some high-end models offer gourmet or nugget ice (chewable ice).
Installation Type
- Undercounter (Built-In): These units fit perfectly under your existing counter. They usually require a dedicated water line hookup and drain line. This offers the cleanest look.
- Freestanding (Portable): While less common for undercounter models, some smaller units can sit nearby and be moved. Ensure the model you buy is truly designed for permanent undercounter installation if that is your goal.
Filtration System
Good ice starts with good water. Look for built-in water filters. Filters remove bad tastes and odors. They also help reduce mineral buildup inside the machine, which keeps it running longer.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect the machine’s lifespan and how quiet it runs.
Stainless Steel Exterior
Most quality undercounter ice makers use stainless steel for the door and trim. Stainless steel looks sharp in modern kitchens. It resists rust and is easy to wipe clean.
Insulation and Bin Material
The storage bin should be made of durable, food-grade plastic or stainless steel. Good insulation keeps the ice from melting quickly, even if you don’t use it right away. Thicker insulation equals better efficiency.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
These details separate a good machine from a great one.
Noise Level (Decibels – dB)
Ice makers run a cycle to make ice, which involves a pump and a harvest process. If the machine sits near your living area, look for models rated under 45 dB. Quieter operation greatly improves the user experience.
Energy Efficiency
Look for the Energy Star rating. Energy Star certified models use less electricity to keep the ice frozen. This saves you money over the machine’s life.
Drainage System
The unit needs a drain line. Some models use a pump to push the drain water up and out. Others rely on gravity drainage. Check your installation space to see which type works best with your plumbing setup.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the ice maker daily.
Home Bar/Entertainment
If you love hosting, prioritize high daily production (50+ lbs) and quick recovery time. You want the machine to keep up with guests constantly grabbing ice.
Everyday Kitchen Use
For a busy family, reliability and a good filter are key. A simple control panel with indicator lights (like “Add Water” or “Ice Full”) makes daily use simple.
Installation Complexity
Professional installation is usually recommended for built-in models because of the plumbing and electrical connections. Simple hookups make the initial setup easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Undercounter Ice Makers
Q: Do undercounter ice makers require plumbing?
A: Yes, almost all built-in models need a connection to a cold water line to make ice. They also usually need a drain line to remove melted water.
Q: How much space do I need underneath my counter?
A: Standard widths are usually 15 inches or 18 inches wide. Always measure the exact width, height, and depth of your cabinet opening before buying. Remember to leave a few inches in the back for necessary ventilation.
Q: Can I install an undercounter ice maker myself?
A: While some handy people attempt DIY installation, connecting water lines and ensuring proper drainage often requires a professional plumber or appliance installer for the best, leak-free results.
Q: What is the difference between clear ice and bullet ice?
A: Bullet ice is the most common; it is somewhat cloudy and hollow. Clear ice is denser and completely transparent, often preferred by serious cocktail enthusiasts. Clear ice models are usually more expensive.
Q: How often do I need to clean the machine?
A: Manufacturers usually recommend a thorough cleaning (using a vinegar or approved cleaner solution) every three to six months. Regular filter changes also help keep the machine clean.
Q: Will it keep making ice forever if I don’t use it?
A: No. Most units have a sensor that stops ice production when the bin is full. If the ice melts slightly (due to warm ambient temperature), the machine will automatically start making more ice again.
Q: Are these units noisy?
A: They make noise when the pump runs or when the ice drops into the bin. High-quality units operate quietly, often sounding like a gentle hum or soft trickle of water.
Q: What happens if the power goes out?
A: The ice already made stays frozen in the insulated bin for a while. When the power returns, the machine will resume its normal cycle.
Q: Do I need a special electrical outlet?
A: Most standard undercounter models use a regular 115V grounded outlet. Always check the specific model’s electrical requirements before purchasing.
Q: What is “harvest time”?
A: Harvest time is the short period when the machine stops making ice and pushes the newly formed ice cubes out of the freezing plate and into the storage bin.
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!