Everyone loves ice. We use it in a thousand different ways: to make mixed drinks, to cool us down on a hot day, to bag it to cool a sore or swollen joint, or as a snack when we are homesick.
For many people, ice made from trays or built-in Best Residential Ice Maker is sufficient, but others consume far more ice than can be produced by these small machines and methods. By producing ice in large quantities, you can have the amount of ice you need when you need it and not have to buy a 10-pound bag from the neighborhood store when you are entertaining.
While many machines are very good, some are just not worth the money, and it can be difficult to tell the difference right from the start. That’s where this buying guide comes in. Here is a brief overview of what a good ice machine looks like and what makes a great under-counter ice machine.
Also Read: Best Countertop Oven For Baking
Best Residential Ice Maker
What is an under-counter ice maker?
An under-counter ice maker is a separate device from a refrigerator. They are installed under the counter in the same way as dishwashers and beverage coolers to produce fresh ice at all times.
Types of Undercounter Ice Machines
When purchasing an under-counter ice maker, you need to make a stylistic decision.
Built-in, freestanding, or portable
Built-in ice makers are installed directly into kitchen cabinets and fit snugly under the counter.
Stand-alone ice makers are self-contained ice makers that do not need to be built in. Stand-alone ice makers often have finished sides and vented fronts.
Portable ice machines are generally smaller. They can be placed anywhere near a power source, either on or under the counter. The disadvantage is that the water for this ice maker must be filled by hand, but the advantage is that there is no need to install new piping to supply water to the ice maker.
Tray, bin, and bucket types
Tray-type ice machines have a removable storage bin.
Bucket-type ice machines store ice in removable stainless steel buckets.
Tray-type ice machines are like small refrigerators with ice inside, some with dispensers.
Indoor or outdoor (some can do both!).
Outdoor ice machines are designed to withstand rain, wind, and snow. This means they can use more weather-resistant materials for components such as door panels, door hinges, and fan motors. It is also important that outdoor ice machines can make ice regardless of changes in outside temperature, so there is no need to worry about the machine shutting down during extreme heat or snowstorms. Some ice machines, like True Residential’s ice machines, can be installed indoors or outdoors.
Best Residential Ice Maker | Comparison Table 2023
5-Stars Pick | Great Prices | High Quality
Image | Title | Buy | |
---|---|---|---|
(Refurbished) GE Profile Opal | Countertop Nugget Ice Maker | GE Major Appliances | Check Price | |
Igloo ICEB26HNSS Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker Machine With Handle, 26 Pounds in 24 Hours, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 7 minutes, With Ice Scoop and Basket, Stainless | Igloo | Check Price | |
EdgeStar IB120SS Built in Ice Maker, 12 lbs, Stainless Steel and Black | EdgeStar | Check Price | |
Frigidaire EFIC117-SS 26 Pound Ice Maker, 26 lbs per day, Silver | FRIGIDAIRE | Check Price | |
Newair 30 Lb. Countertop Nugget Ice Maker with Slim, Space-Saving Design, A Self-Cleaning Function, Automatic Water Line and Refillable Water Tank | NewAir | Check Price | |
Euhomy Ice Maker Machine Countertop, 40Lbs/24H Auto Self-Cleaning, 24 pcs Ice Cube in 13 Mins, Portable Compact Ice Cube Maker, with Ice Scoop & Basket, Perfect for Home/Kitchen/Office/Bar (Silver) | E EUHOMY | Check Price | |
hOmeLabs Freestanding Commercial Ice Maker Machine - Makes 99 Pounds Ice in 24 hrs with 29 Pounds Storage Capacity - Ideal for Restaurants, Bars, Homes and Offices - Includes Scoop and Connection Hose | hOmeLabs | Check Price | |
Magic Chef MCIM22ST 27 lb Ice Maker Stainless Steel | Magic Chef | Check Price | |
Frigidaire EFIC103-AMZ-SC Counter Top Maker with Over-Sized Ice Bucket, Stainless Steel, Self Cleaning Function, Heavy Duty, Stainless | FRIGIDAIRE | Check Price |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Best Residential Ice Maker | Reviews 2023
1. (Refurbished) GE Profile Opal | Best Residential Ice Maker
- COUNTERTOP SIZE: With it’s elegant design, the Opal will wow your guests before they even try the delicious ice it makes. Measures at 15. 5 x 14.25 x 17. 2 inches. The perfect size for any countertop in your home.
- QUICK & POWERFUL: Within only 20 minutes, you’ll be enjoying soft, crunchy ice, just like the ice you love from your favorite restaurant. The Opal produces 24 lbs. of ice per day, and the bin holds 3 lbs. at a time.
- SMART: The Opal is Bluetooth equipped, so you can set up your ice making schedule from the convenience of your phone using the free GE Profile Opal app. It senses when the bin is full of ice, so it won’t overfill.
- PORTABLE: No water hookup required, just plug it into any 120v grounded (standard) electrical outlet and fill the reservoir with water. As ice melts, the water returns to the reservoir, where it will simply be made back into more ice.
- WARRANTY: GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Makers purchased directly from authorized resellers have a limited 1-year parts and labor.
- MATERIALS: Stainless Steel, Plastic
Product Overview:
The GE Profile Opal Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is a stylish and powerful addition to any kitchen or home bar. Measuring at 15.5 x 14.25 x 17.2 inches, it is the perfect size for any countertop. With its elegant design, it will wow your guests before they even try the delicious ice it makes.
One of the most impressive features of the Opal is its speed. Within only 20 minutes, you’ll be enjoying soft, crunchy ice, just like the ice you love from your favorite restaurant. The Opal produces 24 lbs. of ice per day, and the bin holds 3 lbs. at a time, so you’ll always have a steady supply of ice on hand.
Another great feature of the Opal is its smart technology. It is Bluetooth equipped, so you can set up your ice making schedule from the convenience of your phone using the free GE Profile Opal app. It also senses when the bin is full of ice, so it won’t overfill, meaning you’ll never have to worry about running out of space for your ice.
- Elegant design that will impress guests
- Quick and powerful ice making capabilities
- Bluetooth equipped and app-controlled for convenience
- Portable and doesn’t require a water hookup
- Limited 1-year parts and labor warranty
- The bin holds only 3lbs of ice at a time
- Needs to be plugged into a standard electrical outlet
- Limited warranty for 1-year for parts and labor only.
Buy on Amazon
Also Read: Best Portable Oven For Baking
2. Igloo ICEB26HNSS Residential ice Maker 2023
- DESIGNED FOR CONVENIENCE: Convenient and compact in size, this ice maker looks good on a countertop while producing ice for whenever or wherever you need it
- LARGE ICE MAKING CAPACITY: Keep the 2 quart water tank filled and this unit will produce 26 pounds of ice in a 24 hour period ; enough to keep drinks cold all day long
- CARRY HANDLE: Carry handle is attached to the ice maker, making it convenient to move wherever it needs to go
- SELF CLEANING: Automatic 5 cycle cleaning function makes clean up easy and effortless, allowing for cleaner ice every time
- ICE BASKET CAPACITY: Stores up to 1. 25 pounds of ice at a time so you can keep your drinks ice cold
- QUICK FREEZING ICE: Makes 9 small or large cylinder shaped ice cubes in as little as 7 minutes
- CONTROL PANEL: Simple to understand and illuminated with LED lights, the electronic control panel lets you know when you need to add water, when the ice basket is full and allows you to choose the size of the ice cubes
- TRANSPARENT LID: Large clear lid allows for easy viewing of ice cube capacity
- REMOVABLE ICE BASKET: Ice basket easily removes to transfer ice cubes
- DRAIN PLUG: Remove to easily drain water from the unit when not in use
- Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker Machine With Handle, 26 Pounds in 24 Hours, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 7 minutes, With Ice Scoop and Basket, Stainless
Product Overview:
The Igloo ICEB26HNSS Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker Machine is a convenient and compact option for creating ice on-demand. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great on any countertop, and the carry handle makes it easy to move from room to room. With a 2 quart water tank capacity, this unit can produce up to 26 pounds of ice in a 24 hour period, ensuring that you always have enough ice to keep your drinks cold.
One of the standout features of this ice maker is its automatic 5 cycle cleaning function, which makes clean up easy and effortless. This allows for cleaner ice every time, without the need for manual scrubbing or cleaning. The ice basket has a capacity of 1.25 pounds and can be easily removed to transfer ice cubes to your drinks. Additionally, the machine can make 9 small or large cylinder shaped ice cubes in as little as 7 minutes, so you never have to wait long for ice.
- Convenient and compact design.
- Large ice making capacity of 26 pounds in 24 hours.
- Carry handle for easy portability.
- Automatic self-cleaning function for easy maintenance.
- Quick freezing ice, 9 small or large cylinder shaped ice cubes in as little as 7 minutes.
- The water tank can only hold 2 quart of water.
- The ice basket only stores up to 1.25 pounds of ice at a time.
- There is no water filter.
Buy on Amazon
3. EdgeStar IB120SS Top Residential Ice Maker
- Front venting for built-in or freestanding installation; ADA Height Compliant
- 25 foot long 1/4 water line connection included; Reversible door for left or right hand swing; Ice scoop included
- Easy, convenient, and inexpensive installation; On/off power switch; Auto shut-off when ice bin is full
- Produces up to 12 pounds of ice per day; Stores up to 6 pounds of ice; Dimensions 25 1/4 H x 15 W x 18 1/2 D
- This unit also operates as a freezer and will keep your ice frozen; No drain line required
- Built in Ice Maker, 12 lbs, Stainless Steel and Black
Product Overview:
The EdgeStar IB120SS Built-in Ice Maker is a high-quality ice maker that is perfect for both built-in and freestanding installation. Its front venting design makes it compliant with ADA height requirements, making it accessible to everyone. The unit comes with a 25-foot long 1/4" water line connection, allowing for easy and convenient installation. It also has a reversible door that can be swung open from either the left or the right side, and an included ice scoop for easy ice retrieval.
This ice maker has an on/off power switch and an auto shut-off feature that activates when the ice bin is full, ensuring that you never run out of ice. It has the capability of producing up to 12 pounds of ice per day and can store up to 6 pounds of ice at a time.
- Front venting for built-in or freestanding installation
- ADA height compliant
- 25-foot long 1/4″ water line connection included
- Reversible door for left or right hand swing
- Auto shut-off when ice bin is full
- The unit must be plugged into power source.
- The ice storage is only 6 pounds
- The unit operates as a freezer, which may not be suitable for some users.
Buy on Amazon
Also Read: Best Lunch Cooler For Construction Workers
4. Frigidaire Best Residential Ice Maker 2023
- Makes 26 lbs of Ice in Two Different Sizes
- 2.3 Quart Reservoir - Soft-Touch Electronic Controls
- Controls with LED Indicators - Built-in air outlet fan
- No installation required - just plug in unit, add water and enjoy a batch of ice
- 26 Pound Ice Maker, 26 lbs per day, Silver
- Sleek, space-saving and incredibly quiet, the stainless steel Frigidaire
- At 14.5 inches deep, 11.7 inches wide and 15 inches high
- machine can make ice in less than 7 minutes and can produce up to 26 pounds of ice in 24 hours.
Product Overview:
The Frigidaire EFIC117-SS is a portable ice maker that is perfect for those who want to enjoy a steady supply of ice without having to constantly purchase bags from the store. With a daily production of 26 lbs, this ice maker can keep up with even the highest demand. The ice maker has a sleek and stylish design, featuring a stainless steel exterior, silver lid and a see-through window that allows you to keep an eye on the ice production.
The ice maker comes with soft-touch electronic controls that are easy to use and have LED indicators to let you know when the ice is ready. The 2.3 quart reservoir ensures that you have plenty of ice on hand at all times, while the built-in air outlet fan helps to keep the ice from melting. The convenient, compact design of the Frigidaire EFIC117-SS makes it ideal for use in small kitchens, RVs, boats, dorm rooms, and other compact spaces.
- Makes 26 lbs of ice per day.
- Has two different ice size settings.
- Has soft-touch electronic controls with LED indicators.
- Has a built-in air outlet fan to prevent melting.
- No installation required, plug-and-play.
- Limited ice storage capacity.
- Only has one color option.
- May not be suitable for large households or commercial use.
Buy on Amazon
5. Newair Residential Ice Maker
- Portable Design, Outsized Production: This compact ice maker makes 30 pounds of ice each day — and looks great doing it. That’s almost the same as purchasing three 10lb bags of store-bought ice in a single day.
- Self Cleaning: Our nugget Ice maker comes with a Self-cleaning function that keeps out impurities and improves ice flavor.
- Clean Water Makes Perfect Ice: The Nugget Ice maker comes with an automatic water line and refillable water tank provide options for clean water sources.
- High Quality Ice Every-time: Not only does our Nugget Ice Maker make Ice fast it also provides restaurant-quality, addictively chewable nugget ice in your own home.
- SIMPLE USE - Theres no learning curve here! Simply turn the unit on and choose your ice size. Clear indicator lights let you know when ice is ready and when you need to add water without any guesswork.
- 30 Lb. Countertop Nugget Ice Maker with Slim, Space-Saving Design, A Self-Cleaning Function, Automatic Water Line and Refillable Water Tank
Product Overview:
The Newair Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is a high-quality appliance that can produce up to 30lbs of ice per day, making it perfect for parties, events, or simply keeping your home or office well-stocked with ice. The ice maker can produce restaurant-quality, chewable nugget ice in just 10 minutes, so you'll never have to wait long for a cold drink.
One of the standout features of this ice maker is its self-cleaning function, which helps to keep impurities and impurities out of the ice, ensuring that it always has a great taste. Additionally, the ice maker offers two ways to refill the water tank: you can hook up the included water line or remove the basket and fill the reservoir manually. The large window on the top of the unit allows you to easily see the ice being made and when it is ready.
- Can produce up to 30lbs of ice per day.
- Makes restaurant-quality, chewable nugget ice in just 10 minutes.
- Self-cleaning function keeps impurities out of the ice.
- Offers two ways to refill the water tank.
- Large window allows you to easily see the ice being made.
- It requires a water line connection to use.
- The unit is larger than other countertop ice makers.
- It may be more expensive than other models.
Buy on Amazon
Also Read: Best Slow Cooker With Browning Feature
6. Euhomy Residential Ice Maker Machine
- HIGH-QUALITY ICE CUBES - Euhomy’s countertop ice maker machine can produces 24 ice cubes per cycle (every 12 to 18 minutes). That means you can make up to 40 pounds of ice cubes every 24 hours. Best of all, you can adjust the thickness of the ice cubes according to your needs, letting you create perfect drinks. AUTOMATIC CLEANING FUNCTION - Press TIMER button for more than 5 seconds to enter the automatic cleaning function. (Please clean your ice machine regularly)
- LCD & DIGITAL DISPLAY - Electronic controls for ease of use. Features an easy-to-read push-button digital design for a comfortable use. Timer with up to 8-hour delay. Offers on-time ice production. When there is not enough water in the water tank, the indicator will light up, reminding you to add more water. Or when the ice bucket is full, the ice maker it will remind you to remove the extra ice cubes, so the ice maker can start to make more ice.
- WATER RECYCLING SYSTEM - Counter ice maker machine holds up to 2.2 liters of water, minimizing how often you need to refill it. When filled, it can produce 5 cycles of ice cubes, making 120 ice cubes! It contains a recycling system, collecting melted water and filtering it to be reused ensuring that no water is wasted. It may sound high-tech, but all you have to do is open the cover of the water reservoir, pour in water, and you are ready to start making delicious ice cubes.
- EFFICIENT & QUIET COOLING - Portable ice maker countertop top rated prime is equipped with the most advanced refrigeration technology. We use efficient compressors in order to ensure that your ice maker will produce the highest quality ice cubes. Also, this is not a noisy, heat producing appliance. Best ice makers countertop are equipped with a quick and quiet cooling system. This not only helps you save energy, but it also keeps nugget ice machine cool and ensures a quiet environment.
- USER-FRIENDLY - Free standing design stainless steel portable ice maker allows versatile placement. Idea for you home, office, kitchen, bar or coffee shop. The removable ice basket stores up to 2.2 lbs. of ice at a time, ensuring that you have ice ready whenever you need it, and it comes with an ice scoop to facilitate ice removal. It’s easy to clean, use, control and transport. For best results, keep tabletop ice maker machine upright for at least 24 hours before first using it.
- Countertop, 40Lbs/24H Auto Self-Cleaning, 24 pcs Ice Cube in 13 Mins, Portable Compact Ice Cube Maker, with Ice Scoop & Basket, Perfect for Home/Kitchen/Office/Bar (Silver)
Product Overview:
The EUHOMY Ice Maker Machine Countertop is a compact and portable ice cube maker that can produce up to 40lbs of ice per day. It is perfect for use in homes, kitchens, offices, and bars. The machine has a silver finish and comes with an ice scoop and basket.
One of the standout features of this ice maker is its ability to produce quick, chewable, and crunchable nugget ice. Unlike traditional hard cubes, this ice is perfect for use in cocktails, sodas, and other beverages. The machine also has an easy-open water reservoir that allows you to simply pour water to fill it, and the reservoir is also easy to clean by yourself.
Another great feature of this ice maker is its professional pure copper nickel-plated ice tray that has anti-corrosion and anti-rust functions. This ensures that your ice cubes will be safe and hygienic to consume.
- Quick ice production
- Produces chewable and crunchable nugget ice
- Easy-open water reservoir
- Professional pure copper nickel-plated ice tray with anti-corrosion and anti-rust functions
- Water circulation feature reduces water waste
- The ice basket and scoop may not be large enough for some users
- The water reservoir could be difficult to clean for some
- The machine may not be suitable for large events or gatherings.
Buy on Amazon
Also Read: Best Stand Mixers Under $200
7. hOmeLabs Residential Ice Maker Machine
- Intense Ice Making Power: We’ve made our commercial ice maker to always be there when you need it. It is capable of producing 99 lbs of ice in 24 hours and quickly makes 45 pieces of clear ice in one cycle within 11-20 mins. With 29 lbs of storage capacity, it holds enough ice to be enjoyed by all
- Freestanding Design with Essential Accessories: Its freestanding design lets you install the ice maker anywhere inside your home, pantry or restaurant. Just make sure to always have a water outlet near your unit. This 17.6 x 15.7 x 31.4 clear ice cube maker has a sleek, rust-resistant stainless steel interior and comes with a full set of accessories including an ice scoop, water supply hose, water supply connector and a water draining hose
- Commercial or Large Household Use: Ideal for restaurants, hotels or big households that often require a constant, large quantity of ice. The 1.2L water tank hooks directly to a water supply, so you don’t have to worry about filling it up like conventional countertop ice makers. Only connect the appliance to a potable water supply
- Easy-to-Use Controls: Intuitive control panel has LCD indicator for displaying water and ice making functions. The ice making time and thickness of the ice cubes can be adjusted by pressing the (+) or (-) buttons. Also equipped with an automatic cleaning function. Before first use, clean the ice machine and keep it in an upright position for 24 hours
- Freestanding Commercial Ice Maker Machine - Makes 99 Pounds Ice in 24 hrs with 29 Pounds Storage Capacity - Ideal for Restaurants, Bars, Homes and Offices - Includes Scoop and Connection Hose
Product Overview:
The hOmeLabs Freestanding Commercial Ice Maker Machine is a powerful and efficient ice making machine designed for commercial and large household use. It is capable of producing 99 pounds of ice in 24 hours, and quickly makes 45 pieces of clear ice in one cycle within 11-20 minutes. This machine also features a 29 pound storage capacity, which holds enough ice to be enjoyed by all.
The freestanding design of this ice maker allows for easy installation anywhere inside your home, pantry or restaurant. It has a sleek, rust-resistant stainless steel interior and comes with a full set of accessories including an ice scoop, water supply hose, water supply connector and a water draining hose, making it easy to use and maintain.
- Capable of producing 99 lbs of ice in 24 hours.
- 29 lbs storage capacity.
- Freestanding design allows for easy installation.
- Sleek, rust-resistant stainless steel interior.
- Automatic cleaning function.
- Requires a water outlet nearby.
- Water tank hooks directly to a water supply.
- Needs to be cleaned before first use and needs to be kept upright for 24 hours.
Buy on Amazon
8. Magic Chef Residential Ice Maker Machine
- Makes ice in as little as 7 minutes
- Makes 9 ice cubes per 1 cycle
- Choice of 2 ice cube sizes
- Makes up to 27 lbs. of ice 24 hours
- Exterior drain and See-thru window
- Included Components: Ice Maker, Manual, Ice Scoop
- MCIM22ST 27 lb Ice Maker Stainless Steel
- The included ice scoop and the removable storage bin make it easy to either fill up your pitcher or your ice chest.
- Its also available in five different finishes (black, red, white, silver, stainless steel, and stainless) to better match any decor.
Product Overview:
The Magic Chef MCIM22ST portable countertop ice maker is a convenient and efficient way to ensure that you never run out of ice again. With the ability to make up to 27 pounds of ice per day, this compact and lightweight machine is perfect for entertaining guests or for use in your home kitchen.
One of the standout features of this ice maker is its speed. It can produce ice in as little as 7 minutes, making it ideal for those times when you need ice quickly. Additionally, it offers a choice of two ice cube sizes, allowing you to customize the size of your ice to suit your needs.
- Makes ice quickly (in as little as 7 minutes)
- Offers a choice of 2 ice cube sizes
- Makes up to 27 lbs. of ice in 24 hours
- Has exterior drain and see-thru window
- Comes with a manual and ice scoop.
- Storage bin capacity is only 1.5 lb.
- No information about energy efficiency
- The control panel is digital, some people might not be comfortable with it.
Buy on Amazon
9. Frigidaire Best Residential Ice Maker Machine
- Portable Stainless Steel Ice Maker
- Over-sized Ice bucket holds 2.2 lbs of ice
- Choice of 3 Ice Cube Sizes (small, medium and large)
- Enjoy a batch of ice in as little as 6 minutes
- Produces 26 lbs of ice per day. No drain required, making it ideal in any room or at the office
- NOTE: Refer the User Manual before use which is highly essential.
- EFIC103-AMZ-SC Counter Top Maker with Over-Sized Ice Bucket,
- Stainless Steel, Self Cleaning Function, Heavy Duty, Stainless
Product Overview:
The Frigidaire EFIC103-AMZ-SC Counter Top Maker is a heavy-duty, stainless steel ice maker that comes with an oversized ice bucket. It has a large capacity, with a reservoir located beneath the ice basket that can produce up to 26 Lbs of clear ice cubes per day. The ice maker is also efficient and easy to use, taking less than 6 minutes to make bullet-shaped ice and storing up to 2.2 lbs in the basket. The user-friendly and straightforward electronic controls make it simple to operate.
One of the great features of this ice maker is its versatility, as you have the choice to make ice cubes in two different sizes. Its modern design, with a stainless steel exterior and large transparent window, allows you to see your ice being made. The user-friendly digital control panel also lets you know when the bin is full and when the water is empty, and when the ice is ready, it falls into the provided ice bucket and is ready to be served.
Another great feature of this ice maker is its automatic self-cleaning program. Simply plug the unit in, then press the "ON/OFF" button for more than 5 seconds to enter the self-clean program. The program takes about 30 minutes to complete.
- Large capacity, producing up to 26 Lbs of ice per day.
- Efficient and easy to use, taking less than 6 minutes to make ice.
- Choice to make ice cubes in two different sizes.
- Modern design with a stainless steel exterior and large transparent window.
- Automatic self-cleaning program.
- The self-cleaning program takes 30 minutes to complete.
- It requires manual cleaning after self-cleaning program
- The unit is not portable and needs a permanent installation place.
Buy on Amazon
Also Read: Best Cold Press Juicer
How To Pick The Best Residential Ice Maker | Ultimate Buyer's Guide 2023
Capacity
Capacity is quite simple. Ice machines have the ability to constantly hold a certain amount of ice and produce a certain amount of ice per day.
Typically, the amount of ice that can be produced per day is approximate twice the amount of ice that can be stored at any one time. Thus, for example, an ice machine that produces 25 pounds of ice per day will generally be able to store 12 pounds of ice at a time.
Twenty-five pounds is a good baseline and the average I would expect, so most ice machines fall into this range.
Size
Size is the external dimensions of the ice machine. It is usually intended to be placed under a counter or on a bar or island, so it should be fairly short. The size, width, and length will vary from cabinet to cabinet, but the average counter in a typical home is about 28 inches high and 14 to 15 inches wide, and the length can really be a fluke. Be sure to measure your workspace before purchasing.
Price
Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3,000, not including installation costs. A countertop ice machine is a substantial investment, and purchasing the best countertop ice machine can be costly. Carefully calculate how much you can spend on the machine itself and any necessary renovations before deciding if the purchase is worth it.
Speed
How fast does the ice need to be? The importance of speed depends on whether you want to make a large amount of ice in advance or if you want a constant flow rate. Some ice machines will provide the first supply of ice quickly enough to get the party started, but if you do not have enough ice storage space, it is wise to purchase an ice machine that can handle hourly demand.
Ice Production
Whether you have a large thirsty family or occasionally make your own drinks, you will want to choose an ice maker that meets your needs. Aside from the speed of ice making, the size of the ice machine will also affect the amount of ice it produces. A compact ice maker requires less ice to be emptied more frequently than a large ice maker because it holds less ice at one time.
Types and Sizes of Ice
Portable ice makers come in a variety of ice shapes, including balls, nuggets, crescents, and cubes, so choose the one that best suits your needs. Do you like tropical or blended drinks? You will need a machine that can produce nugget-shaped ice. If you like to stir your drinks, a machine that produces slow-melting ice is ideal. Also, not all ice machines have different sizes of ice cubes, but some can dispense up to three different sizes of ice cubes.
Types of Ice Machines
Where do you most often need ice? Outside on the patio, in the kitchen, in a restaurant? There are built-in ice makers that not only have high storage capacity, but also blend in with your decor or can be hidden under the counter. Countertop models are smaller, but are useful when extra or regular ice is needed.
Additional Features
Some ice makers have automatic timers that allow you to choose the size and thickness of ice as well as set the time it takes for the ice to be ready. Some models also have a self-cleaning feature if cleaning the ice maker on a regular basis is a hassle. If you only drink one glass, consider a machine that has both a water dispenser and an ice maker.
Also Read: Best Commercial Stand Mixer
Best Residential Ice Maker | Video Explanation
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a countertop ice maker work?
Although it varies from model to model, a typical ice maker first feeds water into a mold to make ice. The ice maker monitors the freezing progress, and when the ice in the mold has frozen, the mold is heated slightly to break up the ice easily and eject it into a storage bin. This process is repeated as long as there is water or space for ice.
Does the portable ice maker require plumbing for water?
Because they are designed for easy mobility, most portable ice machines have water tanks and do not require dedicated water piping. However, some commercial units that individuals can choose from require water piping and possibly drainage piping as well.
What is nugget ice?
The nugget ice cream looks like crushed ice, but it is quite different. Crushed ice starts as large cubes and is broken into smaller pieces. Nugget ice is made by compressing flakes of ice into a nugget shape. When you bite into a piece of crushed ice, it is hard and firm. The nugget ice breaks.
What is ball ice?
Ball ice is cylindrical in shape and has a rounded tip, making it look like a large ball. The cylinder is often hollow, which increases the surface area and cools the drink faster. Bullet ice is often cloudy white, making it unattractive for clear drinks.
Can countertop ice machines keep ice frozen?
Many countertop ice machines do not have a freezer compartment for storing ice. Even with insulation in the tray, the ice will eventually melt. The water then flows back into the tank and refreezes. Larger, more expensive ice machines may have a freezer to keep the ice frozen.
Do tabletop ice machines use a lot of electricity?
Depending on the model, ice makers generally do not consume much electricity. Power consumption varies depending on the operation of the ice maker (freezing, pumping, mold heating) and can vary considerably from 50 to 160 watts, but averages 100 watts per hour.
How do I clean the ice machine?
Start by unplugging the ice machine. Turn the unit upside down or open the drain plug (if present) to drain all liquid from the tank. Remove the ice maker and wipe it clean with a soft sponge soaked in a small amount of vinegar and warm water. Then wipe the inside with the same sponge and vinegar/water solution (the outside can simply be wiped with a damp cloth). Finish by wiping the entire area with a soft, dry cloth. Wait about an hour for the ice machine to dry completely before replacing the ice pan and plugging it in. If your ice machine has a wash cycle option, activate it now. If your ice machine does not have this option, let it make ice for a few cycles and then discard the ice or feed it to the plants.
How does the ice machine work?
Portable ice machines work differently than commercial machines. A typical consumer machine requires the water tank to be filled to the full line. The water is then pumped from the tank through a water filter to the ice-making pan. A compressor and fan freeze the water into ice, or pins are lowered into the water to make it very cold. The pins are then heated by the hot refrigerant and heat exchanger, and the ice slides down and into the ice basket. An ice machine can take several minutes to make ice, from 5 to 20 minutes per cycle.
How do I repair an ice machine?
If your ice maker is not making ice, troubleshoot before calling in a professional. First, check to see if the power cord is damaged or unplugged, then check to see if the water tank is empty. If the tank is shown as empty even though water has been added, look for a sensor and clean it to avoid a false indication. Another possibility is a clogged water line. This is usually caused by mineral deposits from hard water. Remove the water filter, clean it well, and check for clogged pipes or channels.
Conclusion
Undercounter ice makers are very practical tools for making large quantities of ice in a short time. Compared to portable ice makers, these machines have more powerful motors, larger capacities, and more solid construction. They are more efficient, but take up more space and are noisier. They are expensive but well worth it. If you want to buy a good one, our review of the Best Residential Ice Maker contains almost everything you need to make the most informed purchase.

Hi, I’m Jennifer Lawrence, Went to Calhoun High School (Georgia) my goal is to make the kitchen fun by providing a mathematical and logical component to our approach to cooking good food. I look not only at delicious recipes but also at kitchen tools and gadgets to give you the tips and tricks we hope you will find useful. Read More Here
Leave a Reply