When it comes to under counter residential ice makers, there are many options to choose from. Three of the best options for residential use are outlined below.
U-Line
U-Line has a newer line up of clear ice machines that are not only cost effective, but are reliable units. U-Line boasts the clear ice technology that is popular for many reasons. Clear ice makers remove impurities and air bubbles from the water leaving ice that takes longer to melt, thus not changing the flavor of your drink. Uline offers many varieties of clear ice makers, and Don’s Appliances has them listed on our site here.
One of those machines includes the 1000 Series 15” Clear Ice Machine. This ice machine comes in four colors: black, integrated solid, stainless steel, and white. This is a very sleek unit and has a lot of color options to choose from. The units are offered with a gravity drain or a pump. The gravity drain works by using a pipe to drain. The pump (p60) is a much more efficient way to move the water. The ice maker has less of a chance to clog and a much lower repair rate when the pump is installed in the unit. The U-Line will make approximately sixty pounds of ice in a twenty four hour period, and will store about thirty pounds of ice in the unit. The controls on the unit are state of the art touch glass digital control for ease of use. A clean indicator light lets you know when the ice maker needs to run a clean cycle. This is a 45 minute self- cleaning cycle that helps the machine run more efficiently with a longer life span. The U-Line is a great under counter unit, with a great price point to match.
Scotsman
The Scotsman ice machine has been a customer favorite since 1981. Known as the original nugget ice maker, Scotsman has perfected the art of this style of ice production. Nugget ice, or more commonly known as sonic ice, is a soft compacted ice that is ideal for many different types of mixed drinks or smoothies. This ice style will cool the drinks faster too! The nugget ice is commonly known as chewy ice. This is a good type of ice for consumers who enjoy chewing the ice that is left in the glass. The Brilliance Nugget Ice Machine (scn60) is a great choice making up to eighty pounds of ice within a twenty four hour period. The Scotsman is the quietest ice machine available due to the stainless interior that holds the ice. One additional great reason to purchase this unit is the two year warranty that comes with it. That warranty is one of the industry leaders for under counter units.
True
The True Ice Machine is newer to the True line up, with many of the same benefits as the other under counter models. These units (TUI-15) have an entry level price point of $3499. But what sets this model apart from the others is the three year full warranty and the six year parts and labor warranty on the sealed system. The stainless exterior is high grade 300 series stainless steel. This finish will not rust off or dull over time. There is a zero clearance hinging that allows for a seamless integrated installation. It also comes in overlay panel. The patented True Lumina lighting allows the consumer to choose from fourteen different color options with the push of a button. The True Precision Control gives the consumer a readout on the ice cycle. This unit has an integral scoop holder for the ice to ensure it is never lost or buried. True is the only unit that comes with the drain pump already installed. With a built in water filter, this unit can filter up to 1,250 gallons of water before needing replaced. The interior of the unit will produce up to 70 pounds of clear ice per day. The cavity of the unit will hold 28 pounds of produced clear ice. This high performing, energy efficient ice machine is also rated for outdoors. True is a versatile unit boasting lots of great benefits.
When choosing an under counter ice maker, there are a lot of factors to consider. Not only does price come in to play, but the longevity and warranty of the unit matters too. The three ice machines mentioned above are all well performing units with good track records.