Imagine the perfect drink: cool, refreshing, and featuring those little, chewable nuggets of ice everyone loves. Does your current freezer ice just not cut it? You crave that satisfying crunch, but finding the best undercounter nugget ice maker feels like a treasure hunt. These machines promise countertop convenience, but navigating features like ice production speed, noise levels, and capacity can quickly become overwhelming.
Many people face this frustration. They want the best for their home bar or kitchen but get lost in technical jargon and conflicting reviews. Choosing the right model means balancing budget with performance, and that’s where many shoppers stumble.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a top-tier undercounter nugget ice maker. By the end, you will know the key factors to look for, ensuring you invest in the machine that delivers that coveted chewable ice consistently. Let’s dive in and find your perfect ice companion!
Top Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker Recommendations
- Continuous Ice Supply: The commercial under counter ice maker machine produces 68 lbs of nugget ice per day, ensuring a steady supply for your home, restaurant, bar, or hotel. The double-layer ice box design guarantees uninterrupted access to fresh ice whenever you need it.
- Chewable Nugget Ice: Also known as sonic or pellet ice, our crunchy, chewable nugget ice produced by our ice maker machine is a favorite for ice enthusiasts and the perfect companion for cocktails, sodas, whiskey, and more. Enjoy the satisfying texture that elevates every drink!
- Smart LCD Control Panel: The user-friendly display on the ice maker shows ambient temperature and alerts you with "Low Water" and "Ice Full" reminders for hassle-free maintenance. The 24-hour timer and cleaning function let you schedule operations and keep the under counter ice machine clean with ease.
- Keep Cold for longer: Equipped with an advanced insulation system, our commercial under counter ice maker keeps 80% of the ice frozen for 24 hours, even when fully loaded. Say goodbye to melted ice—enjoy chilled beverages anytime!
- Space-Saving Design: With compact dimensions of 17.72*14.96*32.28, this built-in ice maker machine fits seamlessly under standard kitchen counters or bars. The ice maker also works freestanding for flexible placement. ETL-certified for safety and approved for both home and commercial use (bars, restaurants, hotels, etc.).
- 【Efficient Ice Production】:This large offline ice maker is designed to provide fast ice making, ensuring that you never run out of ice cubes. With its high-capacity ice making capability, it can start making ice in just 6 minutes and quickly produce 80 pounds of ice per day, making it an ideal choice for residential and commercial use.
- 【Soft and Crispy Crushed Ice】:The ice is crystal clear, easy to chew, melts slowly, and maintains the original flavor of whiskey and cold drinks, so you can chew on the flavored ice after drinking. Whether you need ice for beverages, salad bars, or seafood displays, this ice maker can meet your requirements.
- 【Two Ice Baskets】:Two ice baskets allow you to complete one round of ice making, while the second basket can continue to store ice cubes. Each ice basket has a storage capacity of 9 pounds, so ice making will never stop.
- 【User-Friendly Design】:Made of high-quality materials and carefully designed with dimensions of 16.3 * 33.1 * 15 inches, this commercial ice maker can withstand the harsh test of continuous use in harsh commercial or home environments. The stainless steel casing not only provides durability, but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.
- 【LCD Control Panel for One-Touch Operation】:The intuitive control panel is easy to operate, and anyone can easily operate the ice maker. In the hot summer, you only need to press a button to feel the cool ice cubes, one click self-cleaning, 24-hour timer, and equipped with water shortage and full ice reminders to ensure that your ice cubes never stop.
- Continuous Ice Supply: Euhomy under counter ice maker machine produce 70 lbs of nugget ice in 24 hours, with a double-layer ice box design, the under counter ice machine ensures a continuous supply of pebble ice, meeting all your daily ice needs for your home, restaurant, bar or hotel.
- Chewable Nugget Ice: Nugget Ice also knowns as sonic ice or pebble ice, the nugget ice produced by our ice maker machine is crisp and chewy, not only making it the suitable choice for ice chewing enthusiasts, but also a great companion for various beverages such as cola, cocktails, and more.
- User-friendly LCD Control: The multifunctional control panel on the ice maker not only displays the ambient temperature, but also have the reminder of water shortage and ice full, help you to replenish water or remove ice promptly. meanwhile, the 24-hour timer and clean function lets you set the under counter ice machine to start or stop running at your convenience and clean your ice machine more easily!
- Keep Cold for longer: Our under counter ice maker features an advanced insulation system that ensures, even when the ice bin is full, 80% of the pebble ice still remains unmelted for a full day. You can enjoy the delightful taste of pebble ice at any time you desire.
- Compact Design & Reliable Support: The dimensions of our built-in design ice maker machine is 15*18.03*32.48inches, which makes it perfect for any standard height kitchen or bar counter, while also allowing the ice maker to be used as a standalone unit. if you have any question while using the ice maker, please let us konw promptly, We're always here for you whenever you need assistance.
- Compact Design: The dimensions of our Nugget Ice Maker Machine is 15*18.03*32.48inches, allowing the ice maker to be used as a standalone unit, also makes it perfect for any standard height kitchen or bar counter
- Quiet and Efficient Ice Making: Powerful compressor can produce Chewable Ice in just 10-15 minutes, ensuring you don't have to wait long to enjoy cold beverages. Also experience efficient ice-making without excessive noise interference
- Cold Insulated: Engineered with triple-layer insulation technology, this under counter ice maker delivers superior cold retention for crisp, clear ice cubes, perfect for slushies, cocktails, whiskey, and various beverages
- Large Capacity Fast Ice Making - This built-in & Freestanding Under Counter ice maker produces 66 lbs of ice in 24 hours, Its Commercial ice maker's built-in design fits perfectly under a standard-height kitchen or bar counter
- Self-Cleaning Function & Automatic Water Supply - Press the "Timer Clean" button for 5 seconds to activate the self-cleaning function. Joy Pebble Under Counter Ice Maker water intake pipe on the back provides a continuous supply of ice, saving you from frequent refills
- 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.
- [HIGH-CAPACITY ICE PRODUCTION] – Enjoy the luxury of up to 66 pounds of restaurant-quality nugget ice every day. Perfect for both home and commercial use, this ice machine ensures you always have a plentiful supply of ice on hand.
- [CONVENIENT DIRECT CONNECTION] – Say goodbye to the hassle of manual refills. This ice maker with water line connects directly to your water source and drain, providing continuous ice production without the need for frequent maintenance.
- [DURABLE AND STYLISH DESIGN] - The smudge-resistant stainless-steel door not only adds a sleek, modern look to your kitchen or bar but also protects against fingerprints and oils, keeping the exterior pristine with minimal effort. This under counter ice maker fits seamlessly into your space.
- [SMART SCHEDULING AND CONTROL] - With a versatile timer, you can schedule production of your crushed ice maker to suit your needs and control its duration, ensuring ice is available when you need them. The user-friendly LCD display panel features intuitive indicator icons for easy status monitoring of your ice machine maker.
- [HYGIENIC AND SAFE OPERATION] - This self cleaning ice maker has built-in function to rinse out impurities, preventing stagnant waterlines and ensuring the ice is always fresh. Additionally, BPA-free plastic ice scoop and nugget ice tray guarantee that your ice is clean and safe, giving you peace of mind with every use.
- 80 LBS/24H HIGH ICE PRODUCTION & 15 LBS STORAGE: This ice maker machine nugget produces up to 80 lbs of ice per day. The built-in bin stores up to 15 pounds of soft, chewable pellet ice—perfect for demand use in home parties and small catering.
- POWERFUL COMPRESSOR & EFFICIENT ICE MAKING: Equipped with a powerful, low-noise compressor, this nugget ice maker delivers fast, quiet, and efficient performance. The nugget ice machine features an automatic overflow prevention function that prevents ice from spilling. The built-in blue LED lighting.
- SMART OPERATION & INDICATOR LIGHTS: This undercounter ice maker machine features a user-friendly control panel with a clear LCD. The under counter ice machine offers multiple functions, timer settings, one-touch auto cleaning, and indicator light alerts. The top lid is designed with a sliding mechanism for easy access. An ice scoop is also included for convenience.
- COMMERCIAL-GRADE STAINLESS STEEL & FOOD-GRADE PP LINER: Made with ≥25mm thick integrated cyclopentane foam and heavy-duty stainless steel, this ice maker commercial is rust-resistant, durable, and insulated. The ice maker machine also features a food-grade PP injection-molded liner, ensuring sturdiness and odor-free performance. The surface of the built-in ice maker is coated with a scratch-resistant white film to protect the machine from damage during transportation and extend its lifespan.
- FULL ICE ALERT: This freestanding ice maker can be connected directly to tap water. It comes with a tap water filter to ensure clean, hygienic ice. When the ice bin is full, it will give a prompt and stop making ice to prevent overflow. Note: Ensure the drain hose is positioned lower than the outlet for proper gravity drainage.
- Fast Ice Making & Large Ice Storage: Our under counter built-in ice maker can produce 66 lbs of chewable nugget 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.
- Chewable Nugget Ice: Nugget Ice also is called sonic ice or pebble ice, which is popular for it's crisp and chewy, not only suitable for ice chewing enthusiasts, but also a great choice for most beverages like cola, cocktails, and more.
- Easy Operation: Equipped with low water and ice full alerts, automatic self-cleaning, and 24 hours timer, 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.
- 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.
- Flexible Installation: Equipped with a reversible stainless steel door and a full-length handle, this undercounter 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.
Choosing Your Perfect Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker: A Buyer’s Guide
Nugget ice is that soft, chewable ice everyone loves. An undercounter nugget ice maker brings that wonderful ice right into your kitchen. But picking the right one needs some thought. This guide will help you choose the best machine for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, certain features make a big difference in your ice-making experience.
Ice Production Rate
- Daily Capacity: How much ice does it make in 24 hours? If you host big parties, look for models that make at least 30 lbs per day.
- First Batch Time: How fast does it start making ice? Quick start times mean you don’t wait long for your first cold drink.
Storage Capacity
- Check the size of the ice bin. A bigger bin holds more ice so you don’t run out during busy times.
- Some bins are insulated, which keeps the ice frozen longer, even when the machine isn’t running constantly.
Self-Cleaning Function
This is a huge time-saver. Machines with a self-cleaning cycle use water or a special solution to keep the inside parts clean. This prevents mold and keeps your ice tasting fresh. Always choose a model that offers this feature.
Ice Quality and Size
Make sure the machine truly makes “nugget” ice—soft and chewable—not just small cubes. Some models let you choose how soft or dense you want your nuggets.
Important Materials for Longevity
The materials used affect how long your ice maker lasts and how safe your ice is.
Stainless Steel Exterior
- Stainless steel looks great under the counter. It resists fingerprints and rust. This material makes the unit durable.
Food-Grade Plastic and Components
The parts that touch the water and ice must be safe. Look for BPA-free plastics. The water lines and ice chute should use high-quality, non-toxic materials. Good materials reduce the chance of strange tastes in your ice.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all machines perform the same way. Quality depends on the mechanics inside.
Water Filtration System
- A built-in water filter is essential. Filters remove chlorine and sediment. Good filtration dramatically improves the taste of your ice. It also protects the machine’s inner workings from mineral buildup.
Noise Level
Ice makers make noise when they run. Check user reviews for noise complaints. Models that use quieter compressors are better for open-concept living spaces or kitchens near bedrooms.
Installation Requirements
Some machines need a direct water line hookup and drainage. Models that require complex plumbing can reduce user satisfaction if installation is difficult. Check if the unit needs a drain line or if it uses a drain pump.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use your nugget ice maker.
Kitchen Integration
Undercounter models fit neatly below your counter. Measure your space carefully! Ensure there is enough room around the unit for proper ventilation, as heat needs to escape.
Entertaining Needs
If you love hosting, prioritize high production and large storage. You want to serve guests without worrying about running out of ice mid-party.
Everyday Enjoyment
For daily use, focus on reliability and ease of maintenance. The self-cleaning function becomes the most valuable feature here. You want ice ready instantly when you want a cold drink after work.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Undercounter Nugget Ice Makers
Q: What is the main difference between nugget ice and regular ice?
A: Nugget ice is soft, chewable, and has a high surface area, which makes drinks get cold faster. Regular ice is hard and clear.
Q: Do I need a dedicated water line for these machines?
A: Most undercounter models require a dedicated cold water line connection to run continuously. Some smaller units might have a removable reservoir, but those aren’t usually true undercounter styles.
Q: How long does it take for the first batch of ice?
A: This varies by model, but many good machines start producing ice within 15 to 30 minutes after being turned on for the first time.
Q: How loud are these machines when running?
A: Modern units are much quieter than older models. Look for units rated under 50 decibels (dB) for kitchen use. Very loud machines are often older or lower quality.
Q: Can I install an undercounter ice maker myself?
A: Basic installation (connecting the water line) is often DIY-friendly. However, complex electrical or drainage work might require a professional plumber or electrician.
Q: How often must I clean the machine?
A: If you use the self-cleaning feature, you should run it monthly. A deep clean of the components is usually needed every three to six months.
Q: What happens if the power goes out?
A: The ice stays frozen in the insulated bin until it melts. The machine will restart and begin making ice again once power returns.
Q: Do these machines need a drain line?
A: Yes, most undercounter models include a drain line to remove meltwater and water used during the cleaning cycle. This prevents standing water inside the unit.
Q: Are these machines energy efficient?
A: Newer models carry Energy Star ratings. Look for these ratings to ensure the machine uses less electricity while keeping your ice frozen.
Q: Can I use bottled water instead of a plumbed line?
A: Generally, no, not for undercounter models designed for continuous use. Those require the constant water supply of a plumbed line to maintain their high production rates.
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!