The 13 Best Commercial Ice Makers

Commercial establishments like coffee shops, bars, and restaurants require a high-performing ice maker. Cold beverages are an absolute must, and you also need a constant supply of ice.

To accommodate the high demand for massive ice production, ice machines have become the mainstay for commercial kitchens. If your restaurant business has long-term orientation, make sure you have a commercial ice maker to produce quality ice. With the help of technology today, quality ice makers that double as freezers can provide a sufficient quantity of ice cubes all day.

The best ice makers save you maximum operating costs while ensuring your customers are satisfied. Commercial ice machines provide easily accessible ice, which is ideal for concession stands and cafeterias to cool drinks effectively.

To save your time and effort, we have compiled a list of the best commercial ice makers on the market. Read on to find out more about what suits your needs best.

The Best Commercial Ice Makers

Top ProductsRatingIce Production Capacity
1. Hoshizaki F-330BAJ Ice Maker5.0330 lbs
2. Scotsman N0622A-1 Prodigy Plus Nugget-Style Ice Maker5.0643 lbs
3. Costzon Commercial Ice Maker4.1110 lbs
4. hOmeLabs Freestanding Commercial Ice Maker Machine4.499 lbs
5. Happybuy 110V Commercial Ice Maker4.1120 lbs

1. HOmeLabs (Freestanding) Commercial Ice Maker

A commercial ice machine that is easy to install and comes fully fledged is a dream for most restaurant owners. But in the case of the hOmeLabs commercial ice machine, that dream is a reality. It includes everything you require to get the ice maker installed and running with high precision and efficiency. This model can churn out a whopping 99 lbs of ice daily with 11-20 minute cycles. Along with that, it also includes an ice scoop, water supply connecter, water supply hose, and draining hose. That means the only extra thing you’ll need to buy is a power cord.

For those looking for hassle-free installation and reasonable price tag, the hOmeLabs freestanding ice maker is the way to go. It comes highly recommended on various websites and offers the best solution for most businesses.

Best Features: 

  • LCD indicator and controls
  • Stores up to 1/3 of its output
  • Adjustable ice cube thickness settings

2. Costzon Commercial Ice Maker

The Costzon ice maker is one of the most budget-friendly industrial ice machines on the market. Despite being affordable, this model stands out by producing 110 lbs. of quality ice per day. It also uses 99% of the supplied water for cubing, making it highly efficient by reducing water wastage. Moreover, this commercial-grade ice machine features a distinctive heat dispersion method. It uses a powerful 300W air-cooled compressor, and the mesh-like gradient pulls heat away from the freezer. As a result, it ensures that the ice cubes remain structurally sound until you scoop them out.

Furthermore, it’s a superb choice for restaurant owners and won’t break the bank. It provides excellent daily output and is easy-to-use.

Best Features: 

  • Affordable
  • Elegant freestanding design
  • High output
  • Produces clear standard 0.9 x 0.9 x 0.9” cubes

3. Scotsman N0622A-1 Prodigy Plus

Nugget ice has become popular, and restaurant owners have started to use their ice for soft drinks, slushies’ and smoothies. As a result, the Scotsman N0622A-1 Prodigy Plus nugget ice maker is in high demand. Given its extra-ordinary daily output of 643 lbs. per day, it’s no surprise that it’s the first choice for many. Moreover, this model boasts an auto-alert system that signals when the ice bin is full. An indicator system like this also gives you a heads up when the appliance needs sterilization. Besides that, it also detects potential operational issues hindering total capacity production.

This Scotsman model is perfect for high volume commercial kitchens that need plenty of ice every day. It has the capacity and storage to create a large turnover of nuggets, pebble ice.

Best Features: 

  • Unique auto-alert system
  • Reusable air filter
  • Easy to clean
  • Removable panels

4. Hoshizaki F-330BAJ

Another sought-after model featuring flake ice producing system is the Hoshizaki F – 330BAJ. Several industries have found unique uses for flake ice, and many restaurant owners have turned to this model. This flake ice machine produces a remarkable volume of safe, good-quality, moldable flake ice. It can make up to 330 lbs. of fresh ice every day.  

Unlike other flake ice machines, the Hoshizaki F-330BAJ boasts an automatic internal flush system. As the name suggests, this unique system automatically clears wastewater and melted ice out of the system to prevent mildew growth. Therefore, the machine enjoys a longer lifespan overall. It comes with an advanced CleanCycle design and a greaseless bearing construction that is easy to maintain.

Furthermore, this model’s evaporator assembly is protected internally, preventing excess ice from building up and causing malfunctions through contact. Overall, this flake ice maker has an excellent self-preservation mechanism that makes it well worth the investment.

Best Features: 

  • Automated flush system
  • Evaporation protected from peak-sized loads
  • Built-in storage
  • front-facing access

5.Happybuy 110V Commercial Ice Maker

The Happybuy ice machine is the most outstanding industrial model on the market. It makes up to 150 lbs. 

ice per day with 11 to 16-minute ice-making cycles. Its output sits firmly within the average ice production for a model for this size.

This model stands out for one remarkable feature; its multi-grid ice plate steals the show. This distinctive construction set up allows this appliance to churn out a higher number of standard density ice cubes using half the amount of water. As a result, this model is incredibly water efficient and environment-friendly.

Moreover, the Happybuy ice maker features an auto-cleaning setup and an easy-to-use control panel. You can adjust the thickness of ice depending on your desired preferences by pressing the (+) or (-) buttons. For instance, you can decide from thin, medium, and thick settings. Lastly, it has a rust-resistant, durable food-grade stainless body perfect for coffee shops, hotels, and bars.

Best Features:

  • Speedy production cycle
  • Easy-to-clean food-grade stainless steel
  • High-efficiency output
  • Multi-grid ice plate

6. Ice-O-Matic

The Ice-O-Matic commercial half ice cube maker comes with two unique features. It comes with half cube output mechanism and the boasts a portfolio of several energy efficiency certifications.

This model produced a “half cube” that is also flared at the base for the premium quality. This allows several cubes to release from the compressor and split up more quickly.

As for the certifications, the Ice-O-Matic triumphs over all of its competitors. This model is Energy Star, UL, and NSF listed. Therefore, it indicates that it’s one of the most energy-efficient appliances in its class. If you’re using large quantities of ice every day, you can expect to get good savings down the line. Lastly, it has a compact width, which makes it ideal for bars and coffee shops.

Best Features: 

  • Fits comfortably under most counters
  • Front-facing air intake
  • Energy Star, NSF, and UL listed

7. VEVOR

The Vevor commercial ice maker is one of the leading models among competitors. Other models are behemoths and put out more ice then most mid-sized establishments could ever require. Luckily, models like the VEVOR 110V industrial ice maker provide a moderate amount of ice with up to 55 cubes for one cycle of 12 to 18 minutes.

It also makes ice cube transferring a breeze with its ergonomic ice scoop, which itself comes included with every VEVOR model. Moreover, every model includes a built-in water filter that purifies all water entering the ice maker for better-tasting cubes and requires less maintenance. If you’re looking for an appliance that is good value for money, go for the VEVOR 110V commercial ice maker. It’s ideal for mid-sized restaurants and household use.

Best Features: 

  • Easy to use control panel
  • Modest production ideal for mid-sized establishments
  • Water filter and ice scoop

8. BEAMNOVA

The BEAMNOVA Commercial Ice stands out with its inexpensive price tag and quality performance. It’s easily one of the most affordable models in its class. It can even produce up to 100 lbs of ice per day – an impressive capacity for such a cheap appliance!

Moreover, the Beamnova model features an LED indicator and an auto control mechanism. It shuts itself off when the 35 lbs. storage tank is full. By the same virtue, it also restarts itself to produce more ice once it senses the ice levels are below a certain threshold. You can also program this model to start on your schedule. Besides that, it has sleek stainless steel built, which makes it an attractive freestanding unit for commercial kitchens.

Best Features: 

  • Auto shut off and restart mechanism
  • Cheapest model
  • LED indicator
  • Timing function

9. Manitowoc UYF0310A Neo

The Manitowoc UYF0310A Neo ice machine’s under-counter construction is one of its prominent assets. It can seamlessly fit into any kitchen space just as a dishwasher would. Accessing and installing this model is also as easy as opening your dishwasher. You can open the anti-freeze front-facing door with just a touch.

Moreover, this model features a LuminIce Growth Inhibitor is that no other model at this price point can offer. This unique internal component passes “active air” through all surfaces that contact the water or melting ice. As a result, it decreases the likelihood of bacteria, yeast, and other common micro-organisms growing in these areas. It’s also one of the most sanitary ice makers on this list.

Best Features: 

  • Compact under-counter construction
  • Easy to open
  • Freeze-resistant
  • Front-facing the door
  • Incredible sanitation due to continuous “active air.”

10. Ensue-Commercial Ice Maker

The Ensue is more cumbersome than some other models listed. Designed for creating ice in bulk, it’s ideal for most restaurant owners. For a business’s catering to a larger customer base, this ice maker is best suitable. 

The Ensue commercial ice maker offers quality performance and efficient ice production. As a result, it’s perfect for bars, restaurants, and coffee shops with a lot of traffic. Moreover, it uses 200-watt power supply for making ice and produces up to 100 pounds of ice daily. It features an LED front display for easy operation so you can tell if all the functions and controls are working correctly. Besides that, it has a storage capacity of up to 30 pounds of ice that can fit into the holding area. If you’re looking for the best-budget ice maker, we recommend the Ensue commercial ice maker.

Best Features:

  • Ideal for making ice cubes in bulk
  • Freestanding design
  • A 100lbs ice making capacity

11. EdgeStar – IB120SS Built-in Ice Maker

Unlike the other models we’ve listed, the EdgeStar is slightly smaller. However, it’s perfect for a full-service restaurant or bar. For your convenience, it comes with a partial water line. Moreover, it has a vent latched in the front to be installed as a freestanding unit. The EdgeStar can produce up to 12 pounds of ice every day. While it’s lesser than other models, it also produces ice efficiently in less time. It can store up to half of that amount in its holding area. It’s built to keep the ice cool for extended periods. This unit doubles as a freezer, so you don’t require a drainage system.

Best Features:

  • Freestanding design
  • Easy operating system
  • Convenient and affordable installation
  • Drainage line not required

12. EdgeStar-IB450SSP Undercounter Clear Ice Maker

This EdgeStar is a bigger version of the previous version we discussed. This EdgeStar model can hold up to 25 pounds of ice. Moreover, it includes a convenient drain pipe and is well-insulated. Keep in mind that industrial-scale ice machines require a drain pump to function properly. For easy access, the door is reversible. Best of all, this machine features adjustable legs, so you can decide the perfect height to suit your preferences. It also features a three-steps installation. It can install easily and produces clear ice cubes of amazing quality.

Best Features:

  • 25lbs of ice storage
  • 50lbs of ice production per day
  • Stainless steel door
  • Removable ice bin
  • Computerized controls
  • Adjustable legs, freestanding application

13. Luma Comfort IM200SS Ice Maker

Given its quality of producing restaurant-quality ice, it’s quite popular in cafes. The Luma comfort ice maker is ruling over the internet right now! For smaller establishments that have a cramped kitchen area, this commercial ice maker is ideal. It can produce up to 28 pounds of ice daily, and this range of size is pretty impressive. We highly recommend the Luma ice maker because it doesn’t require installation. You can simply plug it in and manually add water. It’s a suitable commercial ice maker for medium-sized restaurants. Every 15 minutes, it completes one ice cycle. The Luma looks attractive for its sleek design and sturdy build. It also features a smart button control pad for easy use. Lastly, Luma never produces ice that’s cloudy. So, if you’re a clear ice fan, consider buying the Luma comfort ice maker.

Best Features:

  • Produces clear, restaurant-quality ice
  • Compact and convenient design
  • Powerful compressor
  • 15-minute ice cycle

Types of Commercial Ice Makers

Not all ice makers are alike, even though they look the same on the surface. There are several types of commercial ice makers that come with various functional features and different installation requirements.

When shopping for a brand new industrial ice maker, be sure to determine which model will best suit your ice production and storage needs. Here are some options to help you choose:

Self-Contained Ice Makers

This is one of the most common types overall. It contains both an ice generator and a storage tank in the same unit. Moreover, they provide extra storage & ice-making capacity than other household appliances. This type can also save space by combining both functions of a freezer and an ice maker into a single unit.

Modular Ice Machines

These types of units are lean, compact-sized ice-making machines. Because they lack long-term ice storage, you’ll require a means of ice soon after it is made. These units are ideal for high capacity commercial kitchens that need plenty of ice in less time.

Under Counter Ice Makers

This is a subset of self-contained ice machines. Under-counter ice makers have the ability to both producing and storing ice. However, models of this type are unique because they can easily fit under a 40″ counter. The compact size is ideal for commercial kitchens, and they provide remarkable production capacity.  

Countertop Ice Dispensers

These types of ice makers can sit on counter-tops and produce a large volume of ice cubes per day. They rarely offer much (if any) storage. Moreover, they are most popular in healthcare or homes where people use chewable nugget ice.  

Combinations Ice/Water Machines

Similar to the set up of ice-making soda machines, these units can output ice and water together. As a result, they have a trimmed-down ice cube making capacity. However, they are convenient to use, making them popular in break rooms and cafeterias due to their small footprint.

Choosing the Best Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker

Under-counter Ice Maker

Like all essential kitchen appliances, buying a new model is challenging. This is because all the specialized terminologies and jargon thrown around product listings are hard to understand. You’ll be forced to search every last term to ensure that you are getting what you planned to.

In this buyer’s guide, we’ll help eliminate that hassle. Shared here are several common terms you’ll observe on ice machine listing and packaging. Read on and be empowered to compare some of the industry-leading models.  

Size & Capacity

You can use these terms interchangeably, but they can refer to different model specifications. In other words, storage in this context refers to the amount that a commercial ice maker can store before shutting off automatically.

However, size refers to the amount of the ice produced, and their average measurement in inches. Most ice makers produce cubes within the 1″ range, though nugget or flake ice machines may produce ice pieces that vary from piece to piece.

For smaller and portable options, check out our guide to counter-top portable machines.

Speed

This term, referred to as the “cycle speed,” defines how quickly an ice maker can output a set volume of ice cubes over a set period. Moreover, this volume is measured by gauging how much ice the machine produces in 24 hours. It can range from 12 lbs and go up to 500 lbs.  

Speed is an essential indicator for fast-paced restaurants that require plenty of ice during daily operations. The speed and cycle time dictate how quickly the machine drops a new batch of ice for harvesting.

Power Source

As with other kitchen appliances, commercial ice machines are attached to a power source that may not be energy efficient. Most modern models in the market are energy efficient and draw less energy. However, only some models have reached eco-friendly levels of energy consumption. These models come with various energy efficiency certifications. For example, some models have Energy Star certification on fixtures and packaging.

Furthermore, several ice makers come without the power cord. Therefore, you should plan and consult a professional before shopping to ensure that you have the proper electricity source available for your new unit.

Water Source

Another important thing to consider when you make ice at home is the water connection. If you want to serve ice cubes in an ice tray, a freshwater source can make a substantial difference in their quality. Purified water sources produce taste-free cubes and nuggets every time, while untreated water sources can bring undesirable impurities. In that case, you’ll need to add pre-filtration devices to your ice machine’s water input source.

Water sourcing also influences the amount of maintenance you’ll have to commit to the new appliance. Unfiltered sources with large amounts of metal or mineral deposits clog up internal piping and calcify tubes faster. As a result, you’ll need dish out dough for the upkeep of your ice machine.

Compressor Type

Also referred to as “condenser,” the internal compressor is the critical mechanism responsible for cooling different components to the point that ice cubes can form up.

There are different types of compressors available on the market, and each type has an impact on your installation choice. It depends on the operating temperature and ventilation requirements of the appliance. We recommend consulting a professional before installing the new ice machine.  

Drain

This isn’t always mentioned on labeling material, but proper drainage is crucial to ensure your ice maker operates efficiently. Lead the internal draining out of the system to ensure water doesn’t build and freeze outside the compressor chamber.

Drainage requirements vary significantly from model to model. In general, a commercial ice maker requires an output pipe that carries residual water away from the unit without manual interaction.

Accessories

Not all models come with standard accessories. But these essential accessories are necessary for proper ice-making operation. Some of these accessories include storage bins, water filters and ice scoops.

If you’re looking to buy a commercial ice maker, always determine all the accessories you’ll require to operate the fixture efficiently. You must also check to see if they are included with your purchase and come with the shipment.

Installation and Setup

Like other fixtures, installation and setup are best handled by an electrician with in-depth knowledge. They must have studies how the appliance operates and interacts with other kitchen equipment.Local plumbers can easily install and advise on different Ice machines.

Don’t Forget:

You should always consider how much work is required for proper installation. It can indicate how much continuous maintenance and upkeep will be necessary down the line.

Price and Warranty

If you’re on a budget, price is crucial when it comes to picking the best commercial ice maker out there. Prices can vary greatly, with higher rates correlating with higher ice production capacity and larger storage bins.

Prices are dictated by how much a model can offer, so models with fewer separate functions and accessories cost less.

In terms of the warranty, many manufacturers today include a warranty to cover specific internal components prone to problems in the short-term. You must ensure to carefully read warranty statements so you can take advantage of them if your commercial ice maker breaks down suddenly.

Types of Compressors

At the heart of every commercial ice-making machine is the compressor. This component plays a central role in generating ice. It precipitates and maintains the internal cooling system as the ice is made. There are several methods of completing this process, so you should consider which method is best suited to your requirements. Here are some options:

Air Cooled

As the most popular compressor type, air-cooled compressors are the most cost-effective for long-term use. They don’t require an extra water supply line to cool the internal systems for ice production properly. Some of the air-cooled models are Energy Star certified, but most require 6″ or more clearance to ventilate efficiently.

Water Cooled

Water cooled compressors are less common because air-cooled models outstrip them in terms of performance and efficiency. However, this compressor type is still popular for installation in locations with a higher than 80-degree average temperature.

Moreover, these models are installed in tight locations, where ventilation is limited. This is because water-cooled units can’t rely on fans to cool internal components.

Remote Cooled

A unique blend of the other two types, this compressor uses both air cooling and coolant lines to prepare its ice-making components for operation. Best of all, these models are noiseless. However, they are also the most expensive.

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