Best Undercounter Ice Makers

Best Undercounter Ice Makers Reviews, Tips & Buying Guides

BuyingGuides – How To Choose The Best Undercounter Ice Makers

With the summer season closing in, you must be thinking of buying an ice maker for your home. Why wait for deliveries when you can buy one today? Well, there are several factors that you need to consider before buying an undercounter ice maker. Some undercounter ice makers will not be compatible with your existing water line or even with your kitchen’s design. These are a few things that might help you make a good choice.

Types Of Countertop Ice Maker Machines

Ice maker machines are available in two main types. The first type is the portable ice maker, which can be moved around easily from one place to another. They are the perfect choice if you want to have ice with your drink outdoors or even at a picnic. However, since these are small in size, they produce less ice per day.

The other type is the undercounter ice maker machine. It is commonly referred to as an “undercounter” refrigerator-freezer because it is meant for indoor use only and cannot be moved around easily as a traditional refrigerator-freezer would do. It occupies an area of about 33 inches by 22 inches while some occupy smaller spaces too.

Size Of The Machine

Nowadays, ice maker machines are available in various sizes, ranging from 9 to 48 inches. This is because they come with features that allow them to produce small or large pieces of ice for different purposes. If you do not need too much ice for beverages and food preservation, then it would be wise to buy a smaller machine. However, if you want larger quantities of ice for professional use or home parties, then you should go for the bigger models. There are even mini undercounter ice maker machines that can produce up to 20 pounds of solid ice within 24 hours as well as portable ones that you can carry around anywhere. Consider these things before making your decision on which type of machine best fits your needs.

Storage Capacity

You should also consider the storage capacity of the machine you are planning to buy. The size of your household will help determine this factor. If you have plenty of family members at home who drink a lot, then it would be wise to go for an undercounter ice maker machine that can hold up to 50 pounds of ice in its bin at any given time. However, if you need just enough for two or three people, then even smaller machines would suffice.

Production Capacity

The production capacity of an ice maker machine is measured in pounds per day. This means that even if you get a smaller undercounter ice maker machine, it will still be able to produce more than what you need. However, keep in mind that some models cannot provide up to the claimed amount because the ambient temperature must not exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit for better results.

Speed Of Ice Production

It is also vital to consider the speed at which an undercounter ice maker machine will produce ice. Although most models can provide seven to nine pounds of ice per day, there are some that can offer more than what they claim. It really depends on the storage capacity and the size of pieces produced. If you live in a remote area with poor water pressure, then choose a machine with high production speeds so as not to waste too much time waiting for it to work.

Placement

Ideally, you should install your undercounter ice maker machine near a sink so you can easily reach it to get ice. However, if this is not possible due to the design of your kitchen or lack of available space, then you might consider buying a water line kit that will allow you to connect the device to a separate faucet. If this option still does not work for you, then choose an ice maker with a drain tube located at the rear of the unit. This way, all you have to do is attach a hose and let it drain into the sink below. Alternatively, use an undercounter refrigerator-freezer with a built-in icemaker instead which requires no installation because its storage bin also functions as its water reservoir.

Installation

If you are planning to buy a small undercounter ice maker, then the process should be relatively easy since all you have to do is slide it into place and plug it in. However, larger machines might require some plumbing work if they will be connected to water lines or drain hose kits. It also helps to keep your machine away from wall heaters, ovens, and other appliances that produce heat because this can cause uneven ice production. An undercounter ice maker machine with an LED display makes it easier for you to know which parts of the device need cleaning at any given time. This way, there is no room for error as well as a misuse on your part.

Ice Quality

Another important thing to consider in an undercounter ice maker machine is the quality of its product. As much as possible, go for models that can provide you with crystal-like pieces of ice instead of dull cubes which are more likely to melt when placed inside your drinks.

Ice Shape

Generally, flat cubes are preferred over nuggets because they melt slower. Focus on the ice shape when shopping for an undercounter ice maker machine to produce larger pieces of ice slowly instead of small ones which can become water within minutes.

Cooling System

Lastly, look at the ice maker’s cooling system to know if it is able to maintain ice temperature consistently. If you have no idea about this factor, then ask a salesperson for help or check websites that offer ice machine reviews. These will allow you to learn more about the inner workings of various cooling systems used in undercounter ice maker machines as well as what people think of them. Whatever you do, always go for an ice maker with an “Energy Saver” setting which can turn off its compressor when there is already plenty of ice available inside its bin. This prevents unnecessary wear and tear on your part while saving valuable energy at the same time.

Drainage Options

It is also a good idea to look for an undercounter ice maker machine that can produce tiny pellets instead of cubes to reduce the risk of accidents involving broken pieces. In addition, it helps if your ice-making appliance has a drain hose or water line kit attached at the rear to allow you to connect it directly to your sink. This way, there is no need for you to worry about spilling ice while carrying it from one place to another because it will melt quickly into clean water that can be easily poured down the drain.

Water Supply Line

If you are thinking of buying an undercounter ice maker machine, then consider purchasing a unit with an attached water supply line instead. This type of ice maker has a dedicated feeder located at the rear which you can easily attach to your faucet. Since water is readily available from this source, you do not have to worry about running out during parties or special occasions when there will be a lot of guests around.

Among the essential things that you need to remember when shopping for an undercounter ice maker machine is that most models come with installation kits that contain all the necessary components for connecting them to water lines and drains. If you are not comfortable with installing these devices yourself, then choose one with already-installed accessories so they can be hooked up and used right out of the box.

Demand Control

An undercounter ice maker machine with demand control is able to detect your water usage patterns so it can adjust itself accordingly. This way, you save money on electricity while receiving the maximum amount of ice during peak times when more people are around.

Energy Efficiency

Always go for undercounter ice maker machines with “Energy Star” certifications because these appliances can automatically shut off their compressors when there is no more water or ice to be gathered. This prevents unnecessary wear and tear on your part while saving valuable electricity at the same time.

Design

Undercounter ice maker machines are available in countertop and freestanding models. If you have enough space to spare, installing a freestanding appliance is an excellent choice because it can be easily relocated somewhere else whenever needed. Countertop ice makers are smaller compared to the larger, more expensive free standing types so they occupy less space on your kitchen countertop. On the downside, these appliances are not suitable for continuous use because of their limited storage capacity.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Undercounter ice maker machines need to be maintained and cleaned regularly so they deliver excellent performance. Among the best ways to maintain your appliance is by giving it a thorough washing once every two weeks using warm water and mild detergent. After you have rinsed off all grime and debris, make sure that you dry the machine completely with a towel before storing it in its original box or cabinet for more protection.

Cost and Warranties

Undercounter ice maker machines are available at different price rates depending on the features and design of each unit. Freestanding models tend to be more expensive than countertop ones because they come with larger reservoirs and can make more ice. On the other hand, it is easier to install these appliances without having to take extra measurements for their installation location. However, if you choose this type of machine, then expect regular maintenance work such as cleaning every two weeks to one month since they produce a lot of grime and dust over time which may affect performance and lifespan.

The warranty period varies from 1 year up to 10 years depending on the brand and model that you purchase. If there is any problem or damage due to defective parts within this time frame, then you should contact the manufacturer and request a replacement or repair. After this period passes, your ice machine will no longer be covered by warranty so you should expect higher service and maintenance fees at that point.

Choosing an undercounter ice maker machine will give you the convenience of having your own ice reserves during parties and special gatherings. These appliances are easy to maintain and clean so they can be used frequently without issues or complications. By following this guide, you will be able to choose the right model for your specific needs and preferences.

 

FAQs

What Is An Undercounter Ice Maker?

An undercounter ice maker is a type of ice maker that is designed to be installed underneath the counter in your kitchen. They are usually built-in units, meaning they come with their own storage bin for the loose cubes that fall off during production. These cubes collect at the bottom of the bin and are then pushed up to your waiting glass through a small shoot.

Undercounter ice makers offer flexible installation options, giving you much more freedom than other ice maker types. They’re less intrusive since they sit under the countertop, freeing up valuable space in your kitchen.

How Do Countertop Ice Makers Work?

Countertop ice makers are a good choice for people who want the convenience of having ice on demand without having a full-size ice maker in their kitchen. They’re also a good option for people who live in warmer climates where full-size units might be at risk of breaking down from high temperatures, or those who have particularly small kitchens or storage areas.

The process is simple. You fill up an internal container with water and wait as the machine uses its built-in compressor to turn it into ice cubes. A dispenser shoots out these cubes so you can easily grab them with your hands or a utensil. When the bin is full, you simply empty it into your freezer and repeat the process.

Benefits Of Undercounter Ice Maker

The benefit of having an undercounter ice maker is that it provides you with ice when you need it. Its built-in convenience makes it ideal for people who don’t want to deal with the hassle of filling up a bin every couple of days, or even worse, carrying heavy bags of ice home. These machines can be found in some homes and offices, while others are more common in bars, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and other public places where ice is needed regularly throughout the day.

Why Are Undercounter Ice Makers So Expensive?

Just like any other product, when it comes to icemakers there are various factors that can put a price on it. The size, capacity, where the maker is manufactured, type of motor among other things determine its cost. Since these devices are kitchen appliances they’re rather expensive because of increased demand for them in commercial places where many people use them at once. Therefore you should better start saving money to buy one if that’s what you need. You will never regret having an ice-making unit that doesn’t keep your drinks watered down with melted ice cubes!

Is A Countertop Ice Maker Worth It?

The answer depends on what you’re looking for. Countertop ice machines provide a quick and easy method to get your beverages chilled. They can come in handy when you have unexpected guests stopping by or during summer season when you need to keep plenty of ice cubes stored in the freezer. You simply pour water into the top chamber, press a button and wait for it to fill up with cubes. However there are a few things you should consider before buying one: they’re less powerful than full-size ice makers because their motors have smaller capacities, which means that they don’t produce much ice at once unless you buy a commercial grade model that costs thousands of dollars, making it way more expensive than other choices. The machine itself also takes up space in the kitchen and the water supply to it must be close, so keep in mind how much counter you have before buying a unit.

Which Countertop Ice Maker Is Right For Me?

Just like with any other product you can’t automatically assume that all countertop ice machines are the same, so it’s important to know what you’re buying before making a purchase. There are portable and built-in models that range in price from $100 to thousands of dollars depending on the model, capacity, size, and additional features available. For example, commercial grade undercounter ice makers tends to be more expensive than domestic ones due to their larger capacity and better performance which makes them ideal for large establishments where lots of drinks need to be chilled quickly. They also come in various styles depending on where they’ll be used since home units tend to be smaller than those made for commercial use.

If you want your drinks chilled fast but don’t have much at home, you can decide to buy a personal portable unit that is hand-held. It’s easy to use and convenient since it doesn’t take up much counter space. However keep in mind that these smaller units are less powerful than full-size undercounter models, meaning that they won’t produce enough ice at once unless you select a high-end commercial grade one which can cost thousands of dollars or more.

If you’re looking for something practical yet elegant the built-in model might be what you need! They’re less expensive than countertop ice makers due to their design since they don’t have an external motor or control panel. Not only do they come in various colors so they blend in with your kitchen decor but also some models offer extra features such as a water filtration system meant to create better tasting ice which you might appreciate if you have a bit of a sweet tooth.

Lastly, there are ice makers that offer the best of both worlds i.e. built-in and portable units! These undercounter ice makers can be freestanding or built-in, meaning you’ll get all the benefits of countertop models without sacrificing too much space in your kitchen since they’re freestanding and don’t need any additional installation other than having a bin where the melted ice will collect at the bottom. You can also move them around your home depending on where you need extra chilling power at that moment thanks to their mobility. There are various commercial grade ones with different capacities, but they’re all powerful and produce a good amount of ice cubes at once.

How To Clean Countertop Ice Maker

One of the most annoying things with any appliance is when it starts making noise for no apparent reason. Most ices makers will make some sounds if they start working, but there are models that tend to be louder than others depending on their design and structure. If you notice that your ice machine is constantly making noise even when it’s not producing any ice, then it might be time to give it a good scrubbing! It’s simpler than you may think and only takes 5 minutes once every 2 weeks or so. All you’ll need is water, baking soda, vinegar, and an old toothbrush – here’s what you do:

• Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with half a cup of water in a bowl until it forms a thick paste.
• Add half a cup of vinegar and mix it into the paste until they’re well combined.
• Use your old toothbrush to clean the surface that’s making noise then use some water to rinse followed by wiping off all traces so they don’t interfere with the motor and other parts.
• Dry it up with a towel and wait for 20 minutes before plugging it back in so it dries faster, and voila! You now know how to keep your countertop ice maker running smoothly.

Do I Need A Water Filter For My New Under-Counter Ice Machine?

If you’re about to buy a new ice machine for your establishment, then this is the perfect place to start! Not only are homemade ice cubes terrible tasting since they don’t go through any purification process, but they can also damage your ice maker since they might contain impurities that affect its performance.

This means you won’t have to throw away all of the bad-tasting water anymore and instead install an undercounter filter so the unit will produce clean and tastier ice on demand. This way not only your employees or customers will enjoy their drinks more because of how fresh it tastes, but you’ll save money on buying bags of pre-made cubes on a regular basis. Many models even come with an automatic shut off feature which saves you from having to worry about water spilling everywhere if the reservoir is full and it shuts off automatically.

Does A Countertop Ice Maker Need To Have A Water Line?

In short, no. All you need to run an undercounter ice maker is to plug it into a standard outlet and fill the reservoir with water, but if your home or establishment has hard water then you might want to consider investing in a small water line kit that connects directly to your sink’s faucet so that way the machine only needs regular municipal tap water instead of filtered or bottled.

Why You Need A Reliable Under-Counter Ice-Making Machine?

Many people take ice cubes for granted and don’t consider them much since they’re usually used to cool drinks or make mixed cocktails, but this isn’t your average ice cube. It’s a mini-workspace that produces an endless amount of ice in just moments with the press of a button, and you can use it for extra chilling at home or work without consuming tons of electricity like an air conditioner would. Plus they’re compact enough to fit even in small spaces so you’ll have plenty of options when placing one in your home or business no matter how limited it is!

You can also control the bin so that way once it fills up it will stop creating more cubes automatically to keep everything fresh and ready whenever you need it. If you have a small establishment where you don’t have much space to spare, perhaps an undercounter ice maker is the way to go for you.

There’s also an option if you want your cubes centered or they have to be perfectly round. You can select from different sizes and even set how long each cycle takes so that way they’re ready in just a few moments when it counts! The best part about these machines is that they only consume a few hundred watts of energy per day, unlike air conditioners which can consume up to 2200 watts at max capacity. These units are very versatile and easy to maintain with regular cleaning procedures once every 2 weeks, which means no more cleaning out buckets of iced water ever again! Just make sure your kitchen staff is aware of the proper care and maintenance that needs to be done before using it, just like any other appliance!

Does Undercounter Ice Maker Need A Drain?

No, and this is a common misconception that many people have about these compact machines. They don’t require a drain since they use very little water compared to full-sized ice makers, but if it does happen to leak then you can use the included drain pan under your unit to catch any leaks instead of having them run down your floor.

If you want it dispensed inside the bin, make sure there’s enough clearance space for it, or else it will drip all over your counters and floors! This will save you time from having to clean up after a messy spill that might occur with other types of ice machines.

What Is The Energy Draw Of An Igloo Countertop Icemaker?

The best units usually use between 500 and 800 watts of power to run, but this will vary depending on the model you’re looking at. The Energy Star compliant models tend to consume about 10% less electricity than their non-compliant counterparts since they produce fewer ice cubes each cycle and require a smaller heating element to keep the water warm.

Which Is The Quietest Undercounter Ice Maker?

This is a very subjective question to answer since noise can be measured in decibels and every person will have different levels of tolerance towards them, but you’ll find that many units tend to run about the same level of noise as other kitchen appliances such as blenders and coffee makers.

However, there are some units that might sound like they’re grinding or rumbling when they first startup because it takes a few moments for the cubes to drop into the ice storage bin before it stops making any sounds whatsoever. The best way to know if it’s too loud for your space is by testing one out at home or work and seeing how much sound it produces during operation!

What Is A Good Location For My Undercounter Ice Maker?

The most important thing to know is that you should place your machine away from the edge of any countertop so that way it won’t fall off from a small bump from somebody walking by.

Ideally, if you have enough space you can put an undercounter ice maker underneath a kitchen island or on another table like a buffet for people to use during parties and gatherings. This will allow them to easily access the cubes whenever they want instead of having them hidden at the very back of your counters where nobody can reach them! You’ll notice how convenient this machine is compared to other full-sized ones since there will be no need for constant refills like with those old-fashioned ice buckets. But before you go ahead and buy one, make sure the location you intend to place it is against a wall since these machines do have water drainage holes so they can properly drain excess water.

Do You Need To Install A Water Line For Undercounter Ice Maker?

To be honest, you don’t have to install a water line if you want to save some time and money. The only reason why you would need one is if your machine doesn’t have its own internal reservoir that can store enough water for it to run without any pauses in the cycle. If that’s the case then you should go ahead and buy those flexible rubber hoses which will connect to your main supply line so they can keep running as long as there’s water inside of them!

Which Size Ice Machine Do I Need?

The most popular size by far is the larger 10-inch wide model since they can store about 26 pounds of ice cubes at a time. These are usually meant for full-sized bars or catering businesses so they can produce enough ice to keep up with their demand during parties and gatherings.

This is why you don’t want to get an undercounter ice maker machine that’s too small because it won’t be able to sustain itself for a long period of time before it needs another refill! You might need more than one machine if your space is large enough, but this will depend on how much volume you’re making each day when serving customers or clients.

Why Did The Ice Production Capacity Suddenly Drop?

If you’ve recently purchased an undercounter ice maker machine, then the first thing you’ll want to know is why did your production capacity drop when compared to the number of cubes it was producing before?

There are two possible answers to this. The first one is that your water supply line might have developed a leak since these machines do require constant use and can develop leaks after enough time has passed by. Your best bet would be to simply replace the hose with another flexible rubber one that won’t suffer from any leakage problems! The second answer could be that one of your ice storage bins was recently emptied out so it’s still catching up on making more cubes while the other one is filled to its maximum capacity. If this is the case then try to keep an eye on them to see how much they’re producing and if you find that one is constantly full and the other one empty, then try changing their positions so they can both be filled at equal amounts!

Are Under-Counter Icemakers Portable?

You should only get portable ice machines if you plan on moving it from one place to another. If you decide to do this, then make sure you drain all the water from inside of your machine first to avoid any damages while transporting it.

These aren’t meant for people who want a quick fix and can’t be bothered about finding permanent locations for their undercounter ice maker. This is a common problem that a lot of companies have encountered which is why they decided to come up with smaller countertop models instead since these are less expensive and easier to fit into any space! People have been going through this hassle for ages so this is something new companies took advantage of when developing their products. This way they have more customers because everyone will go ahead and purchase these new products without even thinking twice about it.

How Much Electricity Is Required To Make Commercial Ice?

While you might think that all ice making machines will consume the same amount of electricity, this isn’t the case since most models are energy efficient and can reduce your bills by using less power than others.

For example, if you were to buy a brand new ice machine which has an output of 12000 pounds per hour then it would require 260 kilowatts every month! This is more than enough for any bar or restaurant since they’re constantly restocking their machines with cubes so they won’t run out during peak hours.

If you decide to purchase one with lower production capacity then just keep in mind that it will be more affordable when compared to other high frequency models which need loads of power! The final price tag on your machine also depends on the brand and type so if you’re looking to reduce your expenses then try shopping around before making your final decision.

What Should You Be Careful About The Ice Cube Maker?

If you want to get the most out of your machine then there are some things you need to keep in mind. The first thing is that you have to be careful about dental damage when using the ice. Some customers have complained in the past about getting chipped teeth while biting down on the cubes since they were too hard. If this happens, then just remember that it’s always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with commercial machines!

You should also be cautious when working with water during an ice-making session because there are chances where you’ll slip and fall resulting in serious injury. If you want a safer option, then try installing rubber mats below your undercounter ice maker machine so you can step onto it without slipping and falling. This will prevent any accidents and is something that can be done very easily by anyone, and it’s also an inexpensive measure which most people forget about when buying new appliances!

How Long Do Undercounter Ice Machines Last?

You really have no control over how long your ice maker will last since there are several factors that can affect its lifespan. This includes the quality of the materials being used, production capacity, and overall usage!

Take a look at a commercial kitchen for example since these always need to keep their coolers stocked with ice so they won’t run out during peak hours. On average, most models can withstand this kind of workload for about 20 years before needing some repairs or replacements made on them! This isn’t surprising because these machines are under quite a lot of stress when compared to other types of equipment!

To make sure you get the best results possible, make sure it is installed correctly in any location where it’s meant to be. Any changes in location can affect the way it operates since you might be placing it under a lot more stress than before. Do keep in mind that this is only a rough estimate and not every brand will live up to this mark!

How Far Can Ice Maker Be From Sink?

Some models have water inlets near the front of the machine while others are found in the back. For the latter, the distance between your unit and where you’re filling up your buckets can be quite far! There will always be a hose that connects both sides so you should try to keep it close to where you are working at all times.

This is why some manufacturers provide their clients with undercounter ice makers since they allow for plenty of installation options when compared to other types! For example, if you need more room behind your equipment then simply remove one or two sections when setting it up. This also makes it easier to clear out any jammed cubes that might accumulate near the drainage hole since everything is much easier to reach!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a great way to display your drinks and stay cool without having to spend too much money then getting an ice machine is always a good idea! You’ll be able to save plenty of time since there’s no reason why you need to wait hours upon hours before the cubes are ready.