Undercounter ice machine are versatile beasts, coming in a variety of sizes, finishes and capacities to fit a wide range of commercial and residential needs. These Dachshunds of the refrigeration world are specifically designed to fit beneath counters or in areas where floor space or height restrictions prohibit use of larger equipment. They produce ice fast, usually within minutes, are small enough to enable faster and more efficient cleaning and in this environmentally-conscious age have a smaller energy footprint. No wonder coffee shops, juice stands, break areas, stadium boxes and many more prefer them!

They vary in height from 28 inches to 46 inches - they could squeeze in like a hobbit, if required! They also come in varying capacities - from a couple of dozen pounds per day to a couple of hundred pounds! Cube, flake, nugget and even crushed ice making models are available to fit your specific need though cube ice is the most preferred for beverages. Many undercounter ice makers models also combine an ice maker and ice storage bin into one unit to offer a convenient ice delivery system. Finishes can range from matching the color of your kitchen cabinet to luxury finishes that can enhance decor aesthetics!

Undercounter ice makers are designed with front ventilation to allow them to be built in or between cabinetry. They require a permanent water line and some of them also need a drain line. Make sure you get a professional plumber to install one. These can store much more ice than a portable model and can keep it frozen longer.

The vast majority of consumer oriented built-in ice makers do not offer a refrigerated storage bin. At some point the ice produced will melt and the resulting water may need to be drained from the machine. The most common way to achieve this goal is to establish a permanent gravity drain line. The gravity drain line will exit the back of the machine and carry the water to a nearby drain located below the ice maker. If your drain location is not below the machine, or is located several feet away, you may need to purchase an additional condensate pump to transport the drainage. Some ice makers will offer a built in condensate pump if you prefer to have the pump included within the body of the unit. If you do not have access to a drain and are unable to establish a permanent drain line for your ice maker you may need to manually drain the water from the machine periodically.

Parties and celebrations require ice and undercounter ice machines are the key to keep the entertainment flowing smoothly.