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
- High-Efficiency Under Counter Ice Maker:This commercial under counter ice maker machine produces up to 90 lbs of clear ice per day, delivering 40 ice cubes every 10–18 minutes. The 24 lb storage bin provides a reliable supply, making this ice maker commercial ideal for home kitchens, bars, restaurants, hotels, and cafés.
- Under Counter Ice Maker with Drain Pump :Unlike standard ice machines that rely on gravity drainage, this under counter ice maker features an electric drain pump for efficient water removal. This design helps keep the interior clean, extends the lifespan of the commercial ice machine, and allows flexible installation even without a floor drain.
- Compact Ice Machine for Built-In or Freestanding Use: With a built-in size of 14.96 × 18.47 × 33.99 inches (including adjustable feet), this ice maker under counter fits standard-height cabinets and bars. It can also be used as a freestanding ice maker, offering versatile placement for both residential and commercial spaces.
- Smart Control Ice Maker Machine :The intuitive LCD panel on this ice maker machine displays ambient temperature and allows you to adjust ice cube thickness by changing ice-making time. The 24-hour timer lets you schedule operation easily, improving convenience for daily use.
- Self-Cleaning Under Counter Ice Machine: This commercial ice maker includes a one-touch self-cleaning function—press and hold the “Timer Clean” button for 5 seconds to activate. A water supply is required. Keep the ice machine upright for 24 hours before first use. If the drain pump is disconnected or not in use, empty the ice bin in advance.
- 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.
- Unique Top-Mounted Button Design: No more bending over to press the switch-simply reach out and press it, bidding farewell to the back and waist pain caused by frequent machine operation. Unlike the typical undercounter ice makers on the market with side-mounted buttons, our ice maker under counter features a top-mounted button design that aligns with users’ height and usage habits, making operation more comfortable
- 100lbs Daily Output:This ice maker machine is built to keep up with demand. It generates 100 pounds of crystal-clear ice every 24 hours, producing a fresh batch of 45 bullet-shaped cubes in as little as 11 to 15 minutes. Whether you’re catering a party or running a busy shift, the generous 33-pound storage bin holds enough ice to handle the rush. An automatic shut-off feature prevents overfilling, giving you one less thing to monitor during peak use.
- DUAL ETL CERTIFICATION: Certified for both home and commercial spaces, this model offers flexibility most units can’t match. The ETL certification covers everything from safety to performance, so you can install YITAHOME under counter ice makers with confidence in a restaurant, bar, outdoor kitchen, or hotel. Hosting a summer barbecue or managing a small café? This ice maker adapts to your setting without compromising on reliability or build quality.
- Energy-Saving & Quiet: The upgraded CFC-free compressor saves up to 35% electricity, boosting the freezing system for constant fresh ice with high efficiency; Our commercial ice machine operates quietly, ideal for offices, homes, hotels, bars, parties
- Extended Cooling: The ice maker machine commercial features a 20% thicker cyclopentane insulation layer that blocks heat, extending ice retention from 6 to 8 hours; Built-in blue light slows melting; The flip cover and ice scoop offer easy ice access
- Advanced & Fast Ice Making: Enjoy a constant supply of crystal-clear ice with our commercial under counter ice maker. It produces up to 85 lbs of ice every 24 hours and makes 40 clear cubes in just 10–18 minutes, perfect for family gatherings, parties, restaurants, bars, or hotels. The 24 lb built-in storage bin ensures you’ll never run out of ice when you need it most.
- Compact Built-In or Freestanding Design: Designed to fit seamlessly under any standard kitchen or bar counter, this ice maker measures 14.96" x 18.47" x 33.99" (with adjustable feet). Its sleek stainless steel construction complements any décor and also works perfectly as a freestanding unit, offering flexibility for any space.
- Reversible Door & Superior Cold Insulation: The reversible stainless steel under counter ice maker machine door allows you to choose the opening direction left or right to suit your layout. The 3-layer insulated housing locks in cold air, ensuring longer-lasting ice cubes and reducing melting.
- Smart LCD Panel with Adjustable Ice Thickness: The intuitive LCD control panel displays the ambient temperature and lets you customize the ice thickness by adjusting the ice-making cycle time. With a 24-hour timer, you can schedule the ice maker to start or stop automatically, saving time and energy.
- Self-Cleaning Function & Easy Maintenance: Keep your ice clean and fresh effortlessly. Activate the self-cleaning mode by pressing the “Timer Clean” button for 5 seconds. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and extends the ice machine’s lifespan. (Note: This ice maker machine requires a water supply. Please keep the unit upright for at least 24 hours before first use.)
- 【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.
- [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 90 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.
- Efficient Ice Making: The commercial ice maker produces 45 cubes per cycle and up to 130 lbs of ice daily, with 33 lbs of ice storage. Ideal for home, bar, or light commercial use. ETL and ENERGY STAR certified for secure and efficient performance
- Easy Operation: This ice maker machine features intuitive LED controls, just select thick or thin cubes with one touch. The large viewing window and blue interior lighting let you monitor the ice-making process without opening the lid
- Easy to Clean: This self-cleaning ice maker runs a 20-minute automatic rinse cycle with a 3-second press of the “Mode” button. The patented removable water tray lets you lift and rinse for deep, thorough cleaning—inside and out
- Quiet & Insulation: This quiet ice machine features a low-noise compressor (≤50 dB) and 0.79" thick insulation to keep ice cold longer. Enjoy fresh ice and a peaceful environment—without disrupting your home or workspace
- Quick Installation: No film removal required—this undercounter ice maker comes ready to use. Freestanding or built-in, its sleek design integrates smoothly into kitchens, bars, or any space that needs flexible placement
- 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.
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!