For any commercial kitchen, ice plays a vital role, the same as any other food item on the menu and other restaurant supplies. Kitchen managers should treat it with the same attention to detail as the main course, entree, or dessert. 

Ice is a product offered to every customer who enters a restaurant, so the ice supply must be clean and fresh. Only with the best ice machine can you protect customer health, serve drinks refreshingly ice cold and ensure their satisfaction. 

If you are shopping for a new or replacement commercial ice maker, there are several things to consider. We'll help you find the best commercial ice machine brands that meet your needs, suits your budget, and produces high-quality ice cubes. 

Which are the Best Commercial Ice Makers?

Most commercial ice makers come in a range of shapes and sizes. Before looking at the features of a commercial ice maker model, let’s introduce some different types of ice makers and our top picks for the best commercial ice machines in our online store.

Undercounter Ice Machines

Undercounter commercial ice machines tend to be smaller. An undercounter ice machine is designed for establishments that require small quantities of ice, such as a cafe or small bar. 

A small ice machine for use under-counter is typically a combination of an ice maker and storage bin and can fit under typical-sized counters. 

Coldline ICE120 20" 120 lb. Undercounter Half Cube Air Cooled Ice Machine with Bin

This Coldline undercounter ice maker machine produces high volumes of fresh ice. Its low-profile fits under any countertop. The brand is known for its high customer satisfaction rating. The ICE120 is the perfect commercial undercounter ice maker for delis, bakeries, small restaurants, or cafes. 

The stainless steel ice machine is heavy-duty to withstand the toughest environments. Because it's an air-cooled model, you won't run up your water bill, plus you can install it almost anywhere. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 19.70 length x 23.3 depth x 29.9 height 

• Cooling system type: Air cooled 

• Ice yield per day: 120 pounds per day 

• Voltage: 115

Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ 15" 55 lb. Undercounter Air-Cooled Self-Contained Cuber with 22 lb. Built-In Storage Bin

Hoshizaki is synonymous with reliability, quality, and some of the best ice machines. This ice maker has fewer moving parts for longer life. It's less than 34 inches tall but can store up to 22 pounds of ice in its storage bin.

Accessing the power switch is quick and easy; no need to remove any panels. It's also easy to take apart for cleaning.

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 14.88 length x 22.63 depth x 33.5 height

• Cooling system type: Air-cooled condensers

• Ice yield per day: 51 pounds

• Voltage: 115

Hoshizaki F-330BAJ-C 24" 288 lb. Air-Cooled Self-Contained Cubelet Ice Machine with 80 lb. Built-In Storage Bin

This is another high-quality and reliable ice machine from Hoshizaki that can produce up to 288 pounds of ice in 24 hours. It also has a storage capacity of 80 pounds. Every hour there is a two-second flush cycle to help keep the ice maker equipment clean. 

It features a convenient drop-down door for easy access that opens when you want to remove the ice. Maintenance is also easy thanks to the front access and removable air filters. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 24 length x 26 depth x 39 height

• Cooling system type: Air cooling system

• Ice yield per day: 288 pounds

• Voltage: 115

Modular Ice-Making Machines With Bin

Designed to sit on the top of a soda dispenser or ice dispenser, these ice makers combine an ice machine and storage bin and fit under the average countertop. 

Coldline ICE500M-FA 30" 550 lb. Modular Full Cube Air Cooled Ice Machine with 320 lb. Bin

Modular ice machines are perfect for medium size establishments that require large quantities of ice. Larger establishments might purchase two of these, so there's twice the yield and a backup. 

This stainless steel modular ice maker includes numerous features, such as adjustable legs and easy-to-use controls for adjusting the ice thickness. It is durable and easy to clean. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 29.90 length x 32.7 depth x 67.6 height

• Cooling system type: Air

• Ice yield per day: 301 - 1000 pounds

• Voltage: 110

Ice-O-Matic CIM0520HA-B42PS 22" 561 lb. Half Cube Air Cooled Ice Machine with 351 lb. Storage Bin - Modular Self-Contained

Ice-O-Matic ice machines are easy to clean, service, operate, maintain, and energy efficient. 

Its automatic cleaning function lets you know when it's time to clean it, and you can sanitize and de-lime with one touch. It also uses unique dishwasher-safe plastic food zone parts that snap in and out for easy cleaning. The water supply pipes are easy to clean, need no bottle brushes, and are simple to remove and disassemble. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 22.25 length x 31 depth x 71.3 height

• Cooling system type: Air

• Ice yield per day: 561 pounds

• Voltage: 115

Nugget Ice Makers

A nugget-style ice maker uses an auger system and can create small cubes of ice from compacted ice flakes. The texture of the ice is porous and soft, making it easy to take on a drink's flavor. 

Coldline NU280 26" 280 lb. Commercial Air Cooled Nugget Ice Machine with 110 lb. Ice Bin

This high-volume under-counter ice machine from Coldline produces nugget-style ice that is perfect for a range of commercial applications, from coffee bars to busy restaurants. 

Its heavy-duty stainless steel construction and fully adjustable legs make it ideal for installation anywhere. The legs can also be removed to fit this model into tight spaces. Maintenance and cleaning are easy thanks to the nickel-plated evaporator, pop-out air filters, and auto-clean cycle.

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 25.60 length x 25.2 depth x 38 height

• Cooling system type: Air

• Ice yield per day: 101 - 300 pounds

• Voltage: 115

Coldline NU550 22" 550 lb. Nugget Ice Machine with 400 lb. Ice Bin

The Coldline NU550 ice machine can produce up to 550 pounds of ice per day and store 400 pounds in its large ice storage bin. However, it's only 22 inches wide, so it can fit into the smallest spaces. 

It's a perfect modular ice machine for medium-sized establishments, whether a smoothie bar, coffee shop, or restaurant. 

The air filter is removable, the evaporator nickel-plated, and features a self-cleaning cycle for easy cleaning. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 22 length x 29.5 depth x 74.8 height

• Cooling system type: Air

• Ice yield per day: 550 pounds

• Voltage: 115

Flake Ice Makers

Flake ice is flat and thin and forms on a drum in the ice machine. A thin film of water is poured over the drum, and it then freezes immediately into a thin sheet of ice. 

Hoshizaki F-450MAJ 22" 492 lb. Slim-Line Series Air-Cooled Modular Flaker Ice Machine

This modular stainless steel flake ice machine can produce up to 492 pounds of ice in one day. Its self-cleaning feature has a two-second flush cycle that runs every hour to remove sediment and ensure cleaner ice. 

Ice levels in the bin are controlled by infrared for reliability and easy cleaning. This particular model is not recommended for dispensing applications. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 22 length x 27.38 depth x 22 height

• Air cooling system

• Ice yield per day: 301 - 1000 pounds

• Voltage: 115

Hoshizaki F-1501MWJ 30" 1624 lb. Slim-Line Series Water-Cooled Modular Flaker Ice Machine

This modular flake ice machine from Hoshizaki can also produce crystal-clear ice cubes. The flaker can produce up to 1705 pounds of ice flakes per 24 hours and up to 1376 pounds of ice cubes. 

The two-second flushing feature ensures cleaner ice as it removes any sediment from the machine. Its infrared ice storage bin control guarantees reliability and easy cleaning. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 30 length x 27.38 depth x 34.44 height

• Cooling system type: Water

• Ice yield per day: More than 1,000 pounds

• Voltage: 208 - 230

Full Cube Ice Makers

A full-cube ice machine is better for producing ice used in mixed drinks, soft drinks, and dispensing bagged ice. Ideal for bars and restaurants that serve soft drinks or stores selling bagged ice. 

Coldline ICE500M-FA 30" 550 lb. Modular Full Cube Air Cooled Ice Machine with 320 lb. Bin

Modular ice machines like the Coldline ICE500M-FA 30" are ideal for medium-sized establishments such as juice bars or restaurants. Larger establishments commonly purchase two for double the capacity or to have one under the counter and the other back-of-house. 

It's super easy to use thanks to its adjustable legs that can be removed. Ice thickness is also easily controlled, and its stainless steel construction is durable and easy to clean.

Maintenance and cleaning features include a removable air filter, nickel-plated evaporator, and self-cleaning cycle.

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 29.90 length x 32.7 depth x 67.6 height

• Cooling system type: Air cooled

• Ice yield per day: 301 - 1000 pounds of ice cubes

• Voltage: 110

Ice-O-Matic CIM0430FW 30" 460 lb. Full Cube Water Cooled Ice Machine - Modular Self-Contained

The Elevation series of ice machines from Ice-O-Matic is easy to clean, service, and operate. They are also environmentally responsible without sacrificing productivity. 

Automatic cleaning and de-liming can be done with just one touch. And there is an LED feature to indicate when it's time to clean the machine. 

The ice zone uses unique food-grade plastic parts that snap in and out and are dishwasher-safe. The water supply system is equally easy to clean. It requires no bottle brushes, is easy to remove and disassemble, and is dishwasher safe. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 30.25 length x 24.25 depth x 21.3 height

• Cooling system type: Remote, water, or air-cooled units

• Ice yield per day: 301 - 1000 pounds of ice cubes

• Voltage:115

Ice and Water Dispensers

This type of ice-making equipment dispenses water and ice cubes together. These water and ice dispensers are compact and ideal for healthcare facilities, break rooms, cafeterias, and offices. 

Air Cooled - Coldline ICE400-BD 22" 400 lb. Ice Dispensing Ice Machine with Bin for Hotels

This modular ice machine comes at an affordable price, perfect for restaurants and hotels that require large quantities of ice. The insulated ice bin has a self-service function and can store 150 pounds of ice. 

The unit is only 22 inches wide, so it can fit into the tightest of spaces and features adjustable legs and easy-to-adjust ice thickness control.

It is manufactured from stainless steel for durability, with a nickel-plated evaporator, self-cleaning cycle, and removable air filter for easy cleaning. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 22 length x 33.7 depth x 75.7 height

• Cooling system type: Air cooled

• Ice yield per day: 301 - 1000 pounds of ice cubes

• Voltage: 115

Air Cooled - Hoshizaki DCM-500BAH-OS 26" 618 lb. Opti-Serve Series Air-Cooled Sanitary Cubelet Ice Machine/Water Dispenser with 40 lb. Storage

This Hoshizaki unit dispenses water and ice with ease. The cubelet ice is easy to chew, and its self-contained design removes the risk of cross-contamination. 

The corrosion-resistant stainless steel exterior of the machine is easy to clean and attractive. For further protection, it also uses H-GUARD Plus Antimicrobial Agent. Another desirable feature is the two-second flush cycle that repeats every hour.

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 26 length x 22.5 depth x 40 height

• Cooling system type: Air cooled

• Ice yield per day: 301 - 1000 pounds of ice cubes

• Voltage: 115

Water Cooled - Hoshizaki DCM-500BWH-OS 26" 590 lb. Opti-Serve Series Water-Cooled Sanitary Cubelet Ice Machine/Water Dispenser with 40 lb. Storage

This water-cooled unit from Hoshizaki can produce up to 618 pounds of ice every day and has a storage capacity of up to 40 pounds. The unit has an hourly flushing cycle that takes just two seconds to keep scaling to a minimum. 

This commercial ice machine produces cubelet ice that's easy to chew. Its self-contained design reduces the risk of cross-contamination. In addition, it's protected by H-GUARD Plus Antimicrobial Agent. 

• Ice maker dimensions (inches): 26 length x 22.5 depth x 40 height

• Cooling system type: Water cooled

• Ice yield per day: 301 - 1000 pounds of ice cubes

• Voltage: 115

Ice Machine Bins

An ice machine bin is where the ice-making machine drops and stores the ice. Ice storage bins typically include a shut-off switch that measures the ice level inside and prevents overflowing and freezing up. The machine shuts down when the ice level reaches the maximum bin capacity. 

Coldline B375 30" 375 lb. Ice Storage Bin - BIN ONLY

This stainless steel ice storage bin from Coldline is durable, low maintenance, and easy to clean. It is corrosion-resistant and efficient at keeping ice cold, thanks to its polyurethane insulation. 

This freestanding unit contains a rear drain hole, and the door is spring-loaded for easy access to ice. Accessories include a water hose and ice scoop. 

• Ice maker bin dimensions (inches): 29.90 length x 32.7 depth x 45.2 height

• Exterior material: Stainless steel

• Interior material: Polyethylene

• Insulation material: Foamed-in-Place Polyurethane

• Storage capacity: 375 pounds of ice cubes

Hoshizaki B-1300SS 48" 1304 lb. Stainless Steel Ice Storage Bin with Hinged Bottom Door & Top View Windows

This large ice storage bin from Hoshizaki has a massive storage capacity of up to 1605 pounds. The stainless steel exterior is easy to clean and attractive. 

The bin is very efficient at keeping the ice cold thanks to the foamed-in-place polyurethane insulation on the walls and bottom. 

The freestanding unit also boasts a new baffle design which increases the accessibility of the ice by 30%. In addition, there are windows for instant inspection, without opening the bin lid and affecting the temperature inside, causing ice melt. 

Another helpful feature is the pouch-style insulated door which prevents condensation without compromising access and minimizes spillage.

• Ice maker bin dimensions (inches): 48 length x 41 depth x 66.13 height

• Exterior material: Stainless steel

• Interior material: Polyethylene

• Insulation material: Foamed-in-Place Polyurethane

• Storage capacity: 1605 pounds of ice cubes

What to Consider Before Investing In a Commercial Freezer

Are you looking to purchase the best commercial ice maker for your establishment? Here are some features you need to consider before making your decision. 

Speed of Ice Production

One of the first features to consider is how quickly a commercial ice maker can produce ice. In the specifications above, we've included information on how much ice a machine can generate in one day.

When checking the specifications of different commercial ice machines, note the daily ice production capacity, which is typically given in pounds. You might also see the production rate specified as how much ice is produced per cycle and how long each cycle takes. 

You can use this ice production information to determine whether a specific model of commercial ice maker machine will meet your needs.

Type of Ice Maker

There are three basic types of ice-making machines:

• Countertop: These portable ice maker machines are small, around the size of a bread machine. The ice maker machine sits on top of a counter or can be taken outdoors or in an RV. They don't need a drain or waterline but require access to a grounded electrical outlet. This type of ice machine can make between 24 and 40 pounds of ice per day. 

• Under-counter: These ice machines are bigger than countertop models, around the same size as a mini-fridge. They are designed to sit under a countertop and produce a decent volume of ice per day. Ice storage capacity is typically greater than in countertop models. You may or may not need a water line. 

• Commercial ice makers: These are much bigger than countertop or undercounter models. A commercial ice maker machine is designed for restaurants and can produce large quantities of ice per day (cubes/flakes/crushed ice) and store them. 

Types of Ice

Ice comes in many shapes and sizes, and understanding the differences means you'll be able to choose the best ice machine for your needs. Different types of ice have distinct characteristics and are used for specific purposes. 

Cube Ice

• This is the most common type of ice cube for commercial businesses.

• These ice cubes melt slower than other types of ice, so they won't dilute drinks quickly.

• Perfect crunchy ice cubes for liquors or high-end cocktails

Nugget ice

• Commonly used in healthcare facilities.

• Melts slowly and is softer and easier to chew.

• Nugget ice displaces more liquid in a glass, so less syrup is required per serving.

Flake Ice

• Typically used in displays of seafood, chilled meats, or salads.

• This type of ice consists of small, soft flakes that cool food quickly and can be molded to any shape.

• Perfect choice for a market, buffet, or grocery store.

Crescent ice Cubes

• Slow melting

• Hard, with a unique crescent shape

• Maintains the taste of cocktails, high-end liquors, and soft drinks

Maintenance & Upkeep

Ice machines designed to be built into fixtures tend to be more challenging to maintain than freestanding units. If you want an ice maker machine that is easy to keep clean, look for a model with an auto-clean function. 

Keeping your ice maker machine clean is essential. A regular cleaning schedule will help avoid costly repair issues, keep your ice maker in tip-top shape, and ensure its longevity. You should also regularly clean the ice machine head and filters. 

Size

The size of the commercial ice machine should match your needs. Many of the best commercial ice maker models available are designed to be built into cabinets or walls, much the same as a commercial oven.

Something else to consider is that commercial ice makers need a power source and water supply. 

Air-cooled commercial ice maker models also require adequate space around them so that the condenser can cool efficiently. 

How Does the Ice Maker Drain?

Ice makers can have anything from one to four drains. The drains are essential to remove the water expelled during the ice-making process. Ice machines often produce vast amounts of wastewater, so a floor drain is best.

The commercial ice maker drain must be built into the floor so that wastewater flows directly down the drain and into the sewer. However, there should be an air gap of around two inches in case the sewer backs up. 

Energy Consumption (efficiency)

Energy consumption is something else important to consider. Ideally, you want your commercial ice machine to be as efficient as possible. 

You can calculate the energy efficiency of a commercial ice machine by finding how many watts the unit uses. Then convert it to kilowatts by dividing it by 1,000. Next, you need to determine how much you pay per kilowatt hour, which you'll find on your electricity bill. 

To calculate the cost of energy used, take how many hours your commercial ice machine runs per day and multiply it by the kilowatt-hour number of the ice machine. Finally, multiply this figure by the cost per kilowatt hour shown on your bill to see how much energy the commercial ice maker uses. 

If you want an energy-efficient commercial ice machine, look for one that is Energy Star certified. These are more energy-efficient by 10% and water-efficient by 20%, compared to regular models. 

Condenser

A key component of all ice machines is the condenser. This component removes any excess heat and allows the commercial ice maker machine to continue freezing ice as efficiently as possible. There are three basic types of condensers. 

Air-Cooled condensers

This is the most popular type of condenser. Air-cooled condensers have fans that blow air across the condensers to cool the equipment. 

This type of commercial ice maker is easy to install and requires simple maintenance. However, one factor to consider is that air-cooled machines have clearance requirements. The machine must be installed with adequate space between it and any surrounding objects to allow airflow and keep the condenser running smoothly.

For most commercial ice maker applications, air cooling is the best choice. However, one exception to the rule is if you want to install the machine in a room where ambient temperatures exceed 80 degrees regularly. High ambient temperatures reduce the amount of ice a machine will produce. Regular exposure to high temperatures can also lead to the failure of a freestanding commercial ice maker machine.

Water Cooled

Water-cooled ice machines use a condenser cooled by water rather than air to achieve cooling. Water-cooled machines require a constant supply of cooling water in addition to the potable water supply for making the ice. Because of this requirement, this type of commercial ice maker may be unfeasible for some establishments.

Remote Cooled

Remote condensers are a popular alternative to air cooled. The remote condenser is installed in a separate location. The ice maker pipes refrigerant to the remote condenser. It is cooled and piped back into the machine. Advantages of this type of condenser include:

• No extra burden on HVAC systems inside the establishment

• Minimizes noise levels

However, remote condensers are typically preferred where several larger commercial ice machines and refrigerated units are used. They come with a much higher price tag, although it may be offset by energy savings and increased ice production.

Clean Water and Filtration

Regardless of the type of ice maker you choose, it will likely require a connection to a water filtration system. The filter will do several things, for example:

• Reduce the concentration of dissolved minerals entering the ice machine

• Supply purer water that freezes quicker and creates clearer, harder ice

• Remove the taste of chlorine from the water

Accessories

You should look for a commercial ice machine that comes with plenty of accessories, such as:

• Ice scoop: This is a common accessory and often the most important. Using an ice scoop is essential if you want to comply with health codes. It's against the rules to scoop ice directly from an ice maker storage bin. 

• Ice scoop caddy: This is a sanitary way to store your ice scoops in the ice bin. It's against health code rules to store the scoop on top of the machine or in the ice maker. The caddy prevents germs from contaminating the ice. 

• Bin bottle rack: Bottles also can't be stored directly in the ice maker. A bin bottle rack is mounted on the inside wall of the ice bin and separates the bottles from the ice but keeps them cool. 

• Bar ice bin: An ice bin can hold several kilograms of ice. Often, it will use cold plate technology to keep the ice chilled. 

• Ice tote: If you need to transport quantities of ice from the ice maker to another location, an ice tote will be an indispensable accessory. 

• Ice caddy: Caddies are perfect for transporting a large amount of ice, often as much as 90 kilos. It is a mobile, wheeled bin that you can use for off-site events, large satellite bins, or outdoor bars. 

• Ice bin drain pump: If you can't drain water into a floor drain nearby, a drain pump can remove the wastewater from the ice maker storage bin to a suitable drain. 

• Ice bin legs: Adjustable ice maker legs will allow you to position the unit so water can flow through the machine. It also means you can ensure the unit is level, which is essential if you're purchasing a flake or nuggets machine. 

Conclusion

When it comes to buying a commercial ice-making machine, there are a few key factors that you'll need to consider in order to find the best option for your business. First, you'll need to think about the production capacity that you'll need in order to meet your customers' demands. Next, you'll need to take into account the size and layout of your space to make sure that the ice-making machine will fit comfortably. Additionally, you'll want to consider the features that are important to you, such as automatic shut-off or self-cleaning. Finally, be sure to compare prices between different brands and models in order to get the best value for your money. By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can be sure that you'll find the perfect commercial ice-making machine for your business.

If you are in the market for an ice maker, consider one of our featured top picks. Whether you think a countertop or undercounter ice machine will be most suitable, they have been rigorously tested and come with various features to suit your needs. With so many options available, you are sure to find the best commercial ice machine for your food business.