Picture this: you are hosting a lively gathering, and just as the conversation peaks, you open the ice bin to find it empty. No clinking cubes, no chilled drinks. That scenario is exactly why investing in one of the best under counter ice machines can transform your kitchen or bar. These compact powerhouses fit neatly beneath your counter, producing a steady stream of ice for parties, daily use, or even light commercial settings. In this guide, we have evaluated four top models from brands like EUHOMY, COTLINCommercialAppliance, and Mojgar to help you choose the right unit for your space and needs.
Pros
- No drain required, saving on professional installation
- Large 22-pound ice bin for extended use without frequent emptying
- Slow-melting crescent ice improves drink quality
- Compact design fits standard under counter spaces
- ETL certified for safety and quality assurance
Cons
- Weighs 62 pounds, making installation a two-person job
- Requires connection to a water line, which may still need basic plumbing
- Daily ice production (42 lbs) may be limited for very high-demand commercial use
The COTLIN 15" drainless under counter ice maker is built for homeowners and small business owners who want fresh, high-quality ice without the hassle of a traditional drain line. It produces 42 pounds of crescent ice per day and stores up to 22 pounds in a durable stainless steel bin. This model is designed to fit neatly under standard kitchen counters, making it a practical upgrade for any kitchen or bar area.
Its standout feature is the drainless system, which eliminates the need for a permanent drain connection. This simplifies installation and allows you to place the unit almost anywhere with a water supply. The crescent ice shape is not only aesthetically pleasing but also melts slowly, keeping drinks cold without diluting them quickly. The powerful freezing system maintains a consistent temperature between 26.6 and 32 degrees Fahrenheit, so ice stays solid and fresh.
Build quality is solid, with a brushed stainless steel finish that resists smudges and cleans easily. The reversible door and adjustable feet add flexibility for various layouts. The one-touch start makes operation straightforward, and the ETL certification provides peace of mind regarding safety and performance. COTLIN also offers lifetime service support, which adds long-term value.
Some drawbacks include the unit's weight (62 pounds), which may require assistance during installation. While the drainless design eliminates a major plumbing step, you still need a nearby water source. Daily production of 42 pounds is sufficient for most homes and small offices, but high-traffic commercial settings might need a larger unit.
Overall, the COTLIN drainless ice maker is a reliable and user-friendly choice for anyone seeking a built-in ice solution without the complexity of traditional models. Its combination of sleek design, quality ice, and flexible installation makes it a strong contender in the under-counter ice maker category. If you value convenience and consistent ice production, this is a worthy investment.
Pros
- Rapid ice production: makes ice in 11-15 minutes per cycle, easily keeping up with high demand.
- Excellent value: much more affordable than other commercial units, yet delivers comparable performance.
- Quiet operation: compressor runs quietly, suitable for use near living or sleeping areas.
- Versatile ice thickness control: customize cubes for different drinks and uses.
- Easy maintenance: self-cleaning function and removable parts simplify regular upkeep.
Cons
- Requires gravity drainage: must be installed above a floor drain or with a gravity outlet, no pump included.
- Occasional error codes or need to reset: some users report having to unplug the unit every few months to clear a malfunction code.
- Regular cleaning needed: every 2-4 weeks to prevent mold and maintain hygiene.
The EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker is a workhorse designed for anyone who needs a steady supply of ice without breaking the bank. It produces up to 100 pounds of ice per day, with each cycle crafting 45 clear cubes in just 11 to 15 minutes. Whether you are hosting a backyard party, running a coffee shop, or stocking a vacation home, this machine delivers consistent, fast ice production that easily replaces the hassle of bagged ice.
Standout features include a 33-pound built-in storage bin with automatic overflow prevention, an intuitive LCD control panel that lets you adjust ice thickness, and a one-touch self-cleaning function. Real-world performance is impressive: users report it cranks out ice quickly even in warm, humid environments, and the cubes hold up well in coolers for hours. The unit is also surprisingly quiet, making it suitable for placement near bedrooms or living spaces.
Design and build quality are solid. The stainless steel exterior looks professional and helps with heat dissipation, while the compact under-counter dimensions (about 16 by 17.5 by 31 inches) allow it to fit in most standard spaces. However, installation requires careful planning because the machine uses gravity drainage, meaning you need a floor drain or a gravity outlet lower than the unit. No pump is included, so this is a key consideration before purchase.
Drawbacks are few but worth noting. Some owners mention occasional error codes that require unplugging the machine for 30 minutes to reset. Regular cleaning every few weeks is essential to prevent mold, and the fit and finish are not as premium as units costing three times as much. However, given the price and performance, these trade-offs are acceptable for most buyers.
Overall, the EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker is an outstanding value. It combines high capacity, fast production, and user-friendly controls in a durable, ETL-certified package. If you need reliable ice for entertaining or light commercial use and can accommodate the gravity drain requirement, this machine is a smart investment that will quickly pay for itself.
Pros
- High ice production capacity (90 lb/day) meets heavy usage needs
- Compact footprint fits tight spaces without sacrificing performance
- Integrated water filter improves ice taste and clarity
- Wi-Fi connectivity and timer add smart convenience
- Self-cleaning feature simplifies maintenance
Cons
- Heavy unit at 62 pounds may require two people for installation
- Only 12 customer reviews available, so long-term reliability is less proven
- Requires a drain connection, which may complicate installation in some settings
The ICEPURE 15-inch under counter ice maker is a compact yet powerful solution for anyone who needs a steady supply of ice without taking up valuable counter space. Designed for built-in or freestanding use, it fits perfectly in home bars, RVs, kitchens, or small commercial settings. With a 90-pound daily production capacity and a 26-pound storage bin, this machine can keep up with parties, busy households, or light business use.
Standout features include Wi-Fi remote control and a 24-hour timer, allowing you to adjust ice thickness and schedule production from your phone. The built-in activated carbon filter removes chlorine, sediment, and odors, delivering clean, great-tasting ice. The self-cleaning function and smart alerts for ice full or low water make operation nearly hands-off, which is a major convenience for busy users.
Build quality is solid with a stainless steel exterior that resists fingerprints and looks professional. The unit measures 15 inches wide, 18.7 inches deep, and 33.9 inches high, fitting standard under-counter spaces. It uses R290 refrigerant and is ETL and FCC certified for safety. The included drain pump simplifies drainage, though you will need a nearby drain connection.
Potential drawbacks include the weight of 62 pounds, which can make installation a two-person job. With only 12 customer reviews so far, long-term reliability is not yet well established. Additionally, the unit requires a drain line, which may add complexity for some installations. Noise levels are not specified in the data, but under-counter ice makers typically produce some operational sound.
Overall, the ICEPURE 15-inch under counter ice maker offers an impressive combination of capacity, smart features, and filtration in a compact form. It is a strong choice for homeowners, RV enthusiasts, or small businesses that value convenience and ice quality. If you can manage the installation requirements and weight, this machine delivers reliable performance for its price point.
Pros
- High ice output (100 lbs/day) meets moderate commercial demands
- Self-cleaning feature reduces upkeep effort significantly
- Energy-efficient R290 compressor lowers operating costs
- Compact undercounter size fits easily in tight spaces
- Stainless steel construction resists rust and is easy to clean
Cons
- Requires a floor drain for gravity drainage; a pump is not included
- Storage bin is not a freezer, so ice may melt if not used quickly in warm environments
- Unit must remain upright for 24 hours before first use to let refrigerant settle
The Mojgar CIM-360F is a commercial-grade undercounter ice maker that produces up to 100 pounds of clear ice every 24 hours. Designed for home bars, cafes, offices, and small businesses, it balances high output with a compact footprint. The first batch arrives in just 10 to 18 minutes, making it perfect for events or busy shifts.
Standout features include a self-cleaning function that simplifies maintenance and an adjustable ice thickness control. The 18-33 pound storage bin holds enough ice for over 200 drinks, though it is not refrigerated, so ice will gradually melt if not used quickly. The R290 compressor delivers faster cooling and cuts energy bills by up to 30%, a significant long-term saving.
Build quality is solid: heavy-duty stainless steel resists rust, and all interior components are food-grade for purity. The unit measures 15.16x15.75x29.88 inches and fits under standard cabinets with front venting. Setup is straightforward but requires a nearby floor drain because it relies on gravity drainage; a drain pump is not included.
A few drawbacks to note: the storage bin's lack of refrigeration means you may lose ice during low-demand periods, and the unit needs 24 hours upright before first use. Also, at 42.3 pounds, it is reasonably heavy but manageable for two-person installation.
Overall, the Mojgar CIM-360F delivers reliable performance and smart energy savings in a compact package. It is an excellent choice for anyone needing a steady supply of clear ice with minimal fuss, as long as you can accommodate the gravity drain requirement.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Under Counter Ice Machine
Choosing the ideal ice maker requires balancing production speed, installation effort, and storage capacity. Below we break down the four most critical factors to consider before buying. For reference, maintaining your kitchen appliances also involves clean air; you might want to check our guide on best 16x25x5 air filters if your home furnace shares space with your ice machine.
Ice Production and Storage Capacity
Think about how much ice you use daily. A family of four might get by with 50 pounds per day, while a home bar or small cafe often needs 90 pounds or more. The units we reviewed produce between 90 and 100 pounds every 24 hours, with storage bins holding anywhere from 22 to 33 pounds. Keep in mind that ice production is separate from storage; once the bin is full, the machine pauses. Look for a model with a bin size that matches how often you empty it.
Drainless vs Gravity Drainage
One of the biggest differentiators is how the machine removes meltwater. Drainless models use a recirculation system that requires no plumbing connection beyond a water supply, making them easier to install. Units with gravity drainage need a floor drain or a pump to expel water, which adds installation complexity but often allows for higher ice production and quieter operation. If you are tight on space under the counter, the drainless option from COTLIN is a standout choice.
Installation Flexibility and Size
These machines are designed to slide under standard kitchen counters, but dimensions vary. Typically, a 15-inch width fits most gaps, but check height and depth, especially if you have a backsplash or plumbing. Some units allow reversible doors to match your cabinet layout, and adjustable feet level the machine on uneven floors. Most of our picks can be installed freestanding or built in, as long as the front venting is unobstructed. For homes with allergy concerns, pairing your ice maker with a high quality furnace filter can improve indoor air quality; our best 16x25x4 furnace filters guide recommends top options.
Control Features and Maintenance
Modern ice machines come with digital controls, self-cleaning cycles, and even Wi-Fi connectivity. An intuitive LCD display lets you adjust ice cube thickness, monitor bin status, and start a cleaning cycle with one tap. Self-cleaning functions are especially valuable because they remove mineral buildup and keep ice tasting fresh. Some models also include built-in water filters to eliminate off flavors from chlorine or sediment. If you value hands-off convenience, look for a model with a timer or remote app control.
Final Thoughts
After evaluating these four under counter ice machines, we are confident that the COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker offers the best blend of premium design and effortless installation for those who want a drainless unit with reversible doors and durable stainless steel construction, while the EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine delivers exceptional value with its 100 pound daily output and intuitive LCD controls, making it a strong choice for high demand homes or small businesses. Whichever you choose, you will finally have ice on demand, every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do under counter ice machines need a drain?
It depends on the model. Some units like the COTLIN are drainless, using a recirculating system that only requires a water supply line. Others, including the EUHOMY and Mojgar, use gravity drainage and need a floor drain or a pump to remove meltwater. Check your kitchen plumbing before deciding, and ensure the drain hose is lower than the machine for proper flow.
How much ice can an under counter ice maker produce per day?
Most residential and light commercial models produce between 90 and 100 pounds of ice every 24 hours. For example, the ICEPURE unit makes 90 pounds, while the EUHOMY and Mojgar deliver 100 pounds. That is enough for a large party or a busy cafe. Storage bins typically hold 22 to 33 pounds, so production keeps up as you use the ice.
Are under counter ice machines easy to install?
Many models are designed for DIY installation, especially drainless ones that only need a water supply connection. Gravity drain units require a bit more planning for drainage, but the steps are straightforward: connect the water line, attach the drain hose, and plug in the power. Always let the machine sit upright for 24 hours before first use to let the refrigerant settle. For extra peace of mind with indoor air quality, consider pairing your ice maker with a quality furnace filter; our guide on best 16x20x4 furnace filters can help you choose.
Can I use an under counter ice maker for commercial purposes?
Yes, but only if the machine is certified for commercial use. The EUHOMY and Mojgar models we reviewed are ETL certified for both home and commercial settings, meaning they meet safety standards for restaurants, bars, and cafes. Always verify certifications before installing in a business, and consider a model with a drain pump if your setup lacks a floor drain.
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