Best Undercounter Ice Maker Reviews in 2020

Undercounter ice machines are usually used in restaurants and pubs where you have to stock a large quantity of ice to serve the customers every day. It gives an easy way to invest one time rather than buying an ice again and again to give chilled beverages to the customers. People, who love to throw parties for their friends and family, also prefer such ice makers to easily manage the ice needs.

These ice makers provide you a facility to create fresh and clean ice cubes as much as you need. It is also considered as one of the possible comforts of the modern kitchen, whether for household or business use. When we talk about the best or the right machine, EdgeStar IB120SS is perfectly capable of satisfying ice demands in all situations. Here, you will get to know about some best undercounter ice makers from different brands.

Best Undercounter Ice Maker Comparison

No.1 EdgeStar IB120SS Built in Ice Maker, 12 lbs

EdgeStar IB120SS ice maker is a freestanding appliance with the compact and elegant design. It has the capacity to produce up to 12 pounds of ice per day. It has a stainless steel finish that can match with any kitchen theme.

The features which make it a preferable choice for people with limit budget includes the ability to hold up to 6 pounds of ice, convenient reversible door for left or right-hand swing, ice scoop, on/off power switch, and auto shut off when machine is not in use or no more ice production is needed. Thus, saves energy. As per the manufacturer, it is believed that ice never melts inside the machine, so it does not have a drain line.

Being highly efficient and affordable at around $300, it gives best results to meet the daily ice demands of a business or a home. So, next time when you plan to have a get-together party at your home, EdgeStar IB120SS will help you to spend an enjoyable moment with guests without going out of ice stock.

No.2 Whynter UIM-502SS Built-In/Freestanding 50 lb Ice Maker

If you want something bigger to create ice for your business, Whynter UIM-502SS has the capability to do so by producing 50 pounds of ice in just 24 hours. It means you can serve your customers continually without delaying their orders. Also, it enables you to store up to 25 pounds of ice. When its storage capacity is full, the machine will automatically shut off more ice production.

It has a sleek design with a stainless steel door and black cabinet, thus makes it an ideal choice to complement any décor. This freestanding machine with front venting has a water hose and drain line. It uses a highly efficient compressor, thus gives a large quantity of quality clear ice cubes in less time.

It has reversible door swing, on/off button and requires manual defrost. This ice maker is very easy to use but may require a professional plumber for installation. It can fulfill your need of large quantity of ice. If you have a budget of more than $1,000, you can think of it.

No.3 Sunpentown IM-150US Stainless Steel Undercounter Ice Maker with Freezer

As compared to above-mentioned models, Sunpentown IM-150US has smaller size and can be placed under the counter of any kitchen size. If you are looking for an ice maker with a range of features, elegant design, reasonably priced to meet your daily ice needs at your home, this machine can become your perfect home appliance in less than $300.

It has a black cabinet and stainless steel reversible door that makes your kitchen more attractive. Like others, it too has front ventilation, thus makes it suitable for freestanding or built-in installation. When ice bin gets full, it automatically shut off. Due to this feature, it consumes less energy and reduces your utility bill.

It does not have a drain, but still, it is recommended to install a water line properly. It may be little difficult to install but not complicated, so require a professional plumber for installation. It is impressive ice maker which is clearly worth your money.

No.4 Whynter UIM-155 Stainless Steel Built-In Ice Maker

The small and attractive design of Whynter UIM-155 ice machine makes it an excellent addition to any modern kitchen, home bar or pub. The stainless steel door keeps the indoor temperature cold. It has front ventilation with on/off switch to make it easy to access. It has 6 pounds of storage capacity and can produce 12 pounds of ice in a day.

It has auto shut off feature, which means it will automatically turn off when ice bin gets full. You do not need to check it manually. It gives ultimate results for the ice needs which your full-size refrigerator cannot be fulfilled. No drain is required and it comes with 9 foot 1/4 inch water line connection.

Its sleek body allows you to place it under the counter of your kitchen, thus does not occupy much space or disturb other stuff. Now you can enjoy chilled beverages with your family or friends without going out to buy an ice when out of stock in your fridge.

No.5 EdgeStar IB450SS 45 Lb. 15 Inch Wide Undercounter Clear Ice Maker

The sleek design, ease of use and suitability for any space makes EdgeStar IB450SS in great demand. It is highly capable of producing up to 45 pounds of ice per day and has a storage capacity of up to 25 pounds. It produces clear and fresh tasting ice cubes in an amount which is enough to meet the daily ice needs of restaurants, bars, and for home.

You can even install a water filter in order to get filtered ice. It also helps in improving the performance and life of the machine. It has a stainless steel door which makes this ice maker more durable. It is designed to fit with any kitchen or bar décor. You can even manage the ice maker functions using computerized controls. The other features are adjustable leveling legs and removable ice bin.

The drain is required. If your storage space does not have a drain, you have to condensate pump to drain melted water directly. The installation by a professional plumber is recommended by the manufacturer.

What to consider when buying an undercounter ice maker?

When finding the undercounter ice machine for your home/business, you need to make sure to end up with the one that best meets your all needs. Just consider these factors before buying a machine.

Ice Types

Along with production capacity, you should also check for the type of ice cubes you need. The ice makers can produce different types of ice cubes in varied shapes and sizes. Some melt slowly, some are easy to chew, while some are used for specific beverages. All have their own exclusive function and purpose. For what purpose you are going to purchase an ice maker? Look for the one that can produce your required type of ice cubes.

If you do not have any particular ice shape need, you can go for any machine.

Ice Production Capacity

You must ask yourself about what ice capacity you are looking for? If you are buying undercounter ice maker for home use, you must focus on family size, how much ice you usually need for a party at home, daily needs of ice etc. Check whether your chosen machine has the ability to accommodate these needs or not.

If looking for business purpose, make sure to determine the daily needs of customers and what if ice demand gets increase at the certain time. You need to focus on a machine capable enough to fulfill the existing and expecting condition.

Placement

You must be clear in your mind the place where you will install the machine. It will help you to look for the models that can fit easily in that space. If you will keep your machine outside, be sure to choose a model designed for outdoor use. Such models are more durable and can easily handle the outdoor weather.

Whether you are going to place an undercounter ice machine indoor or outdoor, make sure to consider the size of the machine as well as the available space under your kitchen counter.

Drain Facility

Some of the models donot have a drain line because they act like a freezer, while some with drain line are not able to keep ice frozen all the time. When ice melts, it requires draining. This water flows out of the drain pipe without any difficulty. If drain required, you have to choose from gravity drains and drain pumps options.

Many such models require plumbing depending on the amount of water comes out of the machine as well as the location where you will keep your undercounter ice maker.

Affordability

As some machines are too expensive while some are highly affordable, you need to check for your affordable price range. But at the same time, you must keep in mind your needs as well. If you are getting everything you require in one machine which is available at little more price than your budget, you have to think about your budget once more. Also, check what additional features it is offering.

It is better to shortlist the models offering excellent features and functions at your price. Pick the one that fits for you in all aspects.

Conclusion

Whether ite is hot outside, or you want to enjoy cold beverages with your friends or family, or your customers have ordered some cold drinks, undercounter ice maker will benefit in all ways. Now, it gives you an opportunity to ditch that last slot of ice and get more ice when you need it.

Little research and attention would help you in finding the right machine for you. EdgeStar IB120SS is highly powerful in giving value for your money in terms of stylish design, excellent features, easy installation, and competitive price. When you want larger ice production and storage capacity, EdgeStar IB450SS would be best for commercial purpose. This machine is very expensive than EdgeStar model.

Hopefully, this buying guide has provided you the valuable information so that you can find a machine with highly satisfying results and would be with you for years to come.