Ever crave that perfect, chewable ice for your favorite drink, the kind that crunches just right? That’s the magic of Sonic ice, often called “nugget ice.” But getting that wonderful ice at home used to mean a trip to a specific fast-food place. Now, you can bring that joy right into your kitchen with an undercounter sonic ice maker.
Choosing the right one, however, can feel like a chilly maze. You want great ice without taking up too much space or breaking the bank. Should you worry about noise, how fast it makes ice, or how much it holds? These decisions can leave you feeling stuck, wondering which machine truly delivers the crunch you desire.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down what makes a great undercounter sonic ice maker. You will learn exactly what features matter most for your kitchen. By the end, you will know how to pick the best model that fits your space and your ice cravings perfectly. Let’s dive into finding your ultimate nugget ice solution!
Top Undercounter Sonic Ice Maker Recommendations
- Nugget Ice - Efficient Ice Making: The first commercial nugget ice maker produces ice in under 10 minutes and generates up to 66 pounds of ice daily. Its dual ice box design ensures a continuous supply for homes, restaurants, bars, or hotels.
- Keep Cold and 24-hour Timing:The commercial nugget ice machine is designed to retain 80% of the ice for up to 24 hours after the basket is full, ensuring ice availability whenever needed. Its 24-hour timer allows for scheduled start and shut down times to conserve energy.
- Compact and Durable,:Undercounter ice maker can be used as a freestanding or built-in unit. Its space-saving design is ideal for kitchens and bars, while the stainless steel door provides durability, easy cleaning, and rust resistance, ensuring elegance in high humidity.
- Auto Water Supply & Self-Cleaning:Under-counter ice maker features an automatic water supply system, eliminating manual operation. Simply press the "TIMER" button on the LCD display for 5 seconds to activate the self-cleaning function. This ensures a constant supply of fresh ice and enhances the ice maker's efficiency and longevity.
- User-friendly LCD Control: The multi-function control panel on the ice maker not only displays the ambient temperature, but also has water shortage and ice full reminder functions to help you replenish water or take ice in time. In addition, the clear LED indicator light ensures that you always understand the ice making process for easy operation.
- 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.
- [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.
- 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.
- [Chewable, Crunchable, Perfect Ice]: Enjoy premium sonic-style nugget ice—soft, crunchy, and perfectly chewable. Chills drinks fast without watering them down, making it ideal for cocktails, iced coffee, smoothies, and everyday refreshment
- [Fast, High-Capacity Ice Maker]: This nugget ice maker delivers soft, chewable ice fast. With a 1.5L water tank, it produces up to 35 lbs of pebble ice in 24 hours—perfect for home use or parties, so you’ll never need to buy ice again
- [Smart Self-Cleaning]: Automatically flushes before the first ice cycle and runs an auto-clean every three full batches to reduce scale buildup and keep the ice pathway clean
- [Ultimate Descaling Program]: Long-press the Cleaning button for 3 seconds to start a deep clean. Equipped with a high-pressure pump that thoroughly and powerfully flushes the ice-making channel, removing scale efficiently and ensuring cleaner, safer chewable nugget ice
- [Save Your Time]: Automatically starts the water cycle when powered on, stops when the ice bin is full, and resumes ice making when ice melts—reducing refill frequency and ensuring fresh ice anytime
- 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.
- 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 undercounter large ice maker is designed to provide rapid ice production, ensuring you never run out of ice. With its high-capacity ice-making capability,6 mins to start the ice,it can quickly generate 80 pounds of ice per day, making it ideal for both residential and commercial use.
- 【Soft and Crisp Curshed Ice】:The ice is crystal clear, easy to chew, and melts slowly, keeping the original flavor of your whiskey and cold beverages intact, so you can munch on flavored ice after your drink.Whether you need ice for beverages, salad bars, or seafood displays, this ice machine can meet your requirements.
- 【Two Ice Baskets】:Two ice baskets allow you to finish one round of ice making with a second basket to continue to store ice, the ice basket storage capacity is 9lbs each, so ice making never stops.
- 【User-Friendly Design】:Built with high-quality materials, The size is carefully designed as 16.3*33.1*15inch,this commercial ice maker is engineered to withstand the rigors of continuous use in a demanding commercial environment or home environment. The stainless steel exterior not only provides durability but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.
- 【LCD Control Panel for One-Touch Operation】:The intuitive control panel allows for simple operation, making it easy for anyone to operate the ice maker. On hot summer days, you can feel the cool nugget ice at the touch of a button, one-touch self-cleaning, 24-hour timer, and equipped with a water shortage reminder and ice full reminder to ensure that your ice cubes never stop.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Undercounter Sonic Ice Maker
An undercounter sonic ice maker brings movie-theater style ice right into your kitchen. These machines make nugget ice—those soft, chewable pieces that are perfect for sodas and cocktails. Choosing the right one involves looking closely at a few important things. This guide helps you pick the best model for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on what the machine actually *does*. These features make a big difference in your daily use.
Ice Production Rate
- Daily Output: Check how many pounds of ice the machine makes per 24 hours. If you host parties often, you need a higher number, maybe 30+ pounds. For daily family use, 20 pounds might be enough.
- First Batch Time: This is how fast you get your first batch of ice. Faster is always better when you are thirsty!
Storage Capacity
- The bin holds the ice once it’s made. Bigger bins mean you don’t run the machine as often. Think about how much ice your family uses in a typical day.
Noise Level
Since this machine sits under your counter, you don’t want it to be loud. Look for models that advertise low decibel (dB) operation. Quiet operation greatly improves the user experience.
Self-Cleaning Function
This feature is a lifesaver. A good self-cleaning cycle keeps the internal parts fresh without you having to manually scrub everything.
Important Materials Matter
The materials inside and outside the unit affect how long it lasts and how clean your ice stays.
Stainless Steel Construction
Most quality units use stainless steel for the exterior. This material resists rust and looks sleek in any kitchen. Inside, the components that touch the water must be food-grade plastic or stainless steel.
Insulation Quality
Good insulation keeps the ice from melting quickly inside the storage bin. Better insulation means less wasted water and less work for the machine.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all sonic ice makers perform the same. Pay attention to these details.
Water Filtration System
The quality of your ice depends on the quality of your water. Units that include or easily accept an external water filter make noticeably better-tasting ice. This feature significantly improves the final product.
Installation Requirements
Some units need a dedicated water line hookup and a drain line. Easy installation improves the initial user experience. Complex plumbing requirements can reduce the quality of your setup process.
Ice Quality (Hardness vs. Softness)
Sonic ice is naturally soft. However, some machines produce slightly denser nuggets than others. If you like very soft, airy ice, check user reviews specifically mentioning the texture.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to use this appliance.
Kitchen Hub
If you use it daily for family drinks, prioritize high daily production and an easy-to-access ice bin. You will be opening the door many times a day.
Home Bar or Entertainment Area
For cocktail lovers, the speed of production and the ability to keep up with frequent use are most important. A model that recovers ice quickly after heavy use is ideal for parties.
Counter Space and Aesthetics
Measure your space carefully! Undercounter models fit under standard cabinets, but depth and height matter. Choose a finish (like black, white, or stainless steel) that matches your existing appliances.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Undercounter Sonic Ice Makers
Q: What exactly is “Sonic Ice” or “Nugget Ice”?
A: Sonic ice is soft, chewable ice made by scraping ice flakes off a frozen cylinder. It is often called “chewable ice” or “pebble ice.”
Q: Do I need a separate water line for this machine?
A: Yes, most undercounter models require a dedicated cold water line connection for continuous operation.
Q: Does this ice melt faster than regular ice cubes?
A: Yes, because nugget ice has more surface area, it melts slightly faster than large, solid cubes. Good insulation helps slow this down.
Q: How often do I need to clean the machine?
A: Most manufacturers recommend running the self-cleaning cycle once a month, or more often if you use hard water.
Q: Can I install this unit myself?
A: Simple plug-in models exist, but most undercounter units require plumbing hookup. If you are not comfortable with plumbing, hire a professional installer.
Q: Will this machine keep ice frozen indefinitely?
A: No. These machines do not function like a deep freezer. If you don’t use the ice, the machine cycles on and off to replace ice that melts naturally in the bin.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a quality undercounter ice maker?
A: With regular maintenance and cleaning, a good unit should last between 8 to 15 years.
Q: Are these machines energy efficient?
A: Modern units are generally efficient. Look for an Energy Star rating, which indicates better energy performance.
Q: What factors cause the ice maker to stop producing ice?
A: Common issues include a clogged water filter, a closed water supply valve, or the storage bin being full.
Q: How much space do I need underneath my counter?
A: Standard undercounter height is about 34 inches. Always check the specific model’s cut-out dimensions before buying.
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!