How to Select the Right Undercounter Ice Maker for Your Specific Needs

You can also consider adding an undercounter ice maker to your home bar so you can always have ice at hand to make chilled cocktails or add ice to your favorite sodas. Here are some questions to ask yourself as you shop for undercounter ice makers.

Undercounter ice makers generally make around 50 pounds of ice per day and store 25 pounds. For hygienic reasons, you do not want to allow large amounts of ice to sit unused for long periods of time. An ice maker storing 25 pounds is perfect for busy households that have a constant need for ice. If you are in a single person household and do not entertain often, you may find that 25 pounds of ice is too much.

Ice makers make a variety of differently shaped ice, but in general, each ice maker can only make one specific shape in a variety of sizes. The most common shapes include crescent, cubed, and top hat ice. The color of the ice will either be white or clear.

Ice makers have either a drain pump or a gravity drain. Models with a gravity drain must drain into a drain installed in the floor. A drain pump is connected to a sink drain.

As with any appliance, routine cleaning is necessary to ensure your ice machine is operating properly and producing ice that is suitable for consumption. This may involve unplugging the ice maker and cleaning each component individually. For example, cleaning the ice storage bin with warm water and soap.

If you do not already have a designated space in your cabinetry for your ice maker, you may need to hire a contractor to build one for you. Undercounter ice makers also have clearance requirements to ensure they run efficiently and can exhaust properly.

Undercounter ice makers are available in a variety of colors and styles, but the most popular is stainless steel. You may also select from curved or pole handles. Select ice machines also have a reversible door swing which allows you to install an ice maker next to another appliance such as a beverage cooler.

Undercounter ice machines range in price from $1,300 - $2,300 plus the cost of shipping. You should also include in your budget the cost of shipping and installation.

Consider the warranty that will come with your new ice maker. This will give you a good idea about how long the unit will last and ease your mind about any future repair costs.

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