Tired of lukewarm drinks on a hot summer day? Imagine having a steady supply of crystal-clear ice right in your kitchen! Undercounter ice makers are fantastic for entertaining or just daily convenience. But when you look to buy one, a big question pops up: do I need a drain pump?
Many people face this puzzle. Some undercounter ice makers just drain slowly, creating messy puddles or even water damage if the machine sits too low. A drain pump solves this problem by actively pushing the excess water away. Choosing the right model—one that fits your space and needs—can feel overwhelming with all the technical jargon out there.
Don’t worry! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will clearly explain exactly what a drain pump does, why you might absolutely need one, and how to pick the perfect undercounter ice maker for your home setup. Get ready to say goodbye to ice shortages and hello to perfectly chilled beverages!
Top Undercounter Ice Maker With Drain Pump Recommendations
- 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 electric drain pump, this undercounter ice maker can effectively drain water without relying on gravity, helping to keep the keeping the interior clean and designed 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
- 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
- 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, and the 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
- Fast & Reliable Ice Production: Our commercial ice maker produces up to 85 lbs of clear ice every 24 hours, with fresh cubes ready in just 11–20 minutes. Perfect for homes, cafes, bars, and small restaurants that need a dependable ice maker for continuous supply.
- Smart Control with LCD Panel: This ice maker machine features an intuitive LCD panel for easy operation. Set a 1–24 hour timer, adjust ice cube thickness, or activate the self-cleaning cycle with one touch. Clear indicators make this ice machine simple to use for anyone.
- 3 Ice Sizes for Every Drink: Whether you need small cubes for smoothies, medium for sodas, or large for cocktails and whiskey, this versatile ice maker machine delivers the right ice for every occasion.
- Built-In or Freestanding Flexibility: Use it as an under counter ice maker or a freestanding unit. Includes a water pump for flexible placement—even when the drain outlet is higher than the machine’s drain port.
- Reliable Support You Can Count On: Your satisfaction matters. Our ice maker comes with responsive customer service (usually within 24 hours) and a 1-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
- High-Quality Ice Cubes: Coolski’s built-in ice machine makes standard 0.87-inch ice cubes which are premium, sturdier than regular ice, and melt slowly, so they keep your drink’s flavor intact. That means the ice cubes may not dispense individually when you go to get them, so you might occasionally need to apply a little force to separate them.
- 12-18 Mins Per Batch Ice: Our commercial under counter ice maker machine delivers 80 LBS/Day and a 25 LBS bin for ample storage. Coolski built-in freestanding ice maker can produce 32 ice cubes every 12-18 minutes, ensuring fast access to ice whenever you need it. It also offers 3 ice cube size options to choose from, which can be controlled via the smart LCD panel.
- Low Maintenance Design: Stainless steel construction is durable, rust-resistant and stands up to daily use. Built-in auto cleaning cycle flushes limescale and residue from ice trays, eliminating worry about ice cleanliness. Coolski freestanding ice maker’s gravity drain design stops standing water, helping keep the interior dry.
- Compact Stylish For Any Space: Our commercial built-in freestanding ice maker has a sleek, space-saving design and supports fully flush installation. No clunky gaps, so it blends in without sticking out. It fits under kitchen counters, home bars, office break rooms and RVs. The ice maker adds a polished look to any decor while staying functional.
- Set Up Tip: After delivery, leave the ice maker upright and undisturbed for at least 24 hours before use. This lets the internal refrigerant settle and ensures smooth, efficient operation from the start. Also, this ice maker uses gravity drainage, so confirm you have space for the drain pipe and outlet near its intended spot before ordering.
- Fast Ice Making & Large Ice Storage: Our undercounter built-in ice maker can produce 66 lbs of ice in 24 hours, with a storage capacity of 18 lbs. It makes nugget ice (0.6x0.4x0.4 inch) quickly, ideal for home use or parties.
- Flexible Installation: Equipped with a reversible stainless steel door and a full-length handle, this built in ice maker can be installed with either a left-hinged or right-hinged door for flexibility. It supports various installation types (undercounter, freestanding, or built-in), and requires 50mm of clearance on the sides and top for proper installation.
- Cold Insulated: Constructed with triple-layer insulation, the body of the under counter ice maker is designed for excellent cold retention, keeping your ice crisp and clear. The ice cubes are perfect for slushies, cocktails, whiskey, and other beverages.
- Easy Operation: Equipped with low water and ice full alerts, automatic self-cleaning, and timer functions, the ice maker machine allows you to make ice easily. Along with the user manual and installation kit, an ice scoop is included, making it perfect for parties or daily ice needs.
- Electric Drainage: Paired with a drain pump, this undercounter ice maker can effectively drain water without relying on gravity, helping to keep the unit clean and extend its lifespan. It can be installed in kitchens, living rooms, patios, and even on RVs or boats. NOTE: The electric drain pump is shipped as a separate package and may arrive at a different time.
- 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 85 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.
- Note : Please check the dimension and item weight of the product and confirm it fits your space
- LARGE ICE PRODUCTION AND STORAGE - Produces up to 65 pounds of clear restaurant quality slab ice cubes per day; each ice cube measures 3/4in x 3/4in x 1in and is clear, tasteless, and free from impurities; inside storage bin is removable to be placed on the counter top and stores 25 pounds of ice
- FLEXIBILE INSTALLATION - this ice maker is not a freezer so the ice will melt very slowly and requires use of a drain; includes built-in drain pump for installation almost anywhere a drain is available; leveling legs allow installation on uneven floors; 33.5 inch height and front breathing design allows installation under counters; finished sides let you also use as a freestanding unit
- Efficient components; high quality parts and durable construction make this one of the only ice makers to have both residential and commercial approvals
- STYLISH FEATURES - Bright blue LED lighting elegantly illuminates the interior; reversible stainless steel door with full length handle can be installed to open from the left or right; ice scoop and internal scoop holder mounted on the inside wall
- Fast Ice Making & Storage: 15”W stainless steel under the counter ice maker produces an impressive 100 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.
- Two Drainage Options for Ice Makers: A gravity drain or a condensate removal drain pump. 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 or pump into the floor drain before plugging the machine in. Our ice machine is equipped with a drain pump for effective water draining without relying on gravity, capable of pumping water to a maximum height of 6.6 ft.
- Water filter&Self-Cleaning: Our commercial underconter 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.
- [Certified Safety & Reliability] ETL and FCC certified, this ice maker meets strict U.S. safety and performance standards—offering dependable, long-lasting operation and peace of mind for both home and small business owners.
- [Advanced Water Filtration for Pure Taste] The built-in activated carbon filter has passed the international NSF/ANSI 42 and NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 certifications, delivering exceptionally clean, fresh-tasting ice by removing chlorine, rust, sediment, and unpleasant odors—perfect for cocktails, coffee, smoothies, or everyday hydration.
- [Fast & Consistent Ice Production] Produces up to 85 lbs of crystal-clear square ice per day, with each cycle creating 40 cubes in just 10–18 minutes. The 26-lb storage bin keeps plenty of ice on hand for parties, bars, or daily family use.
- [Smart App-Controlled Convenience] Easily manage your ice maker through the mobile app—power it on or off remotely, adjust ice thickness, set production schedules, and receive real-time alerts for “ice full” and “water shortage” notifications, so you’ll always know when your ice is ready.
- [Durable & Easy-to-Clean Stainless Steel Design] Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, this ice maker is sleek, rust-resistant, and built to last. The smooth exterior is effortless to wipe clean and fits perfectly into modern kitchen or bar décor.
Your Guide to Picking the Best Undercounter Ice Maker with a Drain Pump
An undercounter ice maker with a built-in drain pump is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, home bar, or small business. It gives you plenty of ice without taking up valuable counter space. But choosing the right one can feel tricky. This guide helps you understand what to look for so you buy the perfect machine.
Key Features to Look For
The best ice makers offer a mix of convenience and performance. These are the must-have features:
- Ice Production Rate: How much ice does it make in 24 hours? For a busy family or small party space, look for models that make at least 25 to 50 pounds daily.
- Storage Capacity: This is how much ice the machine holds before you need to use it. A larger bin means less frequent emptying.
- Ice Type: Most undercounter models make clear, chewable nugget ice or standard crescent-shaped cubes. Decide which shape you prefer for your drinks.
- Self-Cleaning Function: This feature is a lifesaver! It runs a cycle to keep the machine fresh, cutting down on manual scrubbing.
- Drain Pump Included: This is crucial for undercounter installation. The pump pushes excess water out through a drain line, even if the drain is higher than the machine.
Understanding the Drain Pump
Why is the drain pump so important? Standard ice makers rely on gravity to drain melted ice water. If your machine sits below the main sink drain, the water has nowhere to go. The pump actively pushes that water away. Always check that the pump has enough power (head height) to reach your intended drain location.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long your ice maker lasts and how clean the ice stays.
Exterior and Insulation
- Stainless Steel Exterior: This looks professional and resists rust and smudges better than plastic. It fits nicely into modern cabinetry.
- High-Quality Insulation: Good insulation keeps the stored ice frozen longer, even when the machine is not actively making ice. This saves energy.
Internal Components
- Food-Grade Plastic Tubing: Ensure all water lines and the ice bin interior use materials safe for food contact (BPA-free is best).
- Durable Ice Maker Mechanism: Look for reliable components, often made from strong metals or high-density plastics, that handle daily freezing cycles well.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag; it’s about smart design choices.
Quality Boosters:
- Quiet Operation: Models that use quieter compressors or better sound dampening provide a better user experience, especially in open-concept living areas.
- Intuitive Controls: Simple digital displays that show error codes or cleaning reminders make ownership easy.
- Energy Star Rating: These models use less electricity to produce the same amount of ice, saving you money.
Quality Reducers (Watch Outs):
- Thin Walls: Units with very thin exterior panels often have poor insulation, leading to more noise and melted ice.
- Proprietary Filters: If the machine requires very specific, expensive water filters that you can only buy from the manufacturer, maintenance costs rise quickly.
- Weak Pumps: A drain pump that struggles with vertical lift (head height) will cause drainage errors and potential leaks.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use this machine. This helps narrow down the size and style you need.
Home Kitchens and Entertainment Areas:
If you host parties often, prioritize high daily production (40+ lbs). If you only use it for daily drinks, a smaller, slower unit might be fine. The quiet operation feature is very important here.
Wet Bar Setups:
In a dedicated bar area, the drain pump is essential because the bar sink drain might be far away. Look for models that fit standard cabinet depths (usually 24 inches).
Small Offices or Breakrooms:
For a small office, ease of use matters most. A reliable self-cleaning cycle reduces the burden on staff. Production needs are usually moderate (25-35 lbs per day).
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Undercounter Ice Makers with Drain Pumps
Q: How hard is the installation process?
A: Installation requires plumbing and electrical knowledge. You need a water line connection, a drain line connection for the pump, and a standard outlet. If you are not comfortable with plumbing, hire a professional.
Q: Does the drain pump run all the time?
A: No. The drain pump only kicks on automatically when the machine senses that the drain reservoir is full, usually after a defrost cycle or when the ice bin is full.
Q: Can I install this unit without a drain pump?
A: Only if the bottom of the ice maker is physically higher than the connection point of your main sink drain. If it is lower, you *must* use the pump, or water will flood the machine.
Q: How often do I need to clean the machine?
A: If you use the self-cleaning function, run it once every 1 to 3 months. A deep clean should happen every 6 months, regardless of the automatic cycles.
Q: What is the difference between nugget ice and crescent ice?
A: Nugget ice is soft, chewable, and often called “Sonic ice.” Crescent ice is the standard, harder, wedge-shaped cube you see in most freezer ice makers.
Q: Will this unit freeze up my freezer?
A: No. Undercounter ice makers are self-contained units. They do not connect to or affect your main refrigerator or freezer.
Q: How much noise should I expect from the drain pump?
A: The pump makes a brief whirring or gurgling sound when it runs, similar to a small dishwasher cycle finishing. It should only last a few seconds.
Q: Do I need a special water filter?
A: While not always required, using a quality water filter extends the life of the machine by reducing mineral buildup (scale) on the evaporator plate.
Q: What is the average lifespan of these machines?
A: With regular cleaning, a quality undercounter ice maker usually lasts between 10 and 15 years.
Q: Can I use this outdoors?
A: Generally, no. Most undercounter models are designed only for indoor, protected environments. Outdoor use voids the warranty and risks damage from temperature extremes.
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!