Imagine hosting a summer barbecue, and your regular freezer ice runs out in minutes. Frustrating, right? We’ve all been there, wishing for an endless supply of perfectly chilled ice for drinks. That’s where an undercounter ice maker steps in as a true kitchen hero.
Choosing the perfect undercounter ice maker can feel overwhelming. You face tough questions: Which size fits your space? Which one makes ice fastest? And how do you balance performance with your budget? These machines blend seamlessly into your kitchen or bar, but picking the wrong one leads to wasted money and disappointing ice production.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the essential features, compare top styles, and give you clear steps to find the ideal unit for your home. You will learn exactly what to look for to ensure you never run out of ice again.
Ready to upgrade your entertaining game and enjoy effortless ice on demand? Let’s dive into the world of undercounter ice makers and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Top Ice Maker Undercounter Recommendations
- 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.
- 【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.
- 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
- 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.
- Ultra-High Efficiency: The Euhomy commercial ice maker produces up to 100 lbs of crystal-clear cube ice per day, delivering 45 ice cubes in just 10–15 minutes. No more worrying about running out of ice—even during peak hours. It comes with a built-in 33 lbs ice storage bin, ensuring you always have ice on hand. The ice thickness is adjustable to suit different needs—perfect for cocktails, soft drinks, coffee, and more. This machine is an excellent choice for bars, restaurants, cafés, hotels, and even home kitchens or outdoor gatherings.
- Durable, Reliable & Safe: Built with a pure copper compressor and a stainless steel body, this commercial ice maker is engineered for long-lasting performance. It is ETL certified for commercial use, ensuring both safety and reliability for professional or home settings. To guarantee crystal-clear, safe ice every time, the machine also comes with an upgraded water filter that effectively removes impurities, pollutants, and heavy metals.
- Multi-Function Control Panel: This commercial ice maker features a smart LCD panel that makes operation simple and convenient. The display shows the ambient temperature, reminding you to maintain the best environment for efficient ice production. You can easily adjust ice cube size by changing the ice-making time. With just one press of the self-cleaning function, the machine takes care of hygiene automatically. Plus, the 24-hour timer allows you to program start and stop times according to your schedule.
- Hassle-Free & Insulated Design: This commercial ice maker features a curved cover with a built-in viewing window, allowing you to easily check the ice-making process without opening the lid. Its 3-layer insulation system—stainless steel, thick foam, and food-grade PP—effectively locks in cold air, ensuring your ice stays solid and fresh for longer. With this reliable insulation, you’ll always have a consistent supply of ice ready for your business.
- Regular Cleaning: We recommends that you clean the ice machine regularly according to the usage. Requires water supply and drain (GRAVITY DRAINAGE). SUGGEST-Drain water once a day(PULLING OUT THE SMALL HOSE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE WATER TANK). Be sure to keep ice machine upright for at least 24 hours before using it. Also, press the "Timer Clean" button for more than 5 seconds to enter the "Cleaning Program" to clean it twice before making the first batch of ice.
- Ultra-High Efficiency&Endless Ice: Our commercial ice maker machine can produces 80 lbs ice per day , with 36 clear ice cubes ready in just 8-12 minutes, you will have no worry about running out of ice again even during peak hours, meanwhile, the ice maker also has a storage container for 13 lbs of ice, the thickness of our ice machine can also be adjusted for different drinks, like cocktails, beverages, coffee and more, especially ideal for home, bars, restaurants, cafe, hotels and other occasions for using ice.
- Durable, Reliable & Safety :The ice maker commercial built with a pure copper compressor and also has an ETL certification for commercial use, it is durable and reliable for your home or commercial use, In addition to, the commercial ice machine equipped with an upgraded water filter, which can effectively remove impurities, pollutants, and heavy metals, to keep your ice cube is crystal-clear and drink-safe.
- Multi-Function Control Panel :The ice maker machine commercial is equipped with a smart LCD panel. Any function and any operation can be solved in the control panel. The panel shows the temperature of the environment, reminding you to pay attention to the temperature of the surrounding environment to ensure the efficiency of ice making. You can also adjust the size of ice cubes by adjusting the ice making time. The industrial ice machine will clean automatically when you press the clean button.The 24-hour timer function lets you set the ice machine to start or stop running at your convenience.
- Hassle-Free Design&Insulated: The ice maker commercial has a curved cover with a viewing window brings much convenience for opening and observing ice making process, and 3-layer insulation that helps maintain the temperature of the ice, keeping it frozen for longer periods, ensures that your ice remains solid and doesn't melt quickly, providing a reliable supply of ice for your business.
- Regular Cleaning: We recommends that you clean the ice machine regularly according to the usage. Requires water supply and drain (GRAVITY DRAINAGE). SUGGEST-Drain water once a day(PULLING OUT THE SMALL HOSE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE WATER TANK). Be sure to keep ice machine upright for at least 24 hours before using it. Also, press the "Timer Clean" button for more than 5 seconds to enter the "Cleaning Program" to clean it twice before making the first batch of ice.
- ICE ON DEMAND: Produces up to 50 pounds of ice per day; stores up to 25 pounds of ice; Dimensions with feet 14 5/8 W x 24 7/8 D x 32 17/25 H
- CHOOSE YOUR CUBE SIZE: This Ice Maker can produce 2 sizes of ice
- INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE: Front venting for recessed, built-in, or freestanding indoor or outdoor installation. Ice maker must be level for best results. For use in ambient temperatures ranging from 45°- 110° F
- CONVENIENT FEATURES: Stainless steel design, blue LED interior lighting, reversible door, self cleaning, auto shut-off, water supply and drain hoses, and ice scoop included
- BEST USE TIP: For best results, use this appliance in the coolest area of the room, away from heat producing appliances and out of direct sunlight, uses R134a Refrigerant
- Efficient Production Capacity: Using a highly efficient and powerful compressor for fast ice-making, the commercial ice machine can quickly produce up to 200 pounds of ice cubes daily. The self-contained 24 lbs storage capacity makes the ice machine an ideal choice for bars, restaurants, hotels, etc., ensuring sufficient ice for any occasion
- Innovative Ice Maker: It’s simple to use. Hook it up to the water source, ensure drainage, plug it in, and turn it on. Its user-friendly intuitive control has easy-to-read notifications and simple select buttons for settings, including self-cleaning, ice full indication, fault reminder (indicator light), etc. Just press the button - You can adjust the thickness of the ice to suit your preference
- Durability and Reliability: The exterior heavy-duty stainless steel has better corrosion resistance and resistance to daily wear and tear, which can withstand continuous operation and the occasional rough handling, it will be produced in the harshest commercial environments. The interior is made of food-grade PP material that is safe for long-term contact with ice. Insulates the ice bin, preventing the ice cubes from melting within 7-9 hours
- Simple Cleaning Maintenance: Clean the ice machine regularly to ensure clean ice cubes and working life! With an automatic self-cleaning function, you can have peace of mind. With just the press of a button, the ice maker will cycle through a cleaning process. Included leg set allows you to clean the space below the ice maker. With a removable mesh filter to make it easy to keep the condenser clean
- Sleek Space Saver: Measuring 19.7 inches wide, 14.6 inches deep, and 32.9 inches high, the compact, self-contained unit can easily be built-in under counters or used freestanding, with a front-breathing air-cooled system to prevent overheating, popular in offices or boardrooms, and also a great small ice maker for bars. Instead of making last-minute dashes to the store for bags of ice, simply click a button
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Undercounter Ice Maker
An undercounter ice maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, bar area, or entertainment space. It keeps the ice flowing without taking up valuable countertop real estate. But buying one requires knowing what to look for. This guide helps you select the best model for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features. They determine how useful and convenient the machine will be.
Ice Production Rate
How much ice does it make in 24 hours? If you host big parties often, look for models making 50 pounds or more daily. For daily family use, 25-35 pounds might be enough.
Storage Capacity
This is how much ice the built-in bin holds. A larger bin means you don’t have to run the machine as often. Check if the bin is removable for easy cleaning.
Ice Type
Most undercounter units make **cube ice**. Some premium models offer specialty ice like **nugget ice** (chewable, soft ice) or **gourmet clear ice**. Decide which type your household prefers.
Self-Cleaning Function
This feature is a game-changer. A self-cleaning cycle sanitizes the interior, saving you significant time and effort. Always prioritize machines with this function.
Installation Needs
Confirm the unit needs a dedicated water line hookup and a drain line. Some units are “water-cooled” (better performance), while others are “air-cooled” (easier installation but less efficient).
2. Important Materials Matter
The quality of the materials affects how long your ice maker lasts and how safe the ice is.
- Stainless Steel Exterior: This looks sleek in modern kitchens. Stainless steel resists rust and is easy to wipe clean.
- Durable Ice Bin: Look for food-grade plastic or stainless steel bins. Plastic bins are lighter but high-quality plastic resists cracking.
- Copper or Stainless Steel Tubing: The internal water lines should be made of materials that do not leach chemicals into your drinking water.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several design elements directly impact the performance and longevity of your appliance.
Noise Level
Ice makers make noise when they produce ice or when the drain pump runs. Check decibel (dB) ratings. For units installed near living areas or bedrooms, aim for models under 45 dB.
Insulation
Good insulation keeps the stored ice from melting too quickly when the machine isn’t running. Better insulation saves energy.
Drainage System
A proper drain system is crucial. Some units use a gravity drain (requires the unit to be lower than the nearest plumbing drain). Others use a built-in **drain pump**, which gives you more flexibility in where you install the machine.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use the ice maker.
Kitchen Use
If this is your main kitchen ice source, prioritize fast production and a large storage bin. Easy access controls are essential for daily use.
Home Bar/Entertainment Area
For entertaining, the ice maker needs to keep up during peak hours. Nugget ice is often a favorite for cocktails. Consider models with built-in lighting for a nice visual effect when accessing drinks.
Outdoor Kitchens
If installing outdoors, you must purchase an **outdoor-rated model**. These units are built stronger to handle temperature fluctuations and humidity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Undercounter Ice Makers
Q: Do undercounter ice makers need a drain line?
A: Yes, almost all of them need a drain line. As ice melts or condensation forms, the water must go somewhere. This prevents leaks and mold growth inside the unit.
Q: Can I install an undercounter ice maker myself?
A: Installation is moderately difficult. You need plumbing skills to connect the water line and drain line properly. Many homeowners hire a plumber or appliance installer to ensure it works correctly and doesn’t leak.
Q: What is the difference between clear ice and cloudy ice?
A: Cloudy ice forms when air gets trapped during the freezing process. Clear ice forms slowly, pushing the trapped air out. Clear ice looks nicer and melts slower, which is why it is often preferred for spirits.
Q: How often do I need to clean my ice maker?
A: If your unit has a self-cleaning feature, run it once a month. If you clean it manually, aim for every three to six months. Regular cleaning keeps the ice tasting fresh.
Q: Will an undercounter ice maker use a lot of electricity?
A: Modern units are quite efficient. They use energy mainly when actively making ice. Look for Energy Star ratings to find the most efficient models that keep ice frozen using less power.
Q: What if I don’t have a dedicated space under the counter?
A: Some manufacturers offer “clearance-free” models. These are designed to operate safely even when tightly enclosed, but always check the manufacturer’s specific installation guidelines before purchasing.
Q: Are these units loud?
A: Some noise is normal, especially when the ice drops into the bin. High-quality models use better sound dampening. Check reviews specifically mentioning noise levels if quiet operation is important to you.
Q: What is nugget ice, and why is it popular?
A: Nugget ice is soft, chewable ice often called “Sonic ice.” It is very popular because it absorbs drink flavors well and is easy to crunch. These specialized units usually cost more than standard cube makers.
Q: Does the ice melt if the power goes out?
A: Yes, eventually. The ice bin is insulated, which slows down melting. However, without power, the machine cannot replenish the ice, and stored ice will melt into the drain system over time.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of an undercounter ice maker?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality undercounter ice maker should last between 10 and 15 years. The lifespan depends heavily on water quality and how often you clean the internal components.
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!