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10 Best Home Ice Machine 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotsman Commercial Nugget ice Maker, Ice and Water Dispenser with Storage (HID312A-1) 260 pounds per Day

The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker (HID312A-1) is a high-output machine, capable of producing up to 260 pounds of nugget ice per day. This makes it ideal for households with high ice demands or for small commercial settings.

Its air-cooled system is designed to be energy efficient, which is a significant advantage over less efficient models. The nugget ice type is popular for its chewable texture, making it a favorite for beverages and cooling purposes. Additionally, it offers a touch-free infrared dispensing system, minimizing physical interaction and potentially reducing maintenance over time.

The sealed, maintenance-free bearings and removable dust cover further ease the cleaning and upkeep process, ensuring the machine runs smoothly with less frequent service calls. The large dispensing area and USB port for software updates add to its ease of use and adaptability.

#2

Hoshizaki KM-350MAJ 22-Inch Air-Cooled Modular Crescent Ice Machine Maker, 489 lbs/Day, Stainless Steel, 115v, NSF

Rating
9.1
Ice Production Capacity

Most important from
5 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
Produces more ice than needed, making it ideal for high-demand situations.

The Hoshizaki KM-350MAJ is a robust home ice machine that can produce up to 489 pounds of ice per day, which is quite impressive and suitable for large households or small businesses. Its ability to mount two units side-by-side for double the ice production is a notable advantage for those needing a high volume of ice regularly.

The machine produces crescent-shaped ice cubes, which are slow-melting and great for beverages. The durable stainless steel exterior ensures longevity and easy cleaning, adding to its reliability and low maintenance needs. However, this unit does not come with a built-in ice storage bin, which means you’ll need to purchase one separately if storage is a concern.

While the dimensions are compact for its capacity, it’s still a fairly large appliance and may require a dedicated space for installation. This machine is best suited for users who need a large quantity of ice and have the space to accommodate it, such as busy households, small businesses, or event organizers.

Rating
9.1
Ice Production Capacity

Most important from
5 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
Produces more ice than needed, making it ideal for high-demand situations.
#3

Hoshizaki DCM-271BAH-OS, Cubelet Ice and Water Dispenser, Air-Cooled, Hands Free Dispenser, Built in Storage Bin

The Hoshizaki DCM-271BAH-OS is a robust home ice machine that produces up to 257 pounds of ice per day, making it ideal for households or small events where large quantities of ice are needed. The built-in storage bin adds convenience, ensuring you have a steady supply of ice available. It produces cubelet ice, which is popular for its chewable texture and rapid cooling properties.

The hands-free dispenser is a standout feature, promoting hygiene and ease of use, especially in busy environments or shared spaces. Measuring 24.25 inches in depth, 16.06 inches in width, and 31.75 inches in height, this machine is relatively compact but does require a dedicated space for installation. The air-cooled system is efficient but may need good ventilation to operate optimally. With a wattage of 6.9 kWh, it is reasonably energy-efficient, though it's essential to consider the impact on your electricity bill if used frequently.

The stainless steel construction ensures durability and a sleek appearance, fitting well into modern kitchens. However, at 154 pounds, it is quite heavy and may be challenging to move. Cleaning and maintenance are simplified with the hands-free feature, but regular upkeep is necessary to maintain performance and hygiene. This model is well-suited for those who need a high-capacity ice machine with easy dispensing and reliability, though the weight and installation requirements might be a drawback for some users.

Buying Guide for the Best Home Ice Machine

Choosing the right home ice machine can greatly enhance your kitchen experience, especially if you love hosting parties or simply enjoy having a steady supply of ice on hand. When selecting an ice machine, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get a model that fits your needs and lifestyle. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.
Ice Production CapacityIce production capacity refers to the amount of ice a machine can produce in a 24-hour period. This is important because it determines how much ice you will have available for use. If you frequently host large gatherings, you might need a machine with a higher production capacity, typically around 50 pounds or more per day. For smaller households or occasional use, a machine with a capacity of 20-30 pounds per day should suffice. Consider your typical ice usage to choose the right capacity for you.
Ice Storage CapacityIce storage capacity is the amount of ice the machine can hold at one time. This is crucial because it affects how much ice you have ready to use at any given moment. Machines with larger storage capacities (around 20 pounds or more) are ideal for those who need a constant supply of ice, while smaller storage capacities (around 5-10 pounds) are suitable for occasional use. Think about how often you need ice and how much you typically use to determine the appropriate storage capacity.
Ice TypeIce type refers to the shape and texture of the ice produced by the machine. Common types include cubed, nugget, and crushed ice. Cubed ice is versatile and melts slowly, making it great for drinks. Nugget ice is softer and chewable, preferred for cocktails and soft drinks. Crushed ice is ideal for blended drinks and cooling food quickly. Consider your preferences and typical uses for ice to choose the type that best suits your needs.
Size and InstallationThe size and installation requirements of an ice machine are important to ensure it fits in your kitchen or designated space. Countertop models are compact and easy to move, suitable for smaller kitchens or occasional use. Under-counter models are larger and require a dedicated space, ideal for those who need a constant supply of ice. Measure your available space and consider how you plan to use the machine to choose the right size and installation type.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how much electricity the ice machine uses to produce ice. This is important for both environmental and cost reasons. Energy-efficient models consume less power, which can save you money on your electricity bill and reduce your carbon footprint. Look for machines with an Energy Star rating or other energy-saving features. If you use a lot of ice, investing in an energy-efficient model can be beneficial in the long run.
Ease of Cleaning and MaintenanceEase of cleaning and maintenance is crucial for ensuring your ice machine remains hygienic and functions properly. Machines with self-cleaning features or easy-to-remove parts can save you time and effort. Regular maintenance, such as descaling and sanitizing, is necessary to prevent mold and bacteria buildup. Consider how much time you are willing to spend on maintenance and choose a machine that fits your cleaning preferences.

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