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How To Make Ice Cream In A Blender
When someone craves for a cold dessert, they usually drive to the nearest store that sells them. But did you know that you can make a healthier version at home ...
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17 July 2019
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How To Make Ice Cream In A Blender
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Finding The Best Undercounter Ice Maker In 2023
Likes:Views:95Last Updated: 21 March 2023If you want to make a lot of ice in a short time, undercounter ice maker becomes an extra convenient unit. Mainly, this equipment has roomy storage to keep a lot of ice. The best undercounter ice maker can keep ice for a long time, and you won’t have to waste tons of money on the huge electricity bills.
Undercounter ice machines are relatively bulky, that’s why they are more suitable for large areas, like company break-rooms, bars, canteens, restaurants, cold drink shops, etc. However, there are more compact options, which fit into a kitchen without overwhelming the space - home ice makers. Such equipment offers great productivity and quality, so it can't be cheap. But it’s worth the money - ice makers are irreplaceable if you need a lot of clear and good ice.
We created a list of the best ice makers 2023 and a Buyer’s Guide so that you can choose the right model for you. Here you’ll find the answers to all your questions concerning this equipment. Scroll down!
Contents
- 1 Top 5 Best Undercounter Ice Maker: Comparison Chart
- 2 BUYER’S GUIDE: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE BEST UNDERCOUNTER ICE MAKER
- 3 VERDICT AND OUR RECOMMENDATION FOR 2023
Top 5 Best Undercounter Ice Maker: Comparison Chart
Best Overall: CROWNFUL Commercial Ice Maker Review- FAST AND EFFICIENT: The CROWNFUL commercial ice maker uses branded imported compressors, which can make 45 ice cubes per cycle in 11-20 minutes and 100lbs of ice in 24 hours. It’s a fast ice making, low noise, highly efficient and low energy consumption machine which is the best choice for commercial use.
- MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS: It offers different functions to serve you better: ice cube thickness option, timing, ice full reminder, water shortage reminder, automatic cleaning and other functions are available. Just press the (+) or (-) buttons to choose small, medium and large ice cube, turn-on time and shutdown time setting, control the processing of your ice making.
- AUTOMATIC OPERATION: This commercial ice maker comes with a full set of accessories including water inlet pipe, drain pipe, water quick connector and ice scoop. You only need to connect the faucet and drain port to automatically add and drain water, and make ice with one button, saving you more time.
- LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY: It has 33lbs of ice storage bin capacity; the thick insulating layer can extend the storage time of ice cubes, the attached ice scoop can facilitate the retrieval of ice cubes. You can put it on the hook on the inner wall after use (NOTE: the commercial ice maker is not a freezer, please transfer the ice cubes to your refrigerator for storage).
- WIDE APPLICATIONS: The free-standing design allows you to install the unit in any place you want. The compact shape is best to use for homes, restaurants, bars, hotels, coffee shops, schools, hospitals and more. CROWNFUL offers 12-month warranty and lifetime support. if you have any problem, please feel free to contact us.
Runner Up: EdgeStar Built-in Ice Maker ReviewThis best undercounter ice maker is one of the most multifunctional and user-friendly machines on our list. The set includes a water line. This unit needs minimal installation; its dimensions are 25.25 x 15 x 18.5 and the weight is 54 lbs., so it must fit in almost any kitchen. As it’s a freestanding ice maker, you can place it wherever you want - kitchen, backroom, or even boat. There is a refrigerated compartment for keeping frozen liquid (up to 6 lbs.) - it won’t melt. EdgeStar Built-in Ice Maker makes 12 lbs of ice a day - enjoy as many refreshing drinks as you want!
Our team likes this best ice maker for its versatility, good quality, and reasonable price.
Why We Like It
- Doesn’t need a drain
- Comes with a scoop
- Reversible door
- Affordable
- Appealing design
Convenient Design: Manitowoc UDF0140A NEO 26 Air Cooled Undercounter Dice Cube ReviewThe dimensions of this residential undercounter ice maker are 33 x 30 x 40 inches, the weight is 150 pounds. As you can see it’s much bigger than the previous 2 models and is appreciated by large areas, such as cafes, drink shops, etc. However, you can still use it as an undercounter ice maker for the home. This unit produces 132 lbs, a basket storage capacity is 90 lbs - enough for a big party. It boasts a slanted bin front, and its door glides so easily. Fingerprints-resistant panels make the design even more appealing.
We think you will have no problems giving serious patties with lots of refreshing beverages.
Why We Like It
- Produces ice quickly
- Has pop-out air filters
- Has a display which tells you if there is a problem
- Has a scoop and a holder
Quietest Undercounter Ice Maker
Sale
Luma Comfort Clear Ice Cube Maker Machine | First Cubes In 15 Minutes, 28 lbs. of Ice in 24 Hours | Countertop Portable Design in Stainless Steel - IM200SSThe Luma Comfort Portable Clear Ice Maker is the ultimate entertaining necessity for your home bar or kitchen. With ice available in just a matter of minutes, your guests will always have enough cool drinks in hand.
Pros
- Helpful, smaller, ideal for use in little kitchens
- Powerful compressor
- Hassle-free ice dispenser
- Quiet
Edgestar Ice Maker Reviews
High Quality: Edge Star Built-in Ice Maker 25 Lbs. ReviewWe must admit that this model is quite expensive, but it’s worth every penny you’ll spend on it! This machine is a prime quality under counter ice maker! Its dimensions are 14.9 x 20.06 x 33.31, the weight is 64 lbs. Frozen cubes production is 25 lbs per day; the ice basket is removable and its capacity is 20 lbs. You will like the fact that this equipment is actually an undercounter freezer with an ice maker, so no drain is required. It doesn’t build up internal water lines and crescent-shaped frozen pieces come out so clear! It is the quietest undercounter ice maker.
This device will stock you up with enough frozen pieces for a big family or a party; it is well-built and convenient.
Product Specifications
- Weight: 54 Pounds
- Dimension: 19.9 x 15 x 25.2 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Color: Stainless steel and Black
- Capacity: Daily Capacity: 12 Pounds
- Ice Storage Capacity: 6 Pounds
Pros
- Works quietly
- Reversible door
- Has ice scoop
- Has a sleek design
Cons
- Must be defrosted manually
Compact Device: Smad Under Counter Commercial Portable Ice Maker ReviewThis model is a small undercounter ice maker. Its dimensions are 17 x 15 x 25 and weight is 55 lbs. - perfect for those who are hunting for compact and portable equipment. It produces 12 pounds of ice a day, and you can store up to 6 pounds. This machine is user-friendly, first, it stops automatically when the ice bucket is full - no need to control it. Second, the freezer won’t allow frozen pieces to melt inside; third, the door is reversible for your convenience.
This undercounter ice maker is ideal for those who want a compact but productive device.
Pros
- Appealing design
- Stainless steel door
- Front vent for built-in installation
- Affordable
Cons
- Several complaints that the freezer doesn’t work properly
Undercounter Ice Maker No Drain
U-Line UBI95B00A Undercounter Ice MakerU-line UB 195B00A Under Ice Maker produced using tempered steel. This machine can make ice in a flash, for 10-12 minutes of time. Furthermore, it creates up to 23 LBS of sickle molded ice every day and ice stockpiling 12 LBS.
Pros
- Keeps ice frozen, no drain installation required
- Powerful compressor
- Make ice instantly
- Noise free when operate
BUYER’S GUIDE: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE BEST UNDERCOUNTER ICE MAKER
Now when you know the best undercounter ice machines available on the market, it’s time to learn the answers on related questions, get some useful tips and understand how to choose the right model for your household or office. This section will provide you with all the much-needed information. Read on!
How Do Ice Maker Work?
A machine pumps water from a collection sump and pours it slowly over the tray.
The water gradually freezes in layers and makes clear ice. If an undercounter clear ice maker freezes the water immediately, it’ll make cloudy frozen pieces. After the frozen liquid is clear in layers, the machine turns a solenoid valve on, which changes the direction of the refrigerant. At this time, the bypass tube is being filled with gas; the hot gas gets back into the evaporator and the tray with ice heats up quickly. That’s how a newly made frozen pieces get loosen. The best countertop ice maker works almost the same way too.
Sunpentown Ice Maker Reviews
Sunpentown Undercounter Ice Maker, Front Exhaust Fan ReviewThe dimensions of this under cabinet ice maker are 18 x 15 x 25, and it weighs only 55 lbs. The installation is super easy, no drain is required. These criteria make this unit an excellent home ice machine - it’s compact enough to fit under the kitchen countertop. We like its versatility, which means you can use it as a stand alone ice maker or a built-in ice maker undercounter. The unit produces 12 lbs of frozen liquid per day; the removable basket will help you to keep up to 6 lbs of frozen pieces for your pleasure and convenience.
Customers appreciate this drainless ice maker for easy installation and good capacity.
Product Specifications
- Weight: 55 Pounds
- Dimension: 18 x 15 x 25 inches
- Material: Stainless steel door
- Color: Gray
- Daily Capacity: 12 Pounds
- Ice Storage Capacity: 6 Pounds
Why We Like It
- Has front exhaust fan for better versatility
- You can use the machine indoor or outdoor
- Stainless steel reversible door
What Size Ice Machine Do I Need?
It depends on your needs. For home use and small family, icemaker undercounter with low capacity will be alright, e.g. Smad Under Counter Commercial Portable Ice Maker from our list. However, you should choose a bigger size for a restaurant, company break-rooms, etc. You might like Manitowoc UDF0140A NEO 26 Air Cooled Undercounter Dice Cube as a commercial undercounter ice maker with high capacity.
Undercounter Vs. Portable
Both machines, of course, have their pros and cons. Let’s find out them so that you can make an educated guess on which unit caters to your needs better.
The best portable ice maker is suitable for light use, e.g. 2-3 people in a family.
Its benefits:
- Lightweight, portable and compact design
- It doesn’t require a drain or water line
Drawback:
- Low capacity
- You’ll have to add water all the time
Undercounter ice maker is suitable for those who need a lot of frozen pieces and have enough space to keep such a big machine in the kitchen.
Pros:
- Produce a lot of frozen pieces
- High capacity
- It’ is automated
Cons:
- Takes much space
- It’s difficult to move such equipment
- Need a water line and/or drain
There is no ideal machine, whatever appliance you choose – an ice maker, the best blender for ice, etc. – you have to choose the unit suitable for you!
How To Choose The Best Undercounter Ice Maker
You should know the following criteria in order to choose the most suitable machine for you.
Size
As it was said above, the size of your machine depends on your needs. If you are choosing a big unit for your kitchen, measure out space where you plan to install the unit. Make sure that it’ll fit there seamlessly. If you don’t have enough room for an in-built item but want high-productive equipment, maybe you would like to consider outdoor ice maker undercounter.
Daily Ice Production
It’s a key point to ensure you get the machine that will meet your needs. If your equipment doesn’t produce enough amount of frozen pieces, you’ll end up with buying additional supplements or do without ice. And your machine will become almost useless. Read manufacturers specs, where they point out the capacity and production rate. Furthermore, you have to provide optimal environment for your equipment: it must be installed properly, well-ventilated, and the temperature around the unit should be around 70F (for some models it can be higher). If you don’t keep these rules, the production rate may decline.
Storage Bin
When you are buying a unit, consider the capacity and characteristics of the storage bin. It’s great if it prevents frozen pieces from melting. For this purpose, you should opt for an undercounter freezer with ice maker, e.g. Edge Star Built-in Ice Maker 25 Lbs.
Ice Type
Do you want your machine to produce frozen pieces in a certain shape? Why not? Just choose a proper type of equipment: an undercounter nugget ice machine, undercounter crushed ice maker, undercounter ice maker drawer which produces cube ice or crescent one. It’s up to your taste!
Energy Efficiency
Making ice requires much water and electricity, and if you care for the environment and your bills, then you should opt for the machine rated by Energy Star. However, certified units most likely will be commercial ones. Nevertheless, check the information from manufacturers, some trusted companies make Energy Star under cabinet ice makers for home use.
Also, avoid buying a machine with a high production level if you don’t really need plenty of frozen pieces, there is no sense. You’ll pay for more expensive equipment, plus you’ll get huge bills.
Drainage
There are 3 types of ice makers in terms of drainage:
- units that don’t require drainage
- gravity drain units
- undercounter ice maker with drain pump
Most undercounter machines need a drain line. However, there are several manufacturers which produce so-called “drainless” units. EdgeStar IB120SS is one of such models. It stores the ice frozen, so there is no need to drain water. If a machine doesn’t keep the pieces frozen, it melts and must drain.
Cooling System
The cooling system exhausts heat produced by the machine while making ice. There are 3 types of such a system:
- Air-cooled – cheaper, more energy-efficient system; work well in a clean environment and the temperature must not be too high.
- Water-cooled – such a system is used in areas where it’s difficult to control the temperature; it consumes much water.
- Remote-condenser air-cooled – is a complicated, rarely used system, which involves putting condenser on the roof.
Price
A good machine costs between $250-$5,000, the price range is really wide. It will depend on the quality, size, production rate, capacity, brand, etc. However, if you want to buy the best ice maker for home bar, you won’t need to rob a bank, really. The machines on our list are reasonable-priced, which makes them even more appealing for customers.
Other Features
- ADA (American With Disabilities Act Design Guidelines) compliance – you need it if you are going to install a machine in an office, or other public places.
- Water filter – some units come with installed water filters. Your drinks will be healthier and tastier.
- Warranty – if manufacturers offer a long-lasting warranty, it means they stand behind their products and promises. Whatever you buy, always check this option, it’ll tell you a lot!
Best Undercounter Ice Maker Types
Built-in
Built-in units are designed to fit seamlessly under your kitchen countertop. They won’t take too much space, and, mainly, are easy to install. Such equipment has front exhaust fans for better versatility.
Undercounter
Undercounter ice makers can be freestanding ones and/or built-in. This type gives you more flexibility. If there is such a need, you can even put it outdoors, you just have to create a suitable environment for your machine.
VERDICT AND OUR RECOMMENDATION FOR 2023
Undercounter ice makers do a great job! We make tasty, refreshing drinks with their help. Can you imagine a party or a hot day without such drinks? We can’t! That’s why we love this equipment! Undercounter ice machines are convenient – they make plenty of ice and fit perfectly into a kitchen. So, which is the #1 machine today?
We, at mykitchenadvisor.com, consider EdgeStar Built-in Ice Maker the best undercounter ice maker 2023. It is one of the most multifunctional and user-friendly machines on our list. As it’s a freestanding ice maker, you can place it wherever you want. This unit doesn’t need a drain, comes with a scoop, has a reversible door and other great features. Our team likes this best ice maker for its versatility, good quality, and reasonable price.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
No, not all units need a drain. As it was said above, there are 3 types of machines in terms of drainage: the ones that don’t require drainage; gravity drain units; undercounter ice maker with drain pump.You need to pour water into a portable ice maker. An undercounter ice machine or freestanding one requires a water line.It depends on the model, but generally, an average ice machine will draw about 4 Amps.No, basically they aren’t noisy. These units can create some noise when frozen pieces are being made. If your machine is loud, it might have broken down and needs repair.The best undercounter ice maker lasts about 4-5 years, or within a warranty. However, like any other appliance, it may live longer if you take proper care of it. For example, you have to know how to clean an ice maker, how to maintain it, what environment is suitable for your device, etc.PRODUCTS TESTED BY MyKitchenAdvisor
How We TestedWe are friendly and a big team of foodies and party animals, so we know about ice makers a lot. Anyway, we decided to test machines before writing this article. Our first step was to read all undercounter ice maker reviews available online and customer reports. When we narrowed down the choice, we asked 10 people, who’d already used such equipment, to test the units and give feedback. When we put together all the information, we finally came up with this post. We hope it’ll be helpful for you!related reviews
Share your thoghts
COMMENTS
25 July, 2021
yeah the author did a great job! all models in the shopping list seem to be quality and reliable.extra thanks for the Buyer’s guide, there is plenty of useful info for me!adding this site to my bookmarks!
16 July, 2021
Thanks for such a comprehensive review!
25 June, 2021
don't pick commercial grade model, they are not for home use..
18 June, 2021
👋Hello everyone! Need a piece of advice from experts or those who have already purchased an undercounter ice maker. I’ve got a big kitchen - 250+ square feet. My wife says we need a commercial-sized machine ‘cause it’ll look better in such a huge space. But in my opinion, it’ll be too much for our family of 4. So, what size ice machine do I need? Any ideas? Thanks in advance!
3 June, 2021
Been looking for some good ice maker for quite a while now. It’s my parents’ wedding anniversary in a few months - 40 years together! And my hubby suggested buying an ice machine as a present for them. Good idea, right? So, now we are choosing a model. What do you think about the U-Line brand? We like that their ice maker doesn’t require a drain installation and keeps the ice frozen. Should we buy it?
1 June, 2021
very useful article
14 May, 2021
Really like the Sunpentown drainless ice maker... It looks pretty stylish, and has a lot of great feedback from users... PLUS,, I think the features are really cool - it’s the size of a mini-fridge, produces plenty of ice and holds it in a frozen state, unlike other models I’ve looked at.. I think this would be the best choice for me.
8 May, 2021
imho EdgeStar is the best brand if you are seeking an ice maker for the home.the siez of the machine is right, it works flawlessly, the ice cubes are great. other than that this ice maker is easy to install, use, and defrost.seems like a good deal to me.
15 April, 2021
Hi there👋! I was looking for a small ice maker for my home bar, but there are so many options available on the market. Didn’t really know what to choose, since I had never picked one before. So thank you soooo much for your detailed review, really helped me understand what to look for.😉