Imagine this: you’re hosting a party, and the ice bin is almost empty. Or maybe you’re just trying to make a perfect iced coffee on a hot afternoon, only to find your ice maker is slow or broken. It’s a common frustration, right? Getting the right amount of ice, at the right time, can make a big difference in your daily life and entertaining. But when it comes to choosing an under-counter ice maker, the choices can feel overwhelming. What size do you need? What features are important? It’s easy to feel stuck.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about under-counter ice makers. We’ll help you understand the different types, what to look for in terms of capacity and performance, and how to pick the one that best fits your kitchen and your lifestyle. By the end of this post, you’ll have the confidence to choose an ice maker that keeps your drinks perfectly chilled, without the stress.
So, let’s dive in and make sure you’re never caught without ice again!
Our Top 5 Under Counter Ice Makers Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Counter Ice Makers Detailed Reviews
1. EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine
Rating: 9.0/10
Are you tired of running out of ice, especially when you have guests over? The EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine is here to solve that problem! This sleek, stainless steel machine can make a whopping 100 pounds of ice every 24 hours. It also has a storage bin that holds 33 pounds of ice, so you’ll always have plenty on hand. Whether you’re using it at home for parties or in your restaurant, this ice maker is a game-changer.
What We Like:
- It makes a lot of ice – 100 lbs per day!
- It has a large storage capacity of 33 lbs.
- It’s ETL certified, meaning it’s safe for commercial use.
- You can use it at home or in businesses like restaurants and hotels.
- The smart LCD panel lets you control everything, including ice cube size and cleaning.
- It makes ice quietly, so it won’t disturb you.
- It’s energy-efficient, helping you save money on electricity bills.
- The automatic overflow prevention means no messy spills.
What Could Be Improved:
- The machine requires a water supply and a drain.
- You need to clean it regularly to keep it working well.
- It needs to be kept upright for 24 hours before the first use.
This EUHOMY ice maker is a fantastic addition for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient ice supply. It offers great performance and convenience for both home and commercial settings.
2. EUHOMY 15″ W Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine
Rating: 9.1/10
Looking for a reliable ice maker that keeps up with your busy life? The EUHOMY 15″ W Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine is a game-changer for any kitchen, bar, or restaurant. It makes a lot of ice quickly, so you’ll always have enough for your guests or family. Plus, its sleek design fits right under your counter or can stand on its own.
What We Like:
- It makes up to 90 lbs of ice every day, which is great for parties or busy business days.
- You get 40 ice cubes every 10-18 minutes, so ice is ready when you need it.
- The 24 lb ice bin holds plenty of ice.
- Its compact size fits under most counters, but it can also be a freestanding unit.
- The reversible door lets you pick which way it opens.
- The insulation keeps ice from melting too fast.
- You can change how thick the ice cubes are using the easy-to-use LCD panel.
- The auto-cleaning feature makes upkeep simple.
- It has a timer so you can set it to make ice when you want.
What Could Be Improved:
- The machine needs a water supply, and the drain pipe must be lower than the machine for gravity drainage to work properly.
- It’s recommended to keep the unit upright for 24 hours before first use.
This ice maker is a fantastic addition to any home or business needing a steady supply of ice. Its smart features and efficient design make it a worthwhile investment.
3. COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker with 22LBS Storage Bin
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your home or business with the new COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker. This 2025 upgraded model offers a sleek brushed stainless steel finish that’s both stylish and easy to clean. It makes perfect crescent-shaped ice cubes that keep your drinks colder for longer. Plus, its drainless design makes installation a breeze, saving you time and money.
What We Like:
- The drainless design means no complicated plumbing, making installation super simple. You can do it yourself!
- It makes beautiful crescent-shaped ice cubes that are great for cocktails and other drinks.
- The ice stays really cold, between 26.6-32°F, so your drinks won’t get watery.
- It has a good-sized 22-pound storage bin, so you’ll always have plenty of ice.
- The reversible door and adjustable feet offer flexibility for fitting it into your space.
- It’s ETL approved, meaning it meets high safety and quality standards.
- COTLIN offers lifetime service support, giving you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The ice production rate isn’t mentioned, which might be important for busy commercial settings.
- While it’s designed for under-counter use, the exact clearance needed for ventilation isn’t specified.
This COTLIN ice maker is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for convenient, high-quality ice. Its user-friendly design and excellent features make it a worthy addition to any kitchen or bar.
4. YITAHOME 130lbs Ice Maker Machine Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker
Rating: 8.7/10
The YITAHOME 130lbs Ice Maker Machine is a powerful and versatile appliance. It’s perfect for homes, cafes, bars, and restaurants. This machine makes a lot of ice and keeps it cold. It’s also designed to be safe and quiet.
What We Like:
- It makes a lot of ice, up to 130 pounds in 24 hours.
- It makes 44 clear ice cubes every 8 to 15 minutes.
- You can change the size of the ice cubes.
- The machine is made of safe materials like stainless steel and has a food-grade liner.
- It runs quietly, so it won’t disturb you.
- It uses less energy than older models.
- The ice stays frozen for a longer time, up to 8 hours.
- It has smart controls that make it easy to use and clean.
- It tells you when the ice bin is full or when it needs water.
What Could Be Improved:
- The storage bin capacity is 17lbs, which might be a bit small for very busy commercial settings.
- While it’s great for home use, the “commercial” label might suggest a need for more heavy-duty features for constant, high-volume restaurant use.
This YITAHOME ice maker offers great convenience and efficiency for anyone needing a steady supply of ice. It balances performance with user-friendly features for a satisfying experience.
5. EUHOMY Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine
Rating: 9.3/10
Looking for a reliable ice maker that can handle both busy restaurants and home gatherings? The EUHOMY Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine is a powerful solution. It makes a lot of ice fast, has a good amount of storage, and includes helpful features like auto-cleaning and a drain pump. Its sleek stainless steel design fits right under your counter or can stand alone.
What We Like:
- It makes 100 lbs of ice every day, so you won’t run out.
- You get 40 clear ice cubes every 10-18 minutes.
- The 24 lb storage bin keeps ice ready.
- It has an electric drain pump, so water drains easily without needing special placement.
- The reversible door lets you choose which way it opens.
- The 3-layer housing keeps ice from melting too quickly.
- The LCD control panel is easy to use and lets you adjust ice thickness.
- The 24-hour timer is handy for scheduling.
- The auto-cleaning function makes upkeep simple.
- Its compact size fits well in kitchens or bars.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires a water supply connection.
- The machine needs to stay upright for 24 hours before its first use.
- If the drain pump isn’t used, you must empty the ice bucket manually.
This EUHOMY ice maker is a great choice for anyone needing a steady supply of ice. Its smart features and strong build make it a practical addition to any kitchen or business.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect Under Counter Ice Maker
Thinking about getting an under-counter ice maker? They’re a fantastic way to have fresh ice always ready for your drinks, parties, or just a cool glass of water. This guide will help you pick the best one for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features.
- Ice Production Rate: How much ice can it make in a day? This is usually measured in pounds per day. If you entertain a lot, you’ll want a machine that makes more ice.
- Storage Capacity: How much ice can the bin hold? A bigger bin means you won’t have to run the machine as often.
- Ice Shape: Ice makers can make different shapes of ice. Some common ones are cube, crescent, and nugget ice. Nugget ice is soft and chewable. Cube ice is good for drinks.
- Water Filtration: Does it have a built-in water filter? This makes your ice taste cleaner and fresher. It also helps keep the machine working well.
- Drainage Type: Most under-counter ice makers need a way to drain melted ice. Some have a pump to push water up and out, while others need a gravity drain. Make sure you know which type you need for your space.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for models that are Energy Star certified. They use less electricity, which saves you money.
- Noise Level: Some ice makers can be a bit noisy when they’re making ice. Check reviews to see how loud a model is.
Important Materials
The materials used in an ice maker can affect how long it lasts and how well it works.
- Stainless Steel: Many good ice makers use stainless steel for the exterior. It’s strong, looks nice, and is easy to clean.
- Plastic: The ice bin and some internal parts are often made of plastic. Look for durable, food-grade plastic.
- Copper and Aluminum: These metals are often used in the cooling system. Copper is a good conductor of heat, which helps make ice faster.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one ice maker better than another?
- Good Insulation: A well-insulated ice bin keeps ice from melting too quickly. This means less ice is wasted.
- Reliable Cooling System: A strong and efficient cooling system makes ice faster and more consistently.
- Easy Cleaning: Machines that are easy to take apart and clean will stay in better condition. Some have self-cleaning cycles.
- Brand Reputation: Buying from a trusted brand often means you’re getting a quality product and good customer service.
- Poor Drainage: If the drainage system doesn’t work well, melted ice can build up and cause problems.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your ice maker.
- Home Bars: If you love making cocktails, an under-counter ice maker is perfect for your home bar. You’ll always have ice for your guests.
- Kitchen Islands: Placing one under a kitchen island gives you easy access to ice while you’re cooking or preparing food.
- Outdoor Kitchens: Some models are designed for outdoor use. They can handle different weather conditions and provide ice for backyard parties.
- Busy Families: If your family uses a lot of ice, an under-counter model can be a real time-saver. No more running out of ice!
- Small Spaces: These machines fit neatly under counters, so they don’t take up extra space in your kitchen or bar area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much ice do I really need?
A: Think about how many people are in your household and how often you have guests. If you entertain often, you’ll need a machine that makes at least 25-50 pounds of ice per day. For smaller households, 15-25 pounds might be enough.
Q: Do I need a drain line?
A: Yes, most under-counter ice makers need a drain line to remove melted ice. Some have a built-in pump to help with drainage, which is useful if you don’t have a drain nearby.
Q: Can I install it myself?
A: Installation can be tricky. It often involves connecting to a water line and a drain. If you’re not comfortable with plumbing, it’s best to hire a professional.
Q: What kind of ice do most under-counter ice makers make?
A: Many make clear, solid cubes. Some also offer crescent-shaped ice or nugget ice, which is softer and chewable.
Q: How often do I need to clean it?
A: It’s a good idea to clean your ice maker every 6 months. This keeps the ice tasting fresh and prevents mold or mildew.
Q: Will it make my kitchen noisy?
A: Most modern ice makers are designed to be quiet. However, you might hear some humming or water sounds when it’s in operation. Reading reviews can give you an idea of a specific model’s noise level.
Q: Can I use filtered water?
A: Yes, using filtered water is highly recommended. It improves the taste of the ice and helps prevent mineral buildup in the machine.
Q: What is the difference between a freestanding and an under-counter ice maker?
A: Freestanding ice makers are separate units that can be placed anywhere. Under-counter ice makers are built into your cabinetry, saving space and offering a sleeker look.
Q: How long do under-counter ice makers typically last?
A: With proper maintenance and cleaning, an under-counter ice maker can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years.
Q: Are there ice makers that don’t require a water line?
A: No, all under-counter ice makers require a connection to a water supply to make ice. They cannot be filled manually like some portable ice makers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
William has over three years of experience in building gazebos. He started AskGazebo.com to assist his clients.