Best Commercial Ice Maker: Comprehensive Buying Guide (2023)

Commercial ice makers are essential for businesses that require a constant supply of ice. These machines are designed to produce large quantities of ice cubes, flakes, or nuggets, depending on the specific needs of the business. Commercial ice makers come in various sizes, shapes, and capacities, and they can be installed in different locations, such as under-counter, countertop, or freestanding.

When purchasing a commercial ice maker, there are several critical factors to consider. The first one is the production capacity of the machine, which is measured in pounds of ice per day. This capacity should match the demand of the business to avoid overworking the machine or running out of ice during peak hours. Another important factor is the type of ice the machine produces, as different types of ice have different uses and applications. Additionally, the size and dimensions of the machine should fit the available space in the business, and the installation requirements should be feasible.

We spent extensive time researching and testing ten commercial ice makers to identify the ones that meet the demands of different businesses. Our aim was to find machines that are reliable, efficient, and easy to maintain. In the following sections, we will present our findings and recommendations for the best commercial ice makers on the market.

Best Commercial Ice Makers

We know that finding the right commercial ice maker can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to determine which one is the best fit for your business. That's why we've done the research for you and compiled a list of the best commercial ice makers available. Our top picks are based on factors such as ice production capacity, ease of use, durability, and customer reviews. Whether you're looking for a countertop model or a larger unit, we've got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect ice maker for your business.

E EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient commercial ice maker, the E EUHOMY is a great option that can produce up to 99lbs of ice per day.

Pros

• The E EUHOMY ice maker is ETL certified for commercial use, making it a great option for restaurants, bars, hotels, and grocery stores.
• The smart LCD control panel allows for easy operation and customization, including adjusting the size of ice cubes and cleaning the machine.
• The powerful compressor ensures efficient ice making without causing too much noise, making it a great option for indoor and outdoor kitchens.

Cons

• The ice maker requires a water supply and drain for gravity drainage, which may not be feasible in all settings.
• The ice must be manually broken apart, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• The machine must be kept upright for at least 24 hours before use, which may require some planning ahead.

Overall, the E EUHOMY commercial ice maker is a great option for those in need of a reliable and efficient ice maker for commercial or household use. With its smart control panel and efficient compressor, you can enjoy high-quality ice without any hassle.

ZYZYZK Commercial Ice Maker

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient commercial ice maker, the ZYZYZK Commercial Ice Maker is a great option.

Pros

• This ice maker has a powerful ice making capacity, producing up to 48 pieces of ice in just 12-18 minutes and 100 pounds of ice in 24 hours.
• Made of durable stainless steel, this machine is sturdy and long-lasting.
• The standalone design makes it easy to install and move around, while the large storage capacity can hold up to 48 pounds of ice at one time.

Cons

• This ice maker is quite heavy, weighing almost 70 pounds, so it may be difficult to move around without assistance.
• While the machine is relatively quiet, it can still be heard in quieter environments like small offices or homes.
• The LCD control panel can be a bit confusing to navigate at first, so it may take some time to get used to.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the ZYZYZK Commercial Ice Maker for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient ice maker for their business or home. It's easy to install and use, and can produce a large amount of ice quickly.

In terms of its performance, we found that the ice maker worked exactly as advertised, producing ice quickly and efficiently. The durable stainless steel construction also made it feel like a high-quality product that would last for years to come.

One thing to keep in mind is that the machine is quite heavy, so it may be difficult to move around without assistance. Additionally, while the machine is relatively quiet, it can still be heard in quieter environments like small offices or homes.

Overall, we think that the ZYZYZK Commercial Ice Maker is a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient ice maker. It's easy to use, produces a large amount of ice quickly, and is built to last.

Joy Pebble Ice Maker

If you're looking for a reliable commercial ice maker, the Joy Pebble Ice Maker is a great option.

Pros

• Produces up to 100lbs of ice per day, making it ideal for large events or busy establishments.
• Two water intake modes - tap water or gallon bottled water - make it easy to set up and use.
• LED panel allows for easy operation, including self-cleaning, ice thickness adjustment, and a 24-hour timer.

Cons

• The ice cubes come out in a sheet and need to be broken apart, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• The water line does not secure very well when hooked up to the ice maker.
• Some users have reported issues with the machine breaking down after a few months of use.

In our experience, the Joy Pebble Ice Maker is powerful and efficient, producing a large amount of ice quickly and easily. The LED panel makes it simple to operate, and the two water intake modes provide flexibility in terms of setup. However, the ice cubes do come out in a sheet and need to be broken apart, which may be a nuisance for some users. Additionally, the water line can be difficult to secure properly, and some users have reported issues with the machine breaking down after a few months of use. Overall, we would recommend the Joy Pebble Ice Maker for those in need of a reliable commercial ice maker.

FREE VILLAGE Commercial Ice Maker

If you're looking for a reliable commercial ice maker, the FREE VILLAGE ice maker is a great option.

Pros

• The 48lbs ice storage and 200 lbs daily ice output make it perfect for high demand situations.
• The ice maker is efficient and flexible, with 105 clear hard cube-shaped ice cubes overall ready in 11-18 minutes per batch.
• The automatic cleaning function and transparent window make it easy to maintain and monitor.

Cons

• The machine is relatively large, measuring 21.9 x 17.1 x 31.7 inches and weighing 80.3 pounds.
• The ice cubes produced are relatively small, which may not be ideal for some uses.
• The machine can be a bit noisy during the ice-making process.

We recently used this ice maker for a large outdoor event and were impressed with its performance. The ice maker produced a large amount of ice quickly, and the transparent window made it easy to monitor the ice-making process. The automatic cleaning function was also a nice feature, as it made maintenance a breeze.

One thing to note is that the machine is relatively large and heavy, so it may not be the best option for smaller spaces or for those who need to move it frequently. Additionally, while the ice cubes produced are clear and hard, they are relatively small, which may not be ideal for some uses.

Overall, we would recommend the FREE VILLAGE commercial ice maker for those looking for a reliable and efficient option for high demand situations.

Hothope Commercial Ice Maker

If you're looking for a reliable commercial ice maker, the Hothope Commercial Ice Maker is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The powerful compressor allows for rapid ice making, producing up to 120lbs of ice in 24 hours.
• The operation panel is easy to use and features multiple functions, including self-cleaning, defrosting, and malfunction reminders.
• The heavy-duty stainless steel construction is durable and sanitary, and the foam layer provides better insulation to prevent ice melting.

Cons

• The initial setup requires the ice maker to be kept upright for 24 hours before first use.
• The ice cubes are not as clear as some other ice makers on the market.
• The machine is relatively noisy during operation.

We've been using the Hothope Commercial Ice Maker for several weeks now, and we're impressed with its performance. The machine is easy to operate, and the LCD display makes it simple to adjust the ice-making time and thickness of the ice cubes. We appreciate the large storage capacity, which allows us to make up to 350 drinks per day without running out of ice.

One of the standout features of this ice maker is the two water inlet modes, which allow you to use tap water or gallon bottled water. The premium water filter ensures that the ice cubes are crystal clear and hard, making them perfect for any commercial or household use.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Hothope Commercial Ice Maker to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient ice maker. Its durable construction, large storage capacity, and multiple functions make it a great value for the price.

YITAHOME Commercial Ice Machine

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient commercial ice maker, the YITAHOME Commercial Ice Machine is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With a capacity of producing over 400 lbs of ice every 24 hours and storing 250 lbs, this ice maker is perfect for various settings, including home, indoor/outdoor kitchens, restaurants, bars, hotels, and grocery stores.
• The smart LCD panel with many functions such as timing, reminders, and self-cleaning makes it easy to operate.
• The powerful compressor ensures efficient ice-making without causing excessive noise, and its energy certificate helps you save on electricity bills, making it an economical choice in the long run.

Cons

• The two boxes may arrive at different times during shipping, which may cause inconvenience.
• The ice maker is quite heavy and bulky, which may make it difficult to move around.
• It may take some time to get used to the different ice cube sizes and settings.

We've been using the YITAHOME Commercial Ice Machine for a few weeks now, and it has exceeded our expectations. The ice maker is very easy to operate, and the LCD panel displays all the necessary information, including the surrounding temperature for efficient ice making.

The ice maker produces ice very quickly, and the storage bin is large enough to hold plenty of ice, which is great for busy settings. We also appreciate the energy efficiency of the ice maker, which helps reduce our electricity bills.

Maintenance is also a breeze with the YITAHOME Commercial Ice Machine. The cleaning mode and automatic drainage function make it easy to keep the ice maker clean and hygienic, which is essential in a commercial setting.

Overall, we highly recommend the YITAHOME Commercial Ice Machine to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient ice maker for their business.

YITAHOME Upgraded Commercial Ice Machine

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient commercial ice maker, the YITAHOME Upgraded Commercial Ice Machine is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With the ability to produce up to 100lbs of ice in 24 hours and store up to 33lbs, you'll never run out of ice again.
• The upgraded compressor allows the ice machine to save up to 35% on electricity, providing you with a constant supply of the freshest ice at amazingly high efficiencies.
• The 20% thicker insulation layer effectively prevents ice cubes from melting, and the food-grade PP injection liner interior grants a safe and hygienic ice-making environment.

Cons

• The machine is quite large and heavy, so it may not be suitable for smaller spaces.
• Some users have reported that the ice cubes are not as clear as they would like.
• The price point may be a bit high for some budgets.

Overall, we highly recommend the YITAHOME Upgraded Commercial Ice Machine for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient ice maker. It's perfect for homes, restaurants, bars, hotels, and more. With its advanced intelligent experience and experienced support team, you can rest assured that you're making a wise investment.

Coolski Commercial Ice Maker Machine

If you're looking for a reliable commercial ice maker, the Coolski Commercial Ice Maker Machine is a great option.

Pros

• Large ice production capacity
• Durable and easy to clean stainless steel construction
• Easy-to-use LCD controller

Cons

• Requires an 110-115V electrical connection
• Takes up space in a kitchen
• May be expensive for some budgets

This ice maker is designed to produce up to 300 pounds of clear ice cubes per day, making it perfect for busy restaurants or bars. The food-grade bin can store up to 250 pounds of ice, so you'll always have plenty on hand.

The stainless steel exterior is durable and easy to clean, while the polyethylene foam layer effectively prevents ice from melting for up to 7 hours. The bright LED lights inside the ice maker provide a clear view of the ice cubes.

The intuitive LCD controller allows for quick and easy operation of the ice machine. You can observe the ice-making process, adjust the thickness of the ice cubes, make a reservation, and operate the automatic cleaning function. A built-in diagnostic system will identify any problems with the machine and display the issue on the digital controller.

This 22-inch wide modular commercial ice machine is ideal for kitchens where space is at a premium. Four cooling fans on the top of the unit provide rapid and efficient heat dissipation. The nickel-plated evaporator holds up well to moisture and is non-corrosive. Removable air filters allow for quick cleaning and replacement.

This unit requires an 110-115V electrical connection for operation. 100pcs ice bags, water filter, water hose, drain hose, two ice scoops, and tools are included. The manufacturer offers free replacement parts caused by quality and lifetime technical service for any question.

Overall, the Coolski Commercial Ice Maker Machine is a great investment for any food-service establishment.

LifePlus Commercial Ice Maker

If you're looking for a reliable commercial ice maker, the LifePlus under counter ice maker is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The ice maker is powerful and can produce up to 100LBS of ice in 24 hours, making it perfect for commercial use or large families.
• The 0.6 Cu.Ft. insulated ice bin can hold up to 29LBS of ice, and the thermal insulation foam layer and ice overflow protection can help save water and electricity.
• The ice thickness can be adjusted, and there are 2 water inlet modes available, making it easy to use and customize to your needs.

Cons

• The ice maker does not come with a drain pump, so you'll need to use a bucket to collect water or find another place to drain it.
• The ice maker can be noisy when it's running, which could be a concern if you plan to use it in a quiet environment.
• The ice bin is not refrigerated, so the ice can melt fairly quickly if it's not removed promptly.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the LifePlus commercial ice maker, and we were impressed with its performance. The ice maker is easy to operate, and the control panel is user-friendly, with clear indicator lights and an LED display that shows you how it's working.

The ice maker is also easy to install, and it only takes a few steps to get it up and running. We appreciated the self-cleaning function, which helps keep the ice maker clean and hygienic, and the blue light and 24-hour timer are nice touches that add to the overall functionality of the machine.

Overall, we would recommend the LifePlus commercial ice maker to anyone who needs a reliable and efficient ice maker for their business or home. It's powerful, easy to use, and has a range of features that make it a great choice for anyone who needs a lot of ice on a regular basis.

Holymus Commercial Ice Maker Machine

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient commercial ice maker, the Holymus Commercial Ice Maker Machine is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With a capacity of up to 550 lbs of ice per day, this machine can easily supply all the ice you need for your restaurant, cafe, bar, catering company, or hotel.
• The SECOP compressor used in this machine is known for its high efficiency, durability, low noise, and variable speed operation.
• Built with heavy-duty, high-quality brushed stainless steel, this ice maker is rust-proof, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.

Cons

• This machine is quite large and heavy, so you'll need to ensure you have enough space and the right equipment to install it.
• It's relatively expensive, so it may not be the best option for smaller businesses or those on a tight budget.
• The machine can be a bit noisy when it's producing ice, which could be an issue in quieter establishments.

We recently had the opportunity to try out the Holymus Commercial Ice Maker Machine, and we were impressed with its performance and features. The machine can produce up to 182 ice cubes in just 8-15 minutes, which is perfect for busy establishments that need a constant supply of ice.

The SECOP compressor used in this machine is one of the best in the industry, and it ensures that the machine operates efficiently and quietly. The air-cooled design is also a great feature, as it helps to reduce noise, energy consumption, and water consumption.

The machine is built with heavy-duty, high-quality brushed stainless steel, which not only looks great but is also rust-proof and durable. The ice storage bin is composed of food-grade PP injection liner and six-sided cyclopentane foam layer, which helps to keep the ice from melting for up to 7 hours.

The LCD intelligent panel is easy to use and allows you to set the machine to produce ice at specific times. The automatic cleaning feature is also a great addition, as it ensures that the machine stays clean and hygienic.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Holymus Commercial Ice Maker Machine to anyone who needs a reliable and efficient ice maker for their business. It may be a bit pricey, but the quality and features make it well worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a commercial ice maker, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Capacity

The first thing to consider is the capacity of the ice maker. You'll want to choose a machine that can produce enough ice to meet your needs without overworking the machine. Consider the size of your establishment and how much ice you'll need on a daily basis.

Type of Ice

Another important factor is the type of ice produced by the machine. Different types of ice are better suited for different applications. For example, nugget ice is great for blended drinks, while crescent ice is ideal for cooling beverages quickly. Consider the type of ice you'll need for your specific application.

Energy Efficiency

An energy-efficient ice maker can save you money on your utility bills over time. Look for a machine with an Energy Star rating, which indicates that it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Choose an ice maker that is easy to use and maintain. Look for machines with intuitive controls and easy-to-clean components. Some models even come with self-cleaning features, which can save you time and hassle.

Durability

Finally, consider the durability of the machine. Look for models made from high-quality materials that can withstand daily use. A durable machine will save you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs and replacements.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best commercial ice maker for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average lifespan of a commercial ice maker?

The average lifespan of a commercial ice maker is around 10 years. However, this can vary depending on the brand, model, and usage.

What are the maintenance requirements for a commercial ice maker?

Regular maintenance is important to keep your commercial ice maker running smoothly. This includes cleaning the machine, replacing filters, and checking for any leaks or damage. It is recommended to clean the ice maker at least once a month.

How much ice can a commercial ice maker produce per day?

The amount of ice a commercial ice maker can produce per day varies depending on the model and brand. Some machines can produce as little as 50 pounds of ice per day, while others can produce up to 2,000 pounds or more.

What are the best brands of commercial ice makers?

There are many reputable brands of commercial ice makers on the market, including Manitowoc, Hoshizaki, Scotsman, and Ice-O-Matic. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits, so it is important to research and compare before making a purchase.

What is the difference between an undercounter and outdoor commercial ice maker?

An undercounter commercial ice maker is designed to fit under a counter or bar, while an outdoor commercial ice maker is designed to withstand outdoor environments. Outdoor ice makers are typically made with weather-resistant materials and have a higher capacity than undercounter models.

How can I ensure my commercial ice maker is energy efficient?

To ensure your commercial ice maker is energy efficient, look for models with the ENERGY STAR certification. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning can help improve the efficiency of your machine.