Top 5 Undercounter Ice Makers: Home Buying Guide Now

Imagine hosting a party where the ice runs out halfway through. That’s a common headache many homeowners face! Keeping a steady supply of fresh, clean ice without constantly refilling bulky countertop machines or running to the store is a real challenge. When you decide to upgrade your kitchen, an undercounter ice maker seems like the perfect, sleek solution, but the sheer number of models, sizes, and features can quickly become overwhelming.

Choosing the right undercounter ice maker involves more than just looking at the price tag. You need to consider nugget versus cube ice, production rates, and how well it fits your existing space and lifestyle. Making the wrong choice means wasted money and continued ice shortages. This guide cuts through the confusion.

By the end of this article, you will understand exactly what features matter most, how to match a machine to your household’s needs, and which models offer the best value. We will break down the technical jargon into simple steps so you can confidently select the perfect undercounter ice maker to keep your drinks perfectly chilled, every time. Let’s dive into finding your ideal ice solution!

Top Undercounter Ice Maker For Home Recommendations

No. 1

EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Under Counter ice Machine with 33lbs Ice Storage Capacity, Freestanding Ice Maker.

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.

No. 2

VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100 lbs/24h with 28Lbs Storage, 45 Cubes per Cycle, Stainless Steel Freestanding & Under Counter Ice Maker with LED Display & Self-Cleaning, for Home Bar Restaurant

Efficient Ice Making: The commercial ice maker produces 45 cubes per cycle and up to 100 lbs of ice daily, with 28 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.
Quiet & Insulation: This quiet ice machine features a low-noise compressor (≤55 dB) and 0.79 in 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

No. 3

VEVOR Under Counter Ice Maker, 66 Lbs/Day Under Counter Nugget Ice Makers Machine with Drain Pump, Reversible Door, 18 Lbs Storage, Stainless Steel Freestanding Ice Maker for Commercial Home Kitchen

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.

No. 4

Coolski 15" W Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine, 130 Lbs/Day Auto-Cleaning, 30 Lbs Storage, Stainless Steel Built-in Freestanding Ice Maker for Home Bar Restaurant Outdoor

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.

No. 5

EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine,80lbs/24H,36 Ice Cubes in 8-12 Mins,Under Counter Ice Maker with Water Filter,12lbs Storage Capacity,Freestanding Ice Machine for Home/Bar/Cafe/Restaurant

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.

No. 6

Commercial Ice Maker Machine 85Lbs/Day, 24Lbs Storage, Built-in Undercounter Ice Maker with Auto-Cleaning & Timer, Freestanding Stainless Steel Ice Machine, Ideal for Home Office Restaurant Bar

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.)

No. 7

Coolake 15" Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker, 100Lbs/Day Outdoor Ice Maker with 30 Lbs Storage, Stainless Steel Gravity Drainage Freestanding Built-in Ice Machine for Home Bar Garage Kitchen

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

No. 8

ICYGLEE Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine, 100Lbs/Day with 24lbs Storage, Built-in Freestanding Ice Maker, Auto-Cleaning, 24H Timer, for Commercial & Home Use. (Stainless)

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

The Essential Guide to Choosing Your Undercounter Ice Maker

An undercounter ice maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, home bar, or entertainment area. It provides a steady supply of ice without taking up precious counter space. But how do you pick the right one? This guide breaks down what you need to know before you buy.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping, focus on these important features. They make a big difference in how well the machine works for you.

Ice Production Rate

How much ice do you need? Check the pounds per 24 hours (lbs/24hr) rating. If you host big parties often, you need a higher production rate, maybe 40 lbs or more. For daily family use, 25 lbs might be enough.

Ice Type and Shape

What kind of ice do you like? Most undercounter units make gourmet, clear, or nugget ice. Nugget ice (like Sonic ice) is soft and chewable. Gourmet ice is slow-melting and often clear, perfect for drinks.

Storage Capacity

How much ice does it hold? The storage bin size matters. A larger bin means you don’t have to empty the ice as often. Remember, the machine keeps making ice even after the bin is full, so look for auto-shutoff features.

Installation Needs

Do you have the right hookups? Most models need a direct water line connection and a drain line. Some very small units might use a reservoir you fill manually, but these need refilling constantly.

Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials used determine how long your ice maker lasts and how clean your ice stays.

Stainless Steel Exterior

Stainless steel looks sleek and resists rust. It also cleans up easily. Always choose good quality stainless steel for durability.

Internal Components

Look for high-quality plastic or stainless steel inside the ice-making area. Plastic parts can sometimes crack over time, especially with temperature changes. Better insulation helps the machine run more efficiently, saving energy.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

What makes one machine better than another? It often comes down to smart design.

Noise Level (Decibels)

Ice makers make noise when making ice or dropping it into the bin. If the machine goes in a living area or close to bedrooms, look for models rated under 45 dB. Quieter operation greatly improves the user experience.

Air-Cooled vs. Water-Cooled

Air-cooled units use a fan and are easier to install because they don’t need a drain line (though a drain is still recommended). Water-cooled units are more efficient but require a drain. Air-cooled units can sometimes struggle in very hot spaces.

Filtration System

A built-in or recommended water filter cleans impurities and scale from the water. This improves the taste of the ice and protects the internal parts from damage. This feature significantly reduces maintenance headaches.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where and how you will use the ice maker.

Home Bar Setup

If you entertain frequently, prioritize high production and quick recovery time (how fast it makes more ice after you scoop some out). A clear ice maker looks professional behind a wet bar.

Kitchen Integration

For everyday family use, ease of use is key. Look for simple controls and a clear indicator light that tells you when the bin is full or if there is a water issue. Make sure the door swings wide enough for easy scooping.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Undercounter Ice Makers

Q: Do undercounter ice makers need a drain line?

A: Most units do. The drain line removes excess water from the defrost cycle. If you buy an air-cooled model, it might not strictly require one, but it is usually best practice to install one.

Q: How long does an undercounter ice maker last?

A: With regular cleaning and good water quality, a quality undercounter ice maker usually lasts between 10 and 15 years.

Q: Can I install an undercounter ice maker myself?

A: Basic installation (placing the unit) is easy. However, connecting the water line and the drain line often requires basic plumbing knowledge. If you are unsure, hire a professional plumber.

Q: What is the difference between “clear ice” and “cloudy ice”?

A: Cloudy ice forms when air gets trapped during freezing. Clear ice makers remove the air, resulting in harder, slower-melting ice cubes.

Q: Will this unit fit under my standard counter height?

A: Standard counter height is about 34 to 36 inches. Always check the specific height dimensions of the model you buy and make sure there is enough space above for ventilation.

Q: How often should I clean my unit?

A: You should clean the interior and bin every three to six months. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for running a cleaning cycle.

Q: Are these machines energy efficient?

A: Modern units are much better than older models. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models. They use less energy to maintain the ice level.

Q: Can I use an undercounter ice maker without a water line connection?

A: Some small, portable models can be used this way by manually filling a reservoir. However, most built-in undercounter units require a permanent water connection to function correctly.

Q: Do these machines make a lot of heat?

A: Yes, all ice makers produce some heat as a byproduct of the cooling process. Ensure you leave the recommended clearance space around the sides and back for proper airflow.

Q: What happens if the power goes out?

A: The ice already made stays frozen in the insulated bin for several hours. Once power returns, the machine resumes making ice. No permanent damage occurs.

Larry Fish

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!