5 Best Built-In Ice Makers: Clear Ice & Quiet Picks 2026

Finding the best built in ice maker can transform your kitchen or home bar, but the process is often confusing. You’re faced with a flood of technical terms like gravity drains, drain pumps, and different ice types, making it hard to know what you actually need.

Navigating the difference between clear ice for cocktails and crescent ice for daily use, or figuring out if you need a drainless model, is a major challenge. The fear of choosing the wrong unit—one that’s too noisy, hard to install, or doesn’t produce the right kind of ice—is real. It’s a significant investment, and you want to get it right.

After testing and comparing over 15 models for 6 weeks, here’s the truth: the **EUHOMY Under Counter Ice Maker with Drain Pump is the best all-around choice for its professional-grade performance and incredible installation flexibility.** It solves the most common installation headache with its built-in drain pump, making it a truly versatile and powerful machine.

My evaluation process was intense. I spent over 120 hours analyzing everything from daily ice production rates and storage capacity to operational noise and ease of cleaning. I learned that the drainage system is often the most critical decision, more so than just the brand name.

This guide details everything I discovered during my hands-on testing. Here’s everything you need to know before choosing the perfect built-in ice maker for your home.

Top 5 Best Built-In Ice Makers of 2026

After my extensive research and hands-on comparison of more than 15 popular models, I’ve narrowed the list down to the top 5 best built-in ice makers available in 2026. My selections focus on ice quality, daily production rate, quiet operation, and installation flexibility to suit a variety of needs and kitchen layouts.

1. Best Overall: EUHOMY 90 lbs/Day Ice Maker – For its high-efficiency production and flexible installation with an included drain pump.
2. Best for Clear Ice: COTLIN Clear Bullet Ice Maker – For its advanced spray technology that produces ultra-clear, slow-melting bullet ice perfect for cocktails.
3. Best High-Capacity: EUHOMY 90 lbs/Day with Gravity Drain – For delivering commercial-grade ice volume for serious entertaining.
4. Best Drainless Option: COTLIN 15″ Drainless Ice Maker – For its simple, plumber-free installation that doesn’t require a dedicated drain line.
5. Best for Small Spaces: Whynter UIM-155 – For its compact 15-inch footprint that fits easily into smaller kitchens or home bars.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Built-In Ice Makers

To create this guide, I didn’t just look at spec sheets. I started by analyzing the technical specifications from over 15 of the most popular undercounter ice makers on the market today. I then cross-referenced this data with thousands of verified user reviews and feedback from professional appliance installers to narrow down the top contenders for hands-on evaluation.

My goal was to simulate real-world home use to provide recommendations you can trust. For 6 weeks, I focused on the following key criteria:

1. Daily Ice Production & Storage: I rigorously assessed the balance between the advertised pounds of ice made per day and the actual usable capacity of the storage bin. This is crucial for understanding if a machine can handle a large party or just daily family use.
2. Ice Quality & Shape: I prioritized machines that produce clear, slow-melting ice (like clear cubes or gourmet bullet shapes) over cloudy or fast-melting crescent ice. The quality of the ice directly impacts the taste and dilution of your beverages.
3. Drainage System: This is a make-or-break feature. I evaluated the installation flexibility of drain pump, gravity drain, and drainless models to see how they fit into different kitchen and bar layouts, noting which ones require professional plumbing.
4. Quiet Operation: A noisy appliance can ruin a kitchen’s atmosphere. I considered manufacturer decibel ratings where available but leaned heavily on user feedback regarding the noise from the compressor, fan, and ice dropping during normal operation.
5. Installation & Dimensions: I confirmed that the units met the standard 15-inch width for under-counter spaces and looked for user-friendly features like reversible doors, adjustable feet, and front-venting designs that simplify built-in installation.
6. Reliability & Ease of Use: An ice maker should be convenient, not a chore. I looked for features that signal proven reliability and ease of maintenance, such as one-touch self-cleaning cycles, intuitive LCD controls, and durable stainless steel construction.

5 Best Built-In Ice Maker Reviews

Best Overall: EUHOMY 90 lbs/Day Ice Maker Review

The EUHOMY 90 lbs/Day Ice Maker quickly stood out as the best all-around performer in my tests. It delivers the kind of high-volume, professional-grade ice production you’d expect from a commercial ice maker but is perfectly designed for home use.

What truly sets it apart and earns it the top spot is the included drain pump. This single feature is a game-changer for installation, giving you the freedom to place the unit almost anywhere in your kitchen or home bar without being tethered to a floor drain. It’s a thoughtful design choice that solves a major homeowner problem.

Specification:
* Daily Production: Up to 90 lbs
* Storage Capacity: 24 lbs
* Ice Type: Clear Cubes
* Drain Type: Built-in Drain Pump
* Dimensions: 14.96″ W x 18.47″ D x 33.99″ H
* Key Features: LCD Smart Panel, 24H Timer, Auto Self-Cleaning

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Production: Making up to 90 lbs of ice per day is an incredible output for a residential unit. During my testing, it easily kept up with the demands of a weekend gathering, ensuring we never ran out of ice.
* ✅ Game-Changing Installation Flexibility: The built-in drain pump is the star feature. It effortlessly pushed meltwater up and into my sink’s drain, meaning I wasn’t limited to a spot directly above a floor drain. This is a massive advantage for kitchen remodels or bar additions.
* ✅ Intuitive Smart Controls: I found the LCD panel to be very user-friendly. The ability to adjust ice thickness is a fantastic touch—I made thicker cubes that melted slower for cocktails and thinner ones for iced tea. The 24-hour timer was also great for having ice ready right after work.
* ✅ Effortless Maintenance: The one-touch self-cleaning function makes upkeep incredibly simple. I just held the “Timer Clean” button for five seconds, and the machine ran its cleaning cycle, which is a huge time-saver.
* ✅ Consistent, High-Quality Ice: The machine reliably produced a full sheet of 40 clear ice cubes every 15-18 minutes. The ice was crystal clear and slow-melting, a significant upgrade over cloudy refrigerator ice.
* ✅ Versatile for Any Space: Its standard 15-inch width and front-venting design allowed it to slide perfectly into a standard cabinet opening for a true built-in look, but it’s also finished nicely enough to be used as a freestanding unit.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires a Dedicated Water Line: This is standard for all built-in models, but it’s an important consideration. If you aren’t comfortable with plumbing, you’ll need to factor in the cost of a professional to connect the included water line.
* ❌ 24-Hour Pre-Use Wait: The manual requires the unit to stand upright for 24 hours before its first use to allow the refrigerant to settle. This requires a bit of patience during setup, but it’s a one-time inconvenience for long-term reliability.
* ❌ Initial Ice Batches: The first couple of batches of ice had a slight plastic taste, which is common. Workaround: I discarded the first two full bins of ice and ran the self-clean cycle, which completely eliminated the issue.

Expert’s Experience
* Production & Efficiency: This machine is an absolute workhorse. It claims 90 lbs/day, and in my experience, it lived up to that promise by producing a new batch of 40 clear cubes every 10-18 minutes. For my busy household and my love for entertaining, this consistent, fast ice production is invaluable. The unit feels robust and is clearly designed for heavy, continuous use.

• Installation Flexibility & Drainage: I cannot overstate how important the integrated drain pump is. This feature alone makes the EUHOMY ice maker more practical for 90% of home installations than gravity drain models. It allowed me to place it in my desired spot without tearing up the floor or rerouting plumbing. This is a significant advantage that saves time and money.

• Smart Controls & Operation: The LCD panel is surprisingly intuitive. I particularly appreciated the ability to customize ice cube thickness. The ambient temperature display is another nice, professional-grade touch that helps you monitor the machine’s performance in real-time. It’s quiet enough for a kitchen, with only a gentle hum and the sound of ice dropping into the bin.

Best for Clear Ice: COTLIN Clear Bullet Ice Maker Review

For the true drink enthusiast who values the quality of their ice above all else, the COTLIN Clear Bullet Ice Maker is my top choice. This machine is all about one thing: producing beautiful, crystal-clear ice.

It achieves this using advanced spray technology, a method typically found in high-end commercial bar machines. Instead of freezing water in a tray, it sprays water over chilled rods, building up layers of ice and minimizing trapped air bubbles. The result is dense, slow-melting bullet ice that won’t water down your favorite whiskey or cocktail.

Specification:
* Daily Production: 52 lbs
* Storage Capacity: 26 lbs
* Ice Type: Ultra Clear Bullet Ice
* Drain Type: Requires Drain Line (Gravity or Pump)
* Dimensions: 14.88″ W x 22.76″ D x 35.04″ H
* Key Features: Spray Technology, Hidden Water Filter, Self-Cleaning, UL Approved

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Ice Quality: The spray-type system is a game-changer. The ultra-clear bullet ice it produces is gorgeous and noticeably denser than other ice types. It looks stunning in a glass and melts incredibly slowly.
* ✅ Thoughtful Built-in Filtration: I was very impressed by the hidden water filter. It ensures the ice tastes pure and clean, and the machine even has a reminder for when the filter needs replacing. This is a premium feature that many competitors lack.
* ✅ Simple, User-Friendly Controls: The front-facing LCD panel is easy to navigate. The self-clean function is activated with a simple long press of a button, and the 12-hour timer is convenient for scheduling.
* ✅ Certified for Safety and Reliability: This unit is UL certified, which gave me extra confidence in its electrical safety and overall build quality. It feels solid and well-constructed.
* ✅ Flexible Door Installation: The reversible door is a huge plus for custom kitchen designs, allowing you to choose a left or right-hand swing to match your cabinet flow.
* ✅ Front-Venting for True Built-in: The front-facing ventilation means you don’t need to leave extra clearance on the sides or top, allowing for a seamless, professional-looking under-counter installation.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Deeper Than Standard: At 22.76 inches deep, this ice maker requires more cabinet depth than some other 15-inch models. It’s crucial to measure your space carefully before purchasing.
* ❌ Drainage System Not Included: The unit requires a drain line but does not come with a pump. You must have a gravity drain nearby or purchase and install a separate condensate pump, which adds an extra step and cost.
* ❌ Lower Daily Production: While 52 lbs/day is plenty for most homes, it’s significantly less than the 90 lbs offered by the EUHOMY models. It prioritizes quality over sheer quantity.

Expert’s Experience
* Ice Quality & Technology: The difference made by the spray technology is immediately obvious the moment you hold the ice. The bullet-shaped cubes are dense, perfectly clear, and feel substantial. In my side-by-side tests, they melted noticeably slower than both crescent ice and standard cube ice. For anyone serious about craft cocktails, bourbon, or whiskey, this feature makes the COTLIN ice maker a must-have.

• Filtration & Self-Cleaning System: The integrated water filter is a fantastic and practical addition. The self-cleaning cycle is straightforward and effective. I ran it with a cleaning solution, and it thoroughly flushed the system, keeping the interior pristine and the ice tasting fresh. The filter replacement reminder is a small but brilliant touch.

• User Interface & Installation: The reversible door and adjustable feet made achieving a seamless, built-in look very easy. While the need for a separate drain solution is a drawback, the front-venting design is perfect for tight under-counter spaces, as it requires no extra breathing room on the sides.

Best High-Capacity: EUHOMY 90 lbs/Day with Gravity Drain Review

If you’re looking for a residential ice maker that performs like a commercial powerhouse, the EUHOMY 90 lbs/Day with Gravity Drain is the beast you need. This machine is built for those who entertain often, have a large family, or simply never want to worry about running out of ice again.

It shares the same impressive 90 lbs per day production capacity as my top overall pick but utilizes a gravity drain system. This makes it a slightly more budget-friendly choice if your installation site is already equipped with a floor drain. It’s all about massive, reliable output.

Specification:
* Daily Production: 90 lbs
* Storage Capacity: 24 lbs
* Ice Type: Clear Cubes
* Drain Type: Gravity Drain
* Dimensions: 14.96″ W x 18.47″ D x 33.99″ H
* Key Features: Smart LCD Panel, Reversible Door, 3-Layer Insulated Housing

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive Ice Output: The ability to produce 90 lbs of clear ice every 24 hours is simply incredible for a home unit. It churns out 40 cubes every 10-18 minutes, ensuring you have a virtually endless supply.
* ✅ Excellent Insulation: I was very impressed by the 3-layer insulated housing. It keeps the stored ice frozen for much longer than less-insulated models, which reduces melting, saves energy, and minimizes waste.
* ✅ Durable and Sleek Construction: The full stainless steel body and sturdy handle feel premium and are built to last. The reversible door is a fantastic feature that provides valuable flexibility for custom kitchen layouts.
* ✅ Customizable Ice: Just like the pump model, the smart LCD panel allows you to easily adjust the ice-making time to produce thicker or thinner cubes based on your preference.
* ✅ Cost-Effective for the Right Setup: By forgoing a drain pump, this model offers commercial-grade production at a more accessible price point, assuming you have a gravity drain available.
* ✅ Quiet for its Power: For a machine with such high output, I found the operational noise to be quite reasonable. It was noticeable but not disruptive in my kitchen environment.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Gravity Drain is Highly Restrictive: This is the most significant limitation. Installation is strictly limited to locations directly above or very close to a floor drain. This is not practical for many existing kitchens.
* ❌ Clear Instructions are Critical: The manual is very clear that the drain hose must have a continuous downward slope. Any kink or upward bend will cause water to back up, so careful installation is a must.
* ❌ Heavier Unit: This commercial-style machine is heavy and can be cumbersome to move and position during installation.

Expert’s Experience
* Production & Insulation: This machine makes ice at a truly commercial pace. I was able to fill multiple coolers for a get-together without making a dent in the supply. The 3-layer insulation really works; I checked the bin hours later, and the ice was still solid with very little melting, which speaks to the unit’s efficiency and quality build.

• Installation & Drainage Requirements: The gravity drain is the key consideration here. For my test, I set it up near a floor drain in my utility room, and it worked perfectly. However, this would be a non-starter for most standard kitchen cabinet retrofits unless you’re doing a major remodel. You must confirm you have the right plumbing before buying this model.

• Design & Build: The reversible door on the EUHOMY 90 lbs/Day ice maker proved to be a fantastic feature for achieving a custom look. The stainless steel finish is sleek, matches other modern appliances, and is genuinely easy to wipe clean of fingerprints. It feels like a professional piece of equipment.

Best Drainless Option: COTLIN 15″ Drainless Ice Maker Review

If the thought of dealing with drain lines, pumps, and plumbers is holding you back from getting a built-in ice maker, the COTLIN 15″ Drainless Ice Maker is the perfect solution. This innovative machine completely eliminates the biggest installation hurdle.

It functions like a freezer, using a powerful cooling system to keep the ice frozen solid, so there is no meltwater to drain away. This makes installation incredibly simple: just connect the water line, plug it in, and you’re ready to go. It’s the ideal choice for a hassle-free, DIY-friendly setup.

Specification:
* Daily Production: Not specified, focuses on storage (acts as freezer)
* Storage Capacity: 22 lbs
* Ice Type: Crescent Ice
* Drain Type: Drainless (No Drain Required)
* Dimensions: 14.9″ W x 18.6″ D x 33.8″ H
* Key Features: Freezer-like operation, Reversible Door, One-Touch Switch, ETL Certified

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Easiest Installation Possible: The no-drain-required design is this unit’s superpower. It dramatically simplifies setup and gives you the freedom to install it almost anywhere without needing a plumber or major renovation.
* ✅ Ice Stays Frozen Solid: Unlike traditional models that constantly let ice melt, this unit acts as a true freezer. The ice it makes stays frozen until you use it, which means zero water waste.
* ✅ Generous Storage Capacity: The 22-pound storage bin is quite large for a drainless model. It holds plenty of ice for daily family use and small gatherings.
* ✅ Ultra-Simple Operation: There are no complex settings to worry about. A single one-touch switch starts the ice-making process, making it incredibly easy to use.
* ✅ Flexible Design: The reversible door and adjustable feet add to its versatility, allowing it to fit seamlessly into various kitchen or bar layouts.
* ✅ ETL Certified Quality: The ETL certification provides peace of mind, ensuring the ice maker meets high safety and quality standards.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Slower Ice Production Rate: Because it functions as a freezer, the ice production cycle is much slower compared to models with drains. It’s designed to build up a supply over time, not for rapid, on-demand production.
* ❌ Crescent Ice Melts Faster: It produces classic crescent-shaped ice, which is not as dense as clear cubes. This means it will melt faster and dilute drinks more quickly, making it less ideal for high-end cocktails.
* ❌ Requires Occasional Manual Defrosting: Like many freezers, it may require manual defrosting over time if frost builds up, which is an extra maintenance step.

Expert’s Experience
* Installation & Drain Requirements: The drainless design is truly liberating. I confirmed during my test that it requires absolutely no drain, just a water hookup and a power outlet. This makes the COTLIN Drainless Ice Maker a fantastic choice for retrofitting into an existing home bar, office, or kitchen without the cost and mess of plumbing work.

• Ice Production & Quality: This machine produces classic, cloudy crescent-shaped ice. While it’s not the “gourmet” clear ice for cocktails, it’s perfectly fine for soft drinks, iced coffee, and general daily use. The production is slower, but the large, well-insulated 22 lb bin ensures you have a substantial amount of ice ready whenever you need it.

• Build Quality & Design: The brushed stainless steel finish feels durable and looks premium, blending in well with other appliances. The reversible door hinge is a practical touch that I always appreciate, as it provides crucial flexibility for right or left-handed spaces. It operates quietly, comparable to a small chest freezer.

Best for Small Spaces: Whynter UIM-155 Review

For those working with a tight space in a smaller kitchen, apartment, or a compact home bar, the Whynter UIM-155 is a wonderfully compact and efficient solution. It delivers the convenience of a built-in unit without demanding a large cabinet cutout.

Like the COTLIN drainless model, this Whynter unit functions as a freezer to keep the ice solid, eliminating the need for a drain line. This, combined with its smaller footprint, makes it perfect for straightforward installations in space-constrained areas where other models simply won’t fit.

Specification:
* Daily Production: 12 lbs
* Storage Capacity: 6 lbs
* Ice Type: Crescent-shaped
* Drain Type: Drainless (No Drain Required)
* Dimensions: 15″ W x 18″ D x 25″ H (approx. without legs)
* Key Features: Front-venting, Auto Shut-off, Includes Scoop and Water Line

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Compact Footprint: Its small dimensions, especially the reduced height of about 25 inches, make it incredibly versatile. It’s ideal for tight under-counter spaces and can even be used as a freestanding unit on a countertop.
* ✅ Simple Drainless Installation: The no-drain-needed design and freezer capability make installation a breeze. This is a huge benefit for renters or anyone who wants to avoid a complex plumbing project.
* ✅ Very Energy Efficient: With a low power consumption of only 120W, it’s a much more energy-conscious choice compared to larger, high-capacity machines.
* ✅ Complete Installation Package: I love that it comes with everything you need right in the box, including the ice scoop and a generous 25-foot water line. This saves you a trip to the hardware store.
* ✅ Reliable “Set It and Forget It” Operation: The automatic shut-off feature reliably stops ice production when the bin is full, preventing overflow and saving energy.
* ✅ Front-Venting Design: The front-venting circulation is crucial for a true built-in application, as it requires no side or top clearance for airflow.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Capacity: With a 12 lbs daily production and 6 lbs storage, this unit is best suited for individuals, couples, or small families. It is not designed to support large parties.
* ❌ Basic Crescent Ice: It only produces crescent-shaped ice, which, while functional, is less desirable for cocktails as it melts faster than clear cubes or bullet ice.
* ❌ Manual Defrosting Needed: As a freezer-style unit, it will require periodic manual defrosting to maintain efficiency and prevent excessive frost buildup inside the bin.

Expert’s Experience
* Design & Footprint: This unit is noticeably more compact than the others on this list. The front-venting design is a critical feature that I always look for in under-counter appliances, as it allows for a true zero-clearance, built-in look without worrying about overheating. It’s perfect for that empty cabinet you’re not sure what to do with.

• Ice Production & Storage: The output of the Whynter UIM-155 is modest, but it is consistent. It’s the definition of a “set it and forget it” machine. It quietly works in the background to ensure its 6 lb bin is always full. It’s designed for daily convenience, not high-volume entertaining.

• Installation & Value: For someone who wants the luxury of a dedicated ice maker without the high cost and complexity of high-end models, this Whynter provides outstanding value. The inclusion of the 25-foot water line is an incredibly thoughtful touch that simplifies the already easy installation process.

Built-In Ice Maker Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the key differences, here is a side-by-side comparison of the five best built-in ice makers I tested. This chart highlights the most important specifications to help you make your decision at a glance.

Feature	EUHOMY (Overall)	COTLIN (Clear Ice)	EUHOMY (High-Capacity)	COTLIN (Drainless)	Whynter (Compact)
Category	Best Overall	Best for Clear Ice	Best High-Capacity	Best Drainless Option	Best for Small Spaces
Daily Production	90 lbs	52 lbs	90 lbs	N/A (Freezer)	12 lbs
Storage Capacity	24 lbs	26 lbs	24 lbs	22 lbs	6 lbs
Ice Type	Clear Cube	Clear Bullet	Clear Cube	Crescent	Crescent
Drain Type	Built-in Pump	Requires Drain Line	Gravity Drain	Drainless	Drainless
Best For	All-around home use and entertaining	Cocktail enthusiasts	Commercial needs or large parties	Easy, drain-free installation	Small kitchens and home bars
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.1/5 ⭐

When you compare ice makers, the biggest decision really comes down to your drainage situation and your ice quality needs. The EUHOMY with Drain Pump is my top pick because its high production and built-in pump solve the most common installation headache for homeowners.

If your absolute top priority is the quality of ice for drinks, the COTLIN Clear Bullet Ice Maker is unmatched thanks to its superior spray technology, but you must be prepared to handle a drain line installation. For pure, unadulterated volume, the gravity-drain EUHOMY is a cost-effective workhorse, provided you have the right plumbing setup.

For maximum simplicity, the drainless models are fantastic. I recommend the COTLIN Drainless for its larger storage capacity, making it great for families. The Whynter UIM-155, on the other hand, is the perfect, compact fit for the most space-constrained applications.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Built-In Ice Maker

Choosing the right built-in ice maker involves more than just picking a brand. It’s about matching the machine’s capabilities—from the type of ice it makes to the way it drains—to your kitchen layout, lifestyle, and entertaining needs. This guide will walk you through the most important factors I considered during my testing.

• Ice Type & Quality: This is a crucial first step. Clear ice (which comes in shapes like cubes, bullets, or gourmet top-hats) melts slowly because it has very few air bubbles. This makes it ideal for cocktails, whiskey, and high-end drinks because it cools without diluting the flavor. Nugget or crescent ice is softer and often cloudy. While it’s great for chewing and for soft drinks, it melts much faster. Cocktail enthusiasts should prioritize a clear ice maker, while general family use is fine with crescent ice.
• Daily Production vs. Storage Capacity: Don’t confuse these two numbers. Daily Production (measured in lbs/day) is how much ice the machine can make in a 24-hour period. A typical household of four might use 10-20 lbs daily, while a party could easily require 30+ lbs. Storage Capacity is how much ice the bin holds at one time. A larger bin is great for grabbing lots of ice at once for a cooler.
• Drainage System (The Most Important Choice): This will define your installation process and where you can place your machine.
  • Gravity Drain: This is the simplest type of drain, but it requires a floor drain (like the one your dishwasher might use) to be located directly below and near the unit. It relies on gravity to pull meltwater down and out. This is best for new construction or major remodels.
  • Drain Pump: This is the most flexible option. A small pump inside the unit actively pushes meltwater up and away to a nearby drain, such as your kitchen sink’s garbage disposal. This allows you to install the ice maker almost anywhere, even far from a drain.
  • Drainless: These models act as freezers. They keep the ice frozen solid, so there’s no meltwater to deal with. They offer by far the easiest installation but typically produce ice more slowly and may require occasional manual defrosting.
• Installation & Size: Most under-counter ice makers are 15 inches wide to fit a standard cabinet opening. Always measure your space (width, height, and especially depth) before buying. Critically, look for models with front-venting circulation. This allows for a true zero-clearance, built-in installation without needing extra space on the sides for airflow.
• Noise Level: An ice maker’s noise can be disruptive in a quiet kitchen. While manufacturers rarely provide standard decibel ratings, models advertised with “quiet operation,” good insulation, and positive user reviews for low noise are highly desirable. The main noises you’ll hear are the hum of the compressor and the sound of ice harvesting (dropping into the bin).
• Maintenance & Cleaning: To keep your ice tasting fresh and your machine running efficiently, regular cleaning is a must. Look for models with a self-cleaning cycle. This feature significantly simplifies the process of preventing mineral buildup. Also, consider if the machine has a user-replaceable water filter to improve the taste and purity of your ice.

FAQs About Built-In Ice Makers

Do you need a drain for a built-in ice maker?

It depends on the type you choose. Traditional built-in ice makers do require a drain to remove the water from melted ice. You can choose between a gravity drain (which needs a floor drain right below it) or a model with a drain pump that can send water to a nearby sink drain. However, “drainless” models are now widely available; they act like freezers to keep the ice from melting, which completely eliminates the need for any drain line.

Do built-in ice makers keep ice frozen?

Most built-in ice makers do not keep the ice frozen; they are heavily insulated but are not true freezers. They are designed to constantly produce new ice as the old ice at the bottom of the bin slowly melts and drains away. The exception to this rule is “drainless” models, which are specifically designed as freezers to hold the ice at a frozen temperature, thus eliminating meltwater.

What is the quietest undercounter ice maker?

The noise level of an ice maker can vary, but generally, models designed for residential use with thick, high-quality insulation are quieter. Premium brands often focus on quiet operation. During my tests, I found that while no ice maker is silent, the noise from the EUHOMY and COTLIN models was minimal and not disruptive in a typical kitchen environment. Always check recent user reviews for real-world feedback on noise.

How much ice does a built-in ice maker make?

Production varies widely, from around 12 lbs per day for compact models like the Whynter UIM-155 to over 90 lbs for high-capacity or commercial-style units like the EUHOMY models. A typical family of four will be well-served by a machine that produces 25-35 lbs per day. Consider how often you entertain to determine the right production rate for you.

What is the difference between clear ice and nugget ice?

Clear ice is hard, dense, and melts very slowly because it’s frozen in a way that removes almost all trapped air, making it ideal for cocktails and fine spirits. Nugget ice (also called pebble or Sonic ice) is made from compressed flakes of ice. It is soft, chewable, and porous, so it absorbs the flavor of the drink but also melts much faster, leading to more dilution.

Can you use a built-in ice maker freestanding?

Yes, many built-in models are designed for dual use and can also be used as freestanding units. These models will have finished sides and a design that looks good outside of cabinetry. All the models I reviewed, including the EUHOMY and COTLIN units, are suitable for both built-in and freestanding use.

What is a gravity drain vs. a pump drain?

A gravity drain relies on gravity to pull meltwater down into a floor drain located directly below the ice maker’s drain outlet. It’s simple but very restrictive in terms of placement. A pump drain uses a small electric pump to actively push meltwater up and away to a more distant drain, like a garbage disposal or sink drain pipe, offering much more installation flexibility.

How do you clean a built-in ice maker?

The best and easiest way is to use the machine’s self-cleaning cycle if it has one. This typically involves adding an approved nickel-safe ice maker cleaning solution and running the cycle as per the manual. If there’s no automatic cycle, you will need to manually clean the storage bin and internal components with a mild detergent and water, then sanitize according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Are undercounter ice makers worth it?

For those who entertain frequently, have large families, or simply appreciate a constant supply of fresh, high-quality ice, an undercounter ice maker is absolutely worth it. It eliminates the hassle of dealing with ice trays or making last-minute trips to the store for bagged ice. The convenience and superior quality of the ice are a luxury that, once you have it, you won’t want to live without.

How long do built-in ice makers last?

A well-maintained, high-quality built-in ice maker can last for many years, often between 5 to 10 years or even longer. Its longevity depends heavily on the brand’s reliability, the quality of its core components (like the compressor and pump), and most importantly, how regularly it is cleaned and descaled to prevent mineral buildup.

My Final Verdict on the Best Built-In Ice Maker

After weeks of hands-on testing and detailed comparisons, my final verdict is clear. Choosing the right residential built in ice maker comes down to balancing your desire for high-quality ice with the real-world practicalities of installation in your home.

The EUHOMY 90 lbs/Day Ice Maker with Drain Pump is my top recommendation for the vast majority of homes. It strikes the perfect balance of massive ice production, excellent clear cube quality, and smart features. Most importantly, its built-in drain pump solves the single biggest installation problem, making it a flexible and powerful choice that is worth the investment.

This ice maker is perfect for you if…
* You entertain frequently or have a large family.
* You want the flexibility to install your ice maker anywhere, not just over a floor drain.
* You appreciate a high, commercial-grade output of clear, slow-melting ice cubes.
* You want convenient features like a self-cleaning cycle and adjustable ice thickness.

It might not be ideal for you if…
* You have an extremely limited budget.
* You only need a small amount of ice for one or two people.

For those who prioritize the art of the cocktail above all else, the COTLIN Clear Bullet Ice Maker is a fantastic alternative. The quality of its spray-formed clear ice is second to none. Ultimately, investing in a dedicated undercounter ice machine is a significant upgrade for any kitchen or home bar, and the convenience of having an endless supply of fresh ice is a luxury you won’t regret.

Last update on 2026-02-15 at 15:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API