What makes the best outdoor ice machine worth the money? Well, there are several factors to take into consideration before you decide on the right one for your needs.
How easily can the ice be scooped out and put to use is important and there are two key characteristics that make this possible. It has to drain the water out as it melts so that the machine doesn’t create an ice block. And it must be very well insulated, so that less ice melts in the first place.
Another thing you will want to think about is it’s appearance. With these things in mind you must also consider your budget. I have compiled a list of the best outdoor ice machines based on price.
10. Luma Comfort Portable Clear Ice Maker
This unit makes restaurant-style quality ice cubes that are crystal clear. It will produce 28 pounds per day and there is no plumbing required, making it extremely portable. With it’s modern design, it is a great piece of equipment for the price.
This is a great fit for any occasion and can accommodate a good sized event from home. It costs $159.98, and you can buy it on Amazon. You can also read our full review to get a better idea of the product.
9. Summit 15″ Stainless Steel 10 lbs Outdoor Ice Maker
This unit is also a relatively inexpensive option, but it will create less ice. It can produce up to 10 pounds of crescent-shaped ice a day. It can be fully built-in or used as a freestanding unit. With the three levels of weatherproofing, it is sure to stand up to outdoor conditions.
This would be a great investment for your outdoor kitchen or bar for regularly scheduled, small to medium sized events. It costs $603.90 and you can buy it on Amazon.
8. Manitowoc Ice Maker with Bin
This ice maker will produce 53 pounds of ice every day, and will store up to 25 pounds. It features a water filter and multi-function control panel with a delay. The ice is slow to melt with this unit, which is great for avoiding drink dilution. It can be built-in or used freestanding.
This is great for large events or small commercial use. It has a heftier price of $1,598.00, and you can buy it on Amazon.
7. Marvel Outdoor Crescent Ice maker
This one is a little more expensive, but with more ice production and capacity. This unit can make 12 pounds and store up to 15 pounds of ice. The door will automatically shut after opening, and does not require a drain which is a great feature for convenience. Built-in or freestanding.
This is a good-looking piece to add to your outdoor decor at home, at $1,699.00. You can buy it on Amazon.
6. The Blaze 15″ Built-In / Freestanding 50 lbs Stainless Steel Outdoor Ice Maker
This one will make 50 pounds of ice while storing up to 25 pounds. You are guaranteed clean ice production by a water filter and a percolating cold plate. The digital controls are hidden behind the door so that you don’t accidentally change the temperature. The door is reversible for installation ease.
Great for large events from your home or for small commercial use. At the price of $1,749.99, you can buy it on Amazon.
5. Manitowoc NEO Air Cooled 198 lbs Dice Cube Under Counter Ice Machine
This Manitowoc is wired for 115v plug in and makes full ice cubes. It will make 195 pounds of ice in 24 hours and will store up to 80 pounds at a time. It has a sleek style that will fit most any decor.
This would be great for commercial use or for large gatherings at home.
At the price of $1,856.00, you can buy it from Amazon.
4. Scotsman 65 lbs Self-Contained Gourmet Ice Machine
This one can store 26 pounds of ice and produce 65 pounds in a day. This machine features a water-quality censor so you know your ice is free from impurities. The drain pump will keep water from just pooling around the machine and it’s self-closing door adds to the convenience of this machine while ensuring your ice stays ice.
Scotsman is the world’s largest manufacturer of ice machines, and, with over 300 models, they made it on the list of best outdoor ice machines.
This would be great for commercial use or for large gatherings at home.
You can buy it, at $2,117.00, on Amazon.
3. Scotsman Brilliance 65 lbs Stainless Steel Outdoor Ice Maker with Drain Pump
This unit has all of the same features as the previous Scotsman ice machine I have listed, but with some very important differences. This model will produce and store the same amount of ice while using half of the energy and one third of the water. The cabinet is sleek and compatible with many areas.
This would be great for commercial use or for large gatherings at home.
At the price of $3,076.99, you can buy it from Amazon.
2. Lynx 27 lbs Stainless Steel Outdoor Ice Machine
This unit produces up to 55 pounds of bullet shaped ice in a day, and has a storage capacity of 27 pounds. It is UL listed for outdoor use, and has a built-in design. The sleek model is sure to complement any area.
This would be great for large gatherings at home.
It costs $3,099.00, and you can buy it on Amazon.
1. Hoshizaki 321 lbs Cubelet Ice Machine and Dispenser
This is certainly the largest on the list, and so it is reflected in the price. This machine can produce up to 321 pounds of ice in a day and store 40 pounds at a time. The ice is easy to chew and works great in soft drinks or in water. It’s stainless steel design is great for commercial or residential use, and you can easily install it for built-in use. There is antimicrobial protection, which will slow the slime and bacteria growth within the interior of the unit. It doesn’t use gravity to drop ice into the bin, which makes this unit much more efficient with Harvest Assist.
This would be best for commercial use.
It costs $4,555.00, and you can buy it on Amazon.
Conclusion about Outdoor Ice Machines
How fun is the party with limited margaritas because you store bags of ice or yo have to run to the kitchen for ice from the freezer with a small capacity? It’s no fun!
Outdoor ice machines are different from your run of the mill ice maker because they are equipped to keep ice coming and are designed to hold up against harsh weather. Budgets are tight these days and price has the opportunity to limit the options. With a little research you can find an affordable option for the best outdoor ice machine.
Share your thoughts and experiences with us, and, if you have any questions, feel free to ask.
