Our readers keep the lights on and my morning glass full of iced black tea. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.11 Best 18 Inch Undercounter Ice Machine | 120 Lbs/Day or Bust

An undercounter ice machine that produces 18 inches of cube capacity is the difference between hosting without a second thought and running to the store for a bag of gas-station ice mid-party. For high-volume home bars, small commercial cafes, and busy kitchens, a capable unit that hard-plumbs directly into your water line removes the single biggest headache of portable countertop models: constant refilling. These machines trade a few inches of cabinet space for a continuous, automatic supply of clear, solid ice that stays frozen longer and fits on top of a standard dedicated beverage fridge or workspace.

I’m Mohammad — the founder and writer behind ProteinJug. My research for this guide involved cross-referencing hundreds of verified owner experiences against compressor type, insulation density, daily yield claims, and real-world installation setups for units that fit the standard 18-inch wide undercounter slot, separating marketing language from measurable performance data.

Whether you are outfitting a bespoke kitchen island, a dedicated wet bar, or a small restaurant prep station, the best choice in the 18 inch undercounter ice machine category depends on daily ice volume needs, drain type, and what shape of cube you actually want in your glass.

How To Choose The Best 18 Inch Undercounter Ice Machine

Every 18-inch undercounter ice maker balances three variables: daily ice production capacity, storage bin size, and the specific drainage method your install location requires. Choosing correctly means aligning these specs with your actual usage pattern and physical setup. Prioritize the following criteria before you purchase anything.

Drain Type: Gravity vs. Pump vs. Drainless

Gravity drain systems rely on the drain hose being lower than the machine’s outlet, which works fine when the unit sits above a basement floor drain or crawlspace. If you are installing in a finished basement, on a concrete slab, or anywhere the drain sits at or above the machine, you need a model with an internal drain pump that pushes water upward. Drainless models, which recirculate meltwater and evaporate excess, require no drain line at all but typically produce less ice per day and must be cleaned more frequently to prevent bacterial buildup.

Daily Yield vs. Storage Bin Size

A unit claiming 100 lbs of daily production is useless if the storage bin only holds 24 lbs unless you plan to transfer ice to a separate freezer. For continuous use — a busy bar or large family — look for a 30 to 35 lb bin paired with a production rate above 90 lbs per day. If you need ice primarily for peak periods (weekend parties, catering events), prioritize a larger storage bin over raw daily speed.

Ice Shape and Its Practical Impact

Crescent and full-cube ice melts slower and dilutes drinks less, making it the standard for whiskey, cocktails, and upscale service. Nugget ice, also called chewable or Sonic ice, is softer and absorbs flavor quickly but melts faster in the glass. If you or your guests prefer crunching ice, look for a dedicated nugget machine — they operate differently and cannot be swapped for cube production.

Quick Comparison

On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.

Model Category Best For Key Spec Amazon
Mojgar HBZB-36F Mid-Range High volume, commercial prep 100 Lbs/Day, 35 Lbs Bin Amazon
TUATNUT 15″ 90 Lbs Mid-Range Residential install, gravity drain 90 Lbs/Day, 3-Year Warranty Amazon
Gilati Y40FA Mid-Range Peak hour commercial demand 120 Lbs/Day, 30 Lbs Bin Amazon
ICYGLEE with Drain Pump Mid-Range Basement installs, pump needed 100 Lbs/Day, Built-in Pump Amazon
RAPSUAR 95 Lbs Premium Large bin, nugget ice option 95 Lbs/Day, 35 Lbs Bin Amazon
COTLIN Drainless Premium No-drain install, quiet operation 42 Lbs/Day, Crescent Ice Amazon
EUHOMY Nugget Premium Chewable nugget ice lovers 70 Lbs/Day, Double Basket Amazon
Electactic Nugget Premium Compact nugget, built-in fit 66 Lbs/Day, 12H Keep-Fresh Amazon
SOZT SDZ45B Budget Entry-level, 15″ wide space 130 Lbs/Day, 35 Lbs Bin Amazon
EUHOMY CIM002-80S Budget Compact 24 Lbs storage 85 Lbs/Day, 3-Layer Insulation Amazon
FOHERE ZB300 Budget Ultra-high volume commercial 500 Lbs/Day, 350 Lbs Bin Amazon

In‑Depth Reviews

Best Overall

1. Mojgar HBZB-36F

100 Lbs/DayReversible Door

The Mojgar HBZB-36F delivers 100 lbs of ice per day with a 35 lb storage bin, making it one of the highest daily yields in the mid-range bracket. The 15-inch wide chassis fits the standard undercounter opening, and the reversible door provides installation flexibility for left or right hinge setups. Owners consistently praise the fast cycle time — approximately 40 cubes per cycle in under 12 minutes — and the R290 compressor runs efficiently during continuous use.

The stainless steel exterior and ABS interior liner with multi-layer insulation slow ice melt noticeably during busy service. The digital touch panel allows ice thickness adjustment and timer scheduling, which is useful for pre-loading ice before a shift. The gravity drain system works well when the outlet is lower than the machine, but some users noted the unit does not include a built-in pump for elevated drain locations.

With a 2-year manufacturer warranty and straightforward installation via standard water line hookup, the Mojgar hits the sweet spot for homes and small commercial spaces that need high volume without jumping to premium pricing. The self-cleaning cycle and removable ice basket reduce the hassle of monthly maintenance, though the included manual could be clearer for first-time undercounter owners.

Why it’s great

  • 100 lbs daily production keeps up with peak demand
  • 35 lb storage bin is generous for its width class
  • 2-year warranty adds confidence for commercial use

Good to know

  • Gravity drain only — requires lower drain outlet
  • No drain pump included for basement installs
Best Value

2. TUATNUT 15″ 90 Lbs/Day

3-Year WarrantyGravity Drain

The TUATNUT 90 lb/day machine includes a 35 lb bin and triple-layer cyclopentane foam insulation that keeps ice frozen up to 12 hours, a spec that matters when the bin sits unused overnight. The 15-inch width and reversible door fit standard cabinetry, and the gravity drainage system with automatic water replenishment simplifies the initial setup for anyone comfortable with a basic water line connection. The LCD control panel offers ice thickness adjustment and a 24-hour timer for scheduled operation.

The 3-year full product warranty and 10-year compressor warranty are exceptional for this price tier, signaling the manufacturer’s confidence in the R290 compressor and the alloy steel construction. Owners mention the self-cleaning mode works effectively with a five-second button hold, and the included ice scoop and installation kit reduce additional purchases. The unit produces clear cubes from the first cycle, with most users seeing a full bin in under six hours.

The trade-off for this warranty and performance is that the unit requires a gravity drain — no internal pump is available. It is also slightly taller than some competitors at 33.5 inches, so check your counter opening height before ordering. For a residential kitchen or small cafe that can accommodate gravity drainage, this is the strongest value in the list.

Why it’s great

  • 3-year full warranty and 10-year compressor coverage
  • Triple-layer foam holds ice up to 12 hours
  • Clear cube production with consistent cycle times

Good to know

  • Gravity drain only — no pump option for elevated installs
  • Measures 33.5 inches tall, verify cabinet clearance
High Volume

3. Gilati Y40FA 120 Lbs/Day

120 Lbs/Day30 Lbs Bin

The Gilati Y40FA produces 120 lbs of ice daily, the highest production rate among the standard-width models reviewed. Each cycle drops 40 clear cubes every 10 to 16 minutes, and the 30 lb storage bin is sufficient for steady draw during lunch or cocktail rush. The 3-layer insulated construction and reversible stainless steel door match the build quality of units costing significantly more, and the front ventilation design allows built-in installation without excessive clearance.

Owners report that the unit runs quietly during the freeze cycle, though the ice drop sound is noticeable — typical for this type of machine. The LCD panel displays ambient temperature and allows the user to adjust ice thickness and set a 24-hour timer. The self-cleaning function activates by holding the “Timer Clean” button, and the included water inlet and drain hoses are standard 1/4-inch compression fittings that mate easily with existing plumbing under a sink.

The primary limitation is that the Gilati uses gravity drainage, and some owners noted that the drain hose must be positioned without kinks to function properly. If you need 120 lbs daily production and have a gravity-accessible drain, this is the fastest producer in the mid-range segment. The brand is newer to the category, but the customer service response on shipping damage cases has been positive in user reports.

Why it’s great

  • Highest daily production (120 lbs) in the standard width
  • Quiet operation during freeze cycle
  • Adjustable ice thickness via LCD panel

Good to know

  • Gravity drain requires kink-free hose routing
  • Brand is newer, limited long-term owner data
Basement Ready

4. ICYGLEE with Drain Pump 100 Lbs/Day

Built-in Pump100 Lbs/Day

The ICYGLEE undercounter ice machine solves the drainage problem that stops many buyers from installing undercounter ice makers in basements, islands, or slab-on-grade floors. The built-in electric drain pump pushes water upward, eliminating the need for a gravity-fed drain line below the unit. It produces 100 lbs of ice per day with a 24 lb storage bin, and the R290 compressor cycles 40 cubes every 8 to 16 minutes, which is competitive with gravity-only models in the same price bracket.

The 3-layer insulation keeps ice from melting too quickly in the bin, and the LCD panel provides water shortage and ice-full alerts. Owners who installed the unit in basements for home bars report that the pump works reliably when the drain hose is kept short and positioned correctly. The self-cleaning function and 24-hour timer add convenience, and the reversible door allows flexible placement under counters with adjacent cabinets.

The 24 lb storage bin is smaller than some competitors, meaning you must transfer ice to a freezer if you need to stockpile for parties. Several owners emphasized that the drain pump requires a specific drop clearance — the outlet must be at least 10 inches below the pump connection point — so review the manual carefully before cutting into cabinetry. For spaces where gravity drainage is impossible, this pump-equipped unit is the correct choice.

Why it’s great

  • Built-in drain pump enables basement and island installs
  • Fast cycle time (8-16 min) for high volume
  • Self-cleaning mode simplifies maintenance

Good to know

  • 24 lb storage bin is smaller than many alternatives
  • Pump requires minimum 10-inch drop below unit
Large Bin

5. RAPSUAR 95 Lbs/Day

95 Lbs/Day35 Lbs Bin

The RAPSUAR 95 lb/day machine stands out for its 35 lb storage bin, which is larger than many 18-inch class competitors and useful for those who want to accumulate ice for events without constantly transferring to a freezer. The unit produces 40 clear cubes every 15 to 20 minutes, and the 3-layer material housing maintains cube integrity longer than single-wall designs. Owners consistently mention the quick first batch — around 12 minutes — and the straightforward water line and drain hose connections.

The stainless steel exterior and reversible door give it a clean look under standard cabinetry. The 24-hour timer and adjustable ice thickness settings are controlled via an LCD screen that displays ambient temperature. Several reviewers who use this unit for nugget-style ice reported good results, though the manufacturer specifies clear cube production as the primary output. The self-cleaning function activates with a five-second press, and the automatic water supply means no manual refilling.

The 750-watt power draw is higher than most comparable models, so ensure your circuit can handle the load if other appliances share the same line. The unit is 19 inches wide, slightly above the standard 18-inch opening — measure your space precisely. One owner reported a door hinge failure after two months, though the manufacturer responded promptly with a replacement. If width clearance is not an issue, the large bin makes this a practical choice for heavy-use households.

Why it’s great

  • 35 lb storage bin reduces need for frequent transfers
  • Fast first batch in approximately 12 minutes
  • Good for both clear cubes and nugget-style ice

Good to know

  • 19-inch width requires more space than standard 18-inch cutouts
  • 750-watt draw may necessitate dedicated circuit
Drainless

6. COTLIN Drainless Crescent Ice Maker

No Drain RequiredCrescent Ice

The COTLIN drainless ice maker eliminates the most common installation barrier: the need for a dedicated drain line. It requires only a water supply connection and a standard power outlet, making it viable for kitchens, bars, and office break rooms where cutting into the plumbing is impractical. It produces crescent-shaped ice at 42 lbs per day with a 22 lb storage bin, which is lower daily volume than gravity models but sufficient for a small household or low-traffic commercial setting.

The unit uses R600a refrigerant and a powerful freezing system that maintains ice temperatures between 26.6 and 32 degrees Fahrenheit inside the bin, preventing the melt-and-recycle cycle that can degrade ice quality in some drainless designs. Owners report whisper-quiet operation compared to compressor-driven units, and the brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints. The reversible door and adjustable leveling feet make it easy to fit into spaces with uneven floors.

The trade-off is clear: lower production capacity and the need to manually clean the system monthly to prevent scale buildup, since drainless models recirculate meltwater. The 22 lb bin fills quickly and then the machine stops until ice is removed, so you cannot stockpile large volumes. If your situation demands zero plumbing modification and you prioritize quiet operation over raw volume, the COTLIN is the most accessible option in the premium segment.

Why it’s great

  • No drain line needed, simplifies installation significantly
  • Very quiet operation during freeze and harvest cycles
  • ETL certified for safety and reliability

Good to know

  • 42 lbs daily production is low for heavy use
  • Requires regular manual cleaning to prevent bacteria growth
Nugget Ice

7. EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker 70 Lbs/Day

70 Lbs/DayDouble Ice Baskets

The EUHOMY NIMU-01-01X is a dedicated nugget ice machine producing 70 lbs of chewable pebble ice per day — the same texture as Sonic or fast-food restaurant ice. The double-layer ice basket design holds enough for continuous use without overflow, and the advanced insulation system keeps 80% of the nugget ice unmelted for a full day when the bin is full. The LCD panel displays ambient temperature and provides water shortage and ice-full alerts, plus a 24-hour timer and self-cleaning mode.

Owners rave about the ice quality for cocktails, sodas, and frozen coffee drinks, noting that the nugget texture absorbs syrup flavors quickly. The unit measures 15 inches wide and 33 inches tall, fitting standard undercounter openings, and can also be used as a freestanding unit. The R290 compressor cycles efficiently at 198 watts, making it one of the most energy-efficient nugget machines available. Installation requires a gravity drain connection — no built-in pump — so plan your drain location accordingly.

Several commercial users installed this in bakery coffee shops and report that it keeps up with steady demand throughout the day. The lack of an on/off switch means the machine stops via a mechanical lever when the bin is full, which some owners find less convenient than a toggle. The instructions are sparse, but the physical connections are standard: 1/4-inch water line and 3/4-inch drain hose. If nugget ice is your priority, this is the best-performing option for the price.

Why it’s great

  • True nugget (pebble) ice, not modified cubes
  • Low power consumption at 198 watts
  • Excellent insulation retains ice shape all day

Good to know

  • Gravity drain only; no built-in pump
  • No physical on/off switch, stops via bin lever
Compact Nugget

8. Electactic Nugget Ice Maker 66 Lbs/Day

66 Lbs/Day12H Keep-Fresh

The Electactic Z5812SH produces 66 lbs of nugget ice per day and fits a 15-inch wide undercounter opening with a depth of 17.72 inches, making it one of the more space-efficient nugget machines available. The first batch of chewable ice drops in under 10 minutes, and the dual ice bin design separates production from stored ice to maintain quality. The manufacturer claims 80% of ice remains unmelted for 12 hours, which aligns with owner reports of solid texture retention through a full day of use.

The LCD panel provides real-time status including ambient temperature, water shortage alerts, and ice-full indicators. The self-cleaning function automates monthly maintenance, and the 24-hour timer allows scheduling so fresh ice is ready for morning shift or afternoon entertaining. The stainless steel door with reversible hinge fits both left-opening and right-opening cabinet layouts, and the adjustable leveling legs handle uneven floors without rocking.

The primary limitation is that the Electactic requires a gravity drain system — there is no internal pump. At 66 lbs per day, the production rate is adequate for a home bar or small cafe but may not keep up with heavy commercial lunch or dinner rushes without pre-staging. Some owners noted that the included manual is vague about initial setup procedures, but the physical installation follows the same standard water line and drain hose connections as other undercounter units. For a dedicated nugget machine in a tight space, the build quality and ice speed are hard to beat.

Why it’s great

  • First batch of nugget ice in under 10 minutes
  • Compact 17.72-inch depth fits tight cabinet spaces
  • 12-hour ice retention with enhanced insulation

Good to know

  • Gravity drain only — no pump option
  • 66 lbs per day may require pre-staging for heavy demand
Entry Level

9. SOZT SDZ45B 130 Lbs/Day

130 Lbs/Day35 Lbs Bin

The SOZT SDZ45B is one of the highest-volume budget options at 130 lbs daily production with a 35 lb storage bin. The frosted black stainless steel finish and front air vent design allow both undercounter and freestanding placement. The LCD panel includes a 24-hour reservation function, automatic self-cleaning, de-icing mode, and built-in blue lighting for visibility in dark bar areas. The unit produces 45 cubes per cycle in 10 to 20 minutes, and owners report clear, bite-sized crescent ice from the first batch.

The heavy-duty stainless steel body with food-grade PP liner and thickened foam insulation helps slow melting, though the storage bin is not refrigerated — ice will begin to melt after several hours if not transferred to a freezer. The included water inlet hose, drain hose, and quick connector make DIY installation manageable for anyone comfortable with basic plumbing. Owners who purchased for home bars and outdoor kitchens report satisfaction with the production speed and straightforward setup.

The primary concerns are consistency of ice shape — some owners report that cubes occasionally freeze together in sheets rather than individual cubes — and the 1-year warranty is shorter than most mid-range alternatives. Customer service responsiveness appears strong based on reports of replacement units sent for defects after several months of use. If you need maximum daily volume at a budget-friendly price and can tolerate occasional ice clumping, the SOZT delivers the most ice per dollar.

Why it’s great

  • 130 lbs per day is the highest claimed production in this group
  • 35 lb storage bin pairs well with high output
  • Frosted black finish suits modern bar aesthetics

Good to know

  • Ice may freeze into sheets rather than individual cubes
  • 1-year warranty is shorter than many competitors
Compact Storage

10. EUHOMY CIM002-80S 85 Lbs/Day

85 Lbs/Day24 Lbs Bin

The EUHOMY CIM002-80S produces 85 lbs of ice per day with a 24 lb storage bin, making it suitable for small households, office break rooms, and low-volume commercial use. The 14.96-inch width and 18.47-inch depth fit neatly under standard cabinetry, and the reversible stainless steel door provides layout flexibility. The 3-layer insulated housing keeps ice solid longer, and the LCD panel allows ice thickness adjustment and 24-hour timer scheduling. The self-cleaning function activates by holding the timer clean button for five seconds, reducing manual effort.

The unit produces 40 clear cubes every 10 to 18 minutes, and the R290 compressor runs at 203 watts, making it energy-efficient for continuous operation. Owners who installed this under kitchen counters for daily beverage ice report consistent performance over several months, with clear ice that does not carry off-flavors when using filtered water. The gravity drain design is straightforward, and the included water inlet and drain hoses are standard fit for 1/4-inch and 3/4-inch connections respectively.

The 24 lb storage bin is the smallest among direct competitors, so this unit is best for situations where ice is consumed immediately or transferred to a freezer regularly. The 1-year warranty is standard but shorter than the TUATNUT or Mojgar. If you need a compact, reliable cube machine for light-to-moderate use and do not need to stockpile large quantities, the EUHOMY CIM002-80S is a solid, affordable option with proven customer satisfaction.

Why it’s great

  • Compact footprint works in tight undercounter spaces
  • Low energy consumption at 203 watts
  • Clear, odor-free ice with filtered water connection

Good to know

  • 24 lb storage bin requires frequent ice transfer
  • 1-year warranty is shorter than mid-range competitors
Ultra Capacity

11. FOHERE ZB300 500 Lbs/Day

500 Lbs/Day350 Lbs Bin

The FOHERE ZB300 is a full-scale commercial ice machine rated for 500 lbs of ice per day with a 350 lb stainless steel storage bin. This unit is not a countertop or standard 18-inch undercounter model — it stands 65 inches tall and measures 22.3 inches wide — but it is the only option in this list for high-volume commercial operations such as seafood markets, hotel kitchens, and large bars. The air-cooled compressor produces 182 ice cubes per cycle in 10 to 15 minutes, and the LCD touchscreen controls timing, self-cleaning, ice thickness, and diagnostic monitoring.

The food-grade stainless steel bin includes a thicker insulating foam layer that prevents ice melt for 8 to 11 hours. The unit comes with a premium water filter, inlet and drain hoses, and four adjustable feet. The self-cleaning cycle and 24-hour timer schedule automate maintenance. Owners running busy cafes and catering businesses report that the machine handles continuous demand without dropping production speed, and the bullet-shaped cubes are dense and slow-melting.

The size, weight (262 lbs), and power requirements mean this is not a casual purchase — it requires dedicated space, a circuit capable of handling the load, and commercial-grade drainage. Some owners reported difficulty with assembly instructions translated from Chinese, and a few units experienced compressor failure within the first three months, though replacement support was inconsistent. At this capacity level, investigate local warranty support and consider a service contract. For any application that needs hundreds of pounds of ice daily, the FOHERE provides the raw capacity competitors in the 18-inch class simply cannot match.

Why it’s great

  • 500 lbs daily production for heavy commercial use
  • 350 lb bin stores enough for full service days
  • Includes water filter and comprehensive installation kit

Good to know

  • Not a standard 18-inch undercounter size
  • Some reports of compressor issues and inconsistent warranty support

FAQ

Can an 18 inch undercounter ice maker be installed without a drain line?
Yes, but only if you purchase a drainless model like the COTLIN unit reviewed above. Drainless machines recirculate meltwater and evaporate excess, requiring only a water supply and power connection. However, they produce significantly less ice per day and require more frequent manual cleaning to prevent scale and bacteria buildup.
How do I stop my undercounter ice maker from producing cloudy ice?
Cloudy ice is typically caused by dissolved minerals and trapped air in the water supply. Using a water filter inline before the machine significantly reduces cloudiness. Some models also include a slower freeze cycle setting that allows more time for air to escape, resulting in clearer cubes. If your unit uses a direct water line, install a simple sediment and carbon block filter.
Why does my ice maker stop producing ice before the bin is full?
Most undercounter ice makers have a bin thermostat or mechanical arm that shuts off production when the ice level reaches a certain point. If ice is piling up unevenly or the thermostat is triggered by cold air rather than ice contact, the machine may stop early. Check that the bin is not blocked by a large clump of ice and that the sensor area is clean. Some owners adjust the timer setting to create smaller individual cubes that settle more evenly.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

For most users, the 18 inch undercounter ice machine winner is the Mojgar HBZB-36F because it combines a 100 lb daily yield with a 35 lb storage bin, 2-year warranty, and reliable R290 compressor performance that owners consistently trust for both residential and light commercial use. If you need a drain pump for a basement install, grab the ICYGLEE with built-in drain pump — it solves the one problem that stops most undercounter installations. And for premium chewable nugget ice without the gravity drain requirement of a traditional machine, nothing beats the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker for daily texture and energy efficiency.