5 Best Under-Counter Ice Makers for Entertaining

When hosting parties or big gatherings, having a reliable under-counter ice maker can make all the difference. These compact units, capable of producing up to 80 pounds of ice daily, keep drinks cold without cluttering your space. From clear, crescent, to bullet-shaped ice—each suited for different drinks and presentation styles—there’s a model for every need. Seeing how today’s options balance capacity, ease of use, and installation may change how you think about entertaining.

Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker with Drain Pump, 80Lbs/Day

If you need an under-counter ice maker that makes a lot of ice quickly, the Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker with a Drain Pump is a great choice. It can produce up to 80 pounds of clear ice each day. It makes ice fast, cycling every 15-20 minutes. This helps keep up even in busy places. The electric drain pump handles water from melted ice automatically, so you don’t have to do it by hand. This keeps the machine clean and fresh. It has a strong compressor and triple-layer insulation to keep the ice cold and ready. The size is small enough to fit in tight spaces, measuring about 18.5 inches deep, 15 inches wide, and 34 inches tall. This makes it easy to put in many different places, whether for a small business or a busy home.

Best For: Places or people who need a lot of ice fast, like bars, restaurants, or busy kitchens.

Pros:

• Makes 80 pounds of ice every day.
• Cycles quickly, in just 15-20 minutes.
• Has an electric drain pump and easy-to-use cleaning.
• Fits in small spaces and has adjustable ice thickness.

Cons:

• Needs a strong power supply.
• Slightly big for very small under-counter spots.
• Learning how to use all the features might take some time.

15 W Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine, 80 Lbs/Day

The W Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine makes ice quickly and fits neatly under your counter. It can produce up to 80 pounds of ice each day. This makes it a good choice for busy places like bars, restaurants, or catering services that need a lot of ice without taking up extra space.

The machine weighs around 75 pounds. It has a clean, shiny stainless steel build that’s easy to clean. Its inside parts are food-grade and protected with three layers of insulation. This helps keep the ice from melting too fast. It makes about 32 clear ice cubes every 11 to 20 minutes. This means you always have plenty of ice when you need it.

The compact size is 15W x 21D x 33H inches. This makes it easy to fit under most counters. Its built-in design has front ventilation, so it’s simple to install and keep running smoothly.

This ice maker is ideal for high-use places where many people need ice quickly. It’s perfect for busy bars, restaurants, or events that need lots of ice on demand.

Pros:

• Produces 80 pounds of ice a day
• Quick cycle time of 11-20 minutes per batch
• Compact size fits under most counters
• Made of durable stainless steel
• Has a self-cleaning feature to make maintenance easier

Cons:

• May be too big for small or low-use homes
• Some users find it noisy or face minor issues
• Needs regular filter changes and maintenance to keep working well

COTLIN 15W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker

The COTLIN 15W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker is a good choice for people who want a steady supply of ice without the fuss of drainage pipes. It’s made from tough brushed stainless steel, so it’s easy to keep clean and lasts a long time. It can store up to 22 pounds of ice, which works well for homes or small businesses. The machine is compact, standing about 33.8 inches tall, 14.9 inches wide, and 18.6 inches deep. This size lets it fit easily under most kitchen counters.

The special feature of this ice maker is its drainless design. This means you don’t need to worry about connecting it to a drain. All you need is a water supply and power to set it up. You can also adjust the position easily because of its flexible design.

Who it’s for: This ice maker is perfect for homeowners or small to mid-sized business owners who want a reliable, low-maintenance machine. It gives you a lot of ice and is simple to install.

Pros:

• No need for drain pipes, making set-up quick and easy.
• Made from tough brushed stainless steel, easy to clean.
• Produces high-quality crescent-shaped ice fast, great for drinks and parties.

Cons:

• Stores only 22 pounds of ice, which might not be enough for very big businesses.
• Its small size can make it hard to reach inside when cleaning or fixing.
• It costs a bit more upfront than models with drainage pipes.

This ice maker is simple to use and easy to maintain. It offers a good amount of ice in a compact size. If you want a machine that is quick to install and doesn’t need a drain, the COTLIN 15W is a solid choice.

ecozy 15″ Under Counter Ice Maker Machine

The ecozy 15″ Under Counter Ice Maker Machine is a great choice if you want a reliable machine that makes lots of ice and fits in a small space. It can make up to 80 pounds of ice each day. That’s enough for about 320 drinks! It makes about 40 ice cubes every 15-20 minutes, so you won’t run out fast. The ice cubes are big and bullet-shaped, and they have a hole in the middle so they’re easy to handle. You can also change how thick the cubes are. The machine’s insulation keeps the ice frozen for 6-8 hours, even if the power goes out.

Made with strong, rust-resistant stainless steel, this ice maker is built to last. It uses less energy and is certified safe to use. It also has self-cleaning features, making it easy to keep clean. Its small size and reversible door make it simple to install under your counter or in tight spaces.

Best For: families, parties, or small commercial spots that need a high-capacity, dependable ice maker that fits in a small space.

Pros:

• Makes up to 80 pounds of ice a day. It makes about 40 cubes every 15-20 minutes. Perfect for big gatherings or lots of use.
• Small size and reversible door make it easy to fit in tight spots and set up.
• Uses less energy, is safe to use, and cleans itself easily, saving you time and effort.

Cons:

• Some people say it makes noise when working, and the fans need space so it might be loud in quiet places.
• A few units have had damage during shipping or don’t last as long. Sometimes the ice cubes are too big or need breaking up.
• It has limited warranty options, and some users find customer service hard to reach for help or refunds.

This ice maker is perfect if you need a powerful machine that doesn’t take up much room. It’s easy to use, makes plenty of ice, and keeps your drinks cold every day.

Coolake 15-Inch Commercial Under-Counter Ice Maker Machine

The Coolake 15-Inch Commercial Under-Counter Ice Maker Machine is good for both home and business use. It can make up to 100 pounds of ice each day. It has a 30-pound storage space, so you always have enough ice ready. The machine looks nice with a shiny stainless steel finish, which also makes it durable. You can put it under a counter or set it up on its own because it has flexible installation options.

This ice maker makes clear, restaurant-quality ice cubes quickly. The cubes melt less and don’t water down your drinks. It is easy to use, with simple controls. It also cleans itself and runs quietly, so it doesn’t make much noise.

This machine is perfect for homeowners, bartenders, or outdoor party hosts. It provides a lot of ice fast, is reliable, and looks great.

Pros:

• Makes up to 100 pounds of ice each day, with a 30-pound storage capacity
• Looks stylish with a stainless steel finish
• Quiet operation and easy to use controls
• Can be installed under the counter or used as a free-standing unit

Cons:

• Needs to be leveled and installed properly to work well
• Needs regular cleaning to keep it working efficiently
• Setting it up can take a few hours to get it running smoothly

Factors to Consider When Choosing Under-counter Ice Makers for Entertaining

When selecting an under-counter ice maker for entertaining, you need to think about how much ice you’ll require daily, which depends on your guest list and event size, typically ranging from 25 to 50 pounds of ice per day. Ease of water connection is also vital; some units connect directly to your water line, while others require manual filling, affecting convenience and installation. Finally, consider the unit’s size to guarantee it fits comfortably in your space, the quality of ice produced—whether clear or cloudy—and how loud the machine operates during use, as these factors will influence your overall entertainment experience.

Capacity Requirements

Choosing the right capacity for your under-counter ice maker is important. First, think about how much ice you need each day. If you host small gatherings, you might need about 40 pounds of ice. For bigger parties, you may need over 100 pounds. Knowing how fast the machine makes ice helps too. Some machines make about 80 pounds every 15 to 20 minutes. This can keep drinks cold during your event.

Next, check the storage size. Most machines can hold between 24 and 30 pounds of ice. Make sure this is enough for your guests’ needs. It’s also helpful to pick an ice maker that can produce enough ice quickly if you have many people. This way, you won’t run out during busy times.

Finally, think about how long it takes for the machine to make a new batch of ice. Pick a machine that can keep up with your schedule. With the right size and speed, your ice machine will work well for your parties and daily use.

Water Connection Ease

Connecting water to your under-counter ice maker should be simple. Some ice makers connect directly to your home water line using standard fittings. These units often come with quick-connect adapters, making installation quick and easy. Other models have manual filling options or built-in tanks, so you don’t need to do any plumbing. Many units include filters or sediment systems. These help make better ice and make your machine last longer. Look for models with inlet connections like garden hose adapters or quick-connect fittings. These make DIY setup easier without needing a plumber. Check the inlet sizes and drain type to match your water and drain setup. Doing this ensures your ice maker works well and stays easy to use.

Size and Space Fit

Making sure your under-counter ice maker fits just right takes some simple measurements and planning. First, measure the space where you want to put the machine. Check the height, width, and depth. Most under-counter models are between 14 and 18 inches wide and about 33 inches tall. Some might be a little bigger or smaller, so it’s good to double-check.

Next, look at how deep the machine can be. Make sure it fits with your countertops and cabinets. You want it to slide in easily without blocking other appliances or doors. Also, see if the door on the ice maker flips open or stays fixed. Pick the option that works best for your space.

Finally, leave a little space around the ice maker. This helps air flow better and makes it easier to keep the machine clean and working well. With a little planning, your ice maker will fit perfectly and work smoothly for a long time.

Ice Quality Options

Have you noticed how the type of ice your under-counter machine makes can make your drinks look and taste better? Different types of ice serve different needs.

Clear ice is popular in fancy cocktails. It forms slowly, which makes it clear and free of air and dirt. These ice cubes look nice and last a long time in your drink. Crescent-shaped ice has a curved shape. It melts more slowly, so it keeps drinks cold longer. It’s perfect for cocktails and fancy drinks. Bullet-shaped ice is bigger with holes. It melts at a medium speed. This type of ice works well for smoothies or outdoor parties.

Choosing the right ice depends on what you like. Think about how your ice looks and how long it stays cold. Each type of ice can make your drinks look good and stay cold longer. Picking the right kind helps make your parties more fun and your drinks more enjoyable.

Noise Levels

When you pick an under-counter ice maker for fun gatherings, noise level matters. Most models make sounds between 40 and 60 decibels. That’s similar to a normal chat or background music. Some ice makers are quieter. They use special insulation and quieter parts to keep noise down. These quieter models are good if your space is open, and you want it to stay calm.

If the ice maker makes loud noises, it could mean a problem. It might be a broken compressor or bad airflow. Listen closely to the sound when it runs. To keep the noise low, put the ice maker away from where people sit or eat. You can also add soundproof material if needed. Proper placement helps. Regular cleaning and checking parts can stop noise from growing louder as time passes. Doing these simple things keeps your ice-maker quiet and makes your gatherings more fun.

Maintenance Needs

Taking good care of your under-counter ice maker helps it work well and make fresh ice. Clean the machine regularly. Doing this once a month or after heavy use keeps dirt, minerals, and germs away. Many ice makers have a button that turns on an automatic cleaning cycle. Just press the button, and it will clean itself.

Change the water filter every 3 to 4 months. This keeps the ice clear and stops clogs that can slow down ice making. If you move or store the unit, keep it upright for at least 24 hours before turning it on again. This helps prevent damage inside the machine.

Remove ice from the bin often. This stops blockages that can slow production or cause problems. Taking these simple steps helps your ice maker stay in good shape and always produce high-quality ice.

FAQs

How Do Under-Counter Ice Makers Compare to Standalone Units?

You’ll find under-counter ice makers more convenient and space-saving, fitting seamlessly into your kitchen. They offer quick, consistent ice production, unlike standalone units, which can be bulkier and less integrated into your entertaining setup.

What Maintenance Is Required for These Ice Makers?

You just need to clean your under-counter ice maker regularly, change filters as recommended, and guarantee proper water supply. Keep it dry around the unit and check for ice buildup to maintain excellent performance and longevity.

Can These Ice Makers Operate in Different Climate Conditions?

Your ice maker’s ability to operate in various climates depends on its insulation, ventilation, and design. You should guarantee proper setup in warmer or cooler environments to prevent overheating or freezing issues, maximizing its performance regardless of climate.

Are There Energy-Efficient Options Available?

Yes, there are energy-efficient under-counter ice makers available. Look for models with ENERGY STAR certification, which use less power, save you money, and help reduce your environmental impact while keeping your drinks cold all night.

How Long Does It Take to Produce a Full Batch of Ice?

You’ll find that most under-counter ice makers produce a full batch within 20 to 30 minutes. Depending on the model, it might take slightly longer, but they’re designed to keep ice coming efficiently during your parties.

Last update on 2025-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API