Well-formed ice is always an important sidekick to tasting sodas, cocktails, mocktails, and even water. A quality ice maker alone can bring this to reality and is thus considered an important addition for pubs, bars, clubs, and taverns. Many high-quality commercial ice makers help commercial establishments serve their customers with high-quality drinks all through the day and night. Here are the best ice machines for home bars as well as for commercial bars, clubs, pubs, etc. from some of the leading brands.
Buying Guide for Bar Ice Makers
Choosing the best ice maker for a commercial establishment like Bar comes with certain requirements such as the space to allocate, quality and shape of ice, the quantity of ice to be formed, type of drain and water filter that is required, etc. Here are the most important things to consider while buying an ice maker for bars and clubs.
1. Different types of ice makers for different establishments
For those who require a large amount of ice to serve the needs of their customers, then they should require a high capacity ice machine with a large ice bin. Modular ice makers are ideal for full-service restaurants as they prepare ice in a range of sizes. These machines also require an ice bin for ice dispensing and storing, until the ice is ready to use. Commercial ice dispensers are an excellent solution for quick-service restaurants and fast-casual establishments. Under counter, ice machines are great for bars with limited space and can easily fit under countertops and other fixtures.
Check out: Best Countertop Ice Makers 2022
2. Size of the ice cube
Most of the commercial ice maker machines form ice in three different sizes with simple + and – controls on their LCD panel. Bars and restaurants can choose the ice size according to the dish they wish to prepare and amaze their clients with high-quality ice on the go.
3. Technology
It is a good idea to choose a commercial ice maker with a built-in Bluetooth feature so that we can connect and use it with other home appliances. It is also a good idea to buy an appliance with a built-in timer on the control panel which alerts the users when the ice cycle is finished or when the water level is not enough to make ice.
4. Maintenance
Some countertop ice makers have a self-maintenance feature and with a built-in cleaning function, it will be possible to initiate the cleaning cycle as and when required to keep the appliance safe to use for customers.
What Are the Best Ice Makers for Commercial & Home Bars?
Recommended
Euhomy IM-02 is an all-rounder, so it’s one of the best ice makers for home bars as well as for commercial bars, whereas hOmeLabs and Manitowoc UDFO140A are good for small and medium bars. And in case you are looking for an ice machine for very high ice requirements then CoolLife and VEVOR 110V are perfect options.
Also Check this list: Best Ice Machines for Restaurants, Diners, Cafes, & Eatery
Best Bar Ice Makers 2022
#1. Euhomy IM-02 Commercial Ice Maker – Best Overall
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.5 |
| Easy to clean | 8.9 |
| Performance | 9.3 |
| Build quality | 8.8 |
| Noise level | 9.2 |
| Flavor | 9.2 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.9 |
| Value for money | 9.3 |
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Euhomy is a big name when it comes to commercial ice machines. This is a giant ice maker that is capable of producing about 100 pounds of ice in a day and it also comes with a storage bin of 33 pounds of ice. The appliance also has an overflow prevention mechanism and thus users need not worry about ice cubes getting overflowed. This commercial ice maker can alone meet the needs of pubs, clubs, bars, and taverns and helps customers with a large volume of high-quality ice, hence it is by far one of the best ice makers for home bars as well big commercial bars.
This is completely different from other standalone ice makers as it is ETL certified and is approved for commercial use. It can be used comfortably in bars and clubs and can be used in both residences and the indoor and outdoor kitchen.
The ice maker comprises a smart LVD panel that delineates the environmental temperature, and size of the ice cubes and also indicates when the ice is ready as well. This commercial ice machine will automatically clean when the clean button is pressed on the control panel.
This under counter ice maker is quiet and efficient and its powerful compressor allows this under counter ice machine to complete the ice making process efficiently, without causing much noise. Being a highly efficient appliance, it helps in forming high-quality ice. This Euhomy brand also has an energy certificate that helps users to save big on their electricity bills.
Read the complete review here: Euhomy Commercial Ice Maker Machine.
What do we like about Euhomy IM-02?
- Comprises of easy and one key cleaning function.
- An energy-efficient appliance that operates at low noise.
- Easy and beveled opening design.
- Makes ice in three different sizes.
What do we don’t like about Euhomy IM-02?
- It is important to drain the water once a day.
- It is recommended to clean the appliance regularly and before the first batch of ice.
#2. HomeLabs Freestanding Ice Maker – Runner Up
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.7 |
| Easy to clean | 8.9 |
| Performance | 9.3 |
| Build quality | 8.9 |
| Noise level | 8.9 |
| Flavor | 9.2 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.9 |
| Value for money | 9.4 |
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This is an expert freestanding commercial ice maker that is capable of making around 99 pounds of ice in 24 hours. The appliance also has a storage capacity of 24 hours. This appliance is thus ideal for bars, restaurants, offices, and homes. It comes with an ice scoop and a connection hose. The appliance has intense ice-making power and quickly makes 45 pieces of clear ice in one single ice of 11 to 20 minutes. The appliance holds ice to be enjoyed by all.
The appliance has a freestanding design and comes with all essential accessories.
It can be installed anywhere in the home or the bars and club, and the only condition is that there should be a water outlet near the unit. The ice maker comes in a sleek design with rust-resistant stainless steel interiors. It also comes with an ice scoop, water supply hose, water draining hose, and a water supply connector.
It is ideal for hotels, restaurants, clubs, and bars and features a 1.2L water tank that hooks directly with the water supply.
The appliance features an intuitive control panel with LCD indicators, that displays the ice-making functions and the water level of the appliance pertinently. The thickness and the size of the ice cubes can be controlled by pressing the + and – icons in the control panel. The appliance also features an automatic cleaning function for efficient ice production.
Read the complete review here: hOmeLabs Freestanding Commercial Ice Maker
What do we like about HomeLabs commercial ice maker?
- This commercial ice machine produces a large volume of ice in its 11-20 minutes ice cycle.
- There is a large storage cabinet that stores 29 pounds of ice in a day.
- This commercial-grade machine is ideal for both homes and businesses.
What do we don’t like about HomeLabs commercial ice maker?
- The appliance is approved only for indoor use.
- Requires periodic cleaning and before first-time use.
In case you need an outdoor appliance: Best Outdoor Ice Makers
#3. Crownful Commercial Ice Maker Machine – Best Budget
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.2 |
| Easy to clean | 8.8 |
| Performance | 9.4 |
| Build quality | 8.8 |
| Noise level | 9.4 |
| Flavor | 9.1 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.9 |
| Value for money | 9.7 |
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This commercial ice maker can be an ideal addition to the bar as it has a storage capacity of 29 lbs. of ice and is capable of producing about 100 lbs. of ice in over 24 hours. This freestanding ice maker machine is great for homes, restaurants, offices, bars, and coffee shops.
This is a fast and highly efficient ice maker that is capable of producing about 45 ice cubes in every cycle, that lasts for only 11 to 20 minutes. The appliance helps with the fast ice-making process, emits low noise, and is highly efficient with very low energy consumption.
The intuitive control panel of this appliance helps in performing a multitude of operations. By manipulating its controls, it is possible to control the thickness of the ice cubes, get reminded about adding water and removing the ice cubes, entitle to automatic cleaning function, and controlling the thickness of the ice cubes that are formed in this appliance. There is also a shutdown and delay time starter control in this ice maker.
The appliance comes with a complete set of accessories such as drainpipe, ice scoop, water inlet pipe, quick connector, etc. You can also connect the faucet with the drain port to automatically add the and drain water, to save more time while preparing ice. The appliance also has a thick insulation layer that can hold the ice cubes in the frozen state for a little more time.
What do we like about Crownful commercial ice maker?
- Its freestanding installation helps to place in any location
- Very compact to fit in small bars with a convenient air outlet
- Possible to adjust the size of the ice cubes
What do we don’t like about Crownful commercial ice maker?
- This commercial ice maker is not a freezer, and the ice cubes should be transferred to the freezer for storage.
#4. Manitowoc UDFO140A NEO Air-Cooled Ice Machine – Best for Mid Range Bars
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.7 |
| Easy to clean | 8.9 |
| Performance | 9.2 |
| Build quality | 8.9 |
| Noise level | 8.9 |
| Flavor | 9.1 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.9 |
| Value for money | 9.6 |
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This is an excellent under counter air-cooled ice maker appliance that comes with a 90 lb. bin with 115V electric capacity. It features a stainless steel cabinet and is capable of producing a large volume of ice in its compact footprint. The appliance comes with a scoop and holder along with holder location options. Its fingerprint resistant exterior panels make it an excellent addition for post bars, clubs, and restaurants.
The appliance has an ice production capacity of 132 pounds and its ice storage bin has a capacity of 90 pounds. Its forward sliding bin makes it easy to remove the ice professionally, without having to move the machine completely. The appliance features Alphasan that reduces the growth of bacteria, mold, yeast, and mildew. The unit offers the choice of full, half, and regular size ice cubes, and users can choose ice cubes according to their preference. The model also has pop-out air filters that help in making high-quality clear ice cubes. The appliance is capable of chucking out huge volumes of ice and makes about 64 ice cubes in 6-8 minutes.
What do we like about Manitowoc UDFO140A NEO?
- Makes large volumes of ice in less time.
- The quality and quantity of ice are too good to even in hot summer seasons.
- The machine is extremely reliable and efficient and makes a batch of ice in less than ten minutes.
What do we don’t like about Manitowoc UDFO140A NEO?
- Formed ice melts off rapidly as the storage bin is not insulated.
- Requires a floor drain.
Check out: Best Manitowoc Ice Makers
#5. Vremi Commercial Grade Ice Maker – Good for Home Bars
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.6 |
| Easy to clean | 8.7 |
| Performance | 9.1 |
| Build quality | 8.8 |
| Noise level | 8.9 |
| Flavor | 8.9 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.8 |
| Value for money | 9.4 |
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This is an excellent ice maker that is capable of producing about 100 pounds of ice in 24 hours. The storage capacity of this appliance is about 29 pounds and this is an eminent freestanding automatic clear cube ice maker machine that is perfect for home and business. It has an efficient compressor that forms about 45 clear hard ice cubes in every ice-making cycle, that lasts for about 11 to 20 minutes.
This is perfect for home bars, commercial bars, restaurants, and small businesses and its freestanding installation helps in installing the appliance in any place as one desires.
The appliance features a sleek and rust-resistant body that helps in the formation of clean and hygienic ice cubes. its digital control panel has an LCD indicator to display the water and the ice-making functions. By manipulating the controls in the ice maker, it is possible to adjust the thickness of the ice cubes and also initiate the automatic cleaning function in this ice maker.
Iced drinks can be made instantly with this ice machine, which forms crystal clear ice cubes pretty quickly. The capacity of its water tank is about 1.2 L and it attaches directly to the waterline, drawing in water whenever required to form high-quality ice cubes.
Read the complete review here: Vremi Commercial Grade Ice Maker.
What do we like about Vremi commercial ice maker?
- This ice maker appliance comes with a complete set of accessories.
- It features a self-cleaning function, that helps to form high-quality and clear ice cubes.
- Freestanding installation and digital control panel exponentiate the functionalities of the ice maker.
What do we don’t like about Vremi commercial ice maker?
- Requires access to the water line and gravity drain system.
#6. CoolLife Commercial Ice Maker – Editor’s Choice for Big Bars
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.3 |
| Easy to clean | 8.9 |
| Performance | 9.3 |
| Build quality | 8.8 |
| Noise level | 9.1 |
| Flavor | 8.9 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.9 |
| Value for money | 9.1 |
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This is an excellent ice maker that is capable of producing about 65 lbs to 200 lbs. of ice in 24 hours. The storage bin of this appliance is capable of holding about 33lbs to 55lbs. of ice at a time. This commercial ice maker will make about 120 clear ice cubes in one cycle that lasts for about 12 to 20 minutes. This is ideal for creating high-quality ice cubes in large volumes, to help chill the drinks efficiently. Every single ice cube has a standard size, making it perfect for mixed drinks and small bottle openings.
The ice maker appliance has a heavy-duty stainless steel construction with a sleek finish and helps to make high-quality and hygienic ice cubes as well. Its stainless finish contributes to its sturdiness, durability, and longevity. This freestanding ice maker can be installed anywhere in the bar. The appliance has an intuitive LCD control penal that helps with easy operation with power, cleaning, and delay functions. Its intuitive indicator panel lights up when the bin is full and when the appliance requires additional service. The controls also indicate when the appliance runs out of water and when it is time to remove the ice cubes.
The controls are not very complicated and are pretty much easy to understand. Its built-in Nano blue light and dry filter help it convenient to observe the interiors of the appliance. Its dazzling blue lights help to create visual aesthetics that helps in forming clear and hygienic ice cubes. It works great for bars, hotels, supermarkets, restaurants, bakeries, juice shops, etc.
What do we like about the CoolLife commercial ice maker?
- The appliance comes with a complete set of accessories
- The ice maker allows for both built-in and freestanding applications.
- The appliance runs on a standard household electrical current.
What do we don’t like about the CoolLife commercial ice maker?
- It requires gravity drainage
- There is no water filter available.
#7. ADT Commercial Ice Maker Machine – Best Mid Capacity
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.2 |
| Easy to clean | 8.7 |
| Performance | 9.3 |
| Build quality | 8.7 |
| Noise level | 9.4 |
| Flavor | 9.2 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.8 |
| Value for money | 9.1 |
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This is an excellent ice maker with stainless steel body for the bars and other commercial establishments. This appliance is capable of forming about 90 clear ice cubes in one ice-making cycle that lasts for about 12 to 20 minutes. Thus this machine can chunk out about 200 lbs. ice in about 24 hours. Its storage bin is capable of stocking about 55 lbs. of ice cubes in a time. the ice cubes that are formed are of the perfect size to chill drinks and water perfectly.
The appliance has a smart and intuitive control panel that helps to remove ice when the basket is full, add water when the appliance runs out of water, clean the appliance by pressing the timer button and also regulate the thickness of the ice cubes that are formed by pressing the + and the – icons on the control panel of the ice maker appliance. Its powerful compressor helps in the formation of high-quality ice cubes within seconds.
The appliance can be used both as a freestanding unit or a built-in system and is thus great for bars, coffee shops, hotels, supermarkets, etc. Its adjusting feet help to keep the machine away from the ground and thus help prevent it from water and humidity to a great extent. The appliance also comes with a complete set of accessories to make the entire process of ice making, as easy as a cakewalk.
What do we like about the ADT commercial ice maker?
- Its microcrystalline foam technology keeps ice at low temperatures for a long time.
- Its efficient and powerful compressor forms high-quality ice cubes without dissipating heat and noise.
- Adjustable feet keep the appliance off the ground.
What do we don’t like about the ADT commercial ice maker?
- The ice maker should be left idle for 24 hours before making ice for the first time.
- The ice cubes that are formed should be transferred to the freezer immediately.
#8. Northair HZB-45 Commercial Ice Maker – Alternative for Small Bars
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 8.7 |
| Easy to clean | 8.8 |
| Performance | 9.1 |
| Build quality | 8.7 |
| Noise level | 9.2 |
| Flavor | 8.8 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.7 |
| Value for money | 9.4 |
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This is an excellent commercial ice maker machine for bars, restaurants, and hotel businesses. This is an excellent built-in ice maker machine that has a storage capacity of 100 pounds for 24 hours and this appliance also holds a storage capacity of 33 pounds. As it features a freestanding design, it can be placed comfortably in any preferred location in the bar. This appliance has a powerful 300W compressor and helps in rapid and efficient ice making. This equipment has a 5*9 ice tray that is capable of forming about 45 clear ice cubes in one cycle of 12 to 18 minutes.
The ice cubes in this appliance have a thickness of 0.8”, which is perfect for mixing bottles and drinks even with a small opening. The appliance has a storage capacity of 33 lbs. of ice for flexible applications. The ice maker has stainless steel construction and it features a sleek and hygienic finish. The stainless finish of this appliance contributes to its longevity, sturdiness, and durability. The appliance also has an LED control panel that is very easy to operate. The LED controls have on and off functions, time settings, and auto-clean features. There are no complicated buttons in this appliance and this makes the entire ice-making process very convenient.
The ice maker has a built-in Nano blue light and dry filter that helps keep the ice fresh for home and commercial businesses. The appliance has built-in blue light strips making the ice cubes more convenient to observe. The appliance also has a dazzling blue light, creating a visual aesthetic that is hygienic and clean. The appliance works great for bars, hotels, supermarkets, bakeries, cold drink shops, restaurants, and a lot more.
Read the complete review here: Northair Commercial Ice Maker.
What do we like about Northair HZB-45?
- The appliance comes with a set of accessories such as ice scoops, water supply hose, and water draining hose.
- The appliance has a stainless steel body and a powerful compressor
- Digital control and blue lights in the appliance enhance its ambience to many folds.
What do we don’t like about Northair HZB-45?
- The formed ice melts pretty quickly.
Also Check: Best Built-in Ice Makers 2022
#9. Vevor 110V 265LBS Commercial Ice Machine – Alternative for Big Bars
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 8.9 |
| Easy to clean | 8.8 |
| Performance | 9.1 |
| Build quality | 8.7 |
| Noise level | 8.9 |
| Flavor | 9.1 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.9 |
| Value for money | 8.7 |
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This is an expert commercial-grade ice maker machine that is capable of producing 265 pounds of ice over 24 hours. It also has a storage bin that is capable of producing 99 pounds of ice and an electric water drain pump. The appliance also has an LCD panel, stainless steel air cooling system, and comes with two ice scoops and connection hoses. It is also ETL approved for the rapid and efficient ice making process and features a powerful 510W compressor.
It offers a convenient and efficient ice-making process and chunks out 90 clear ice cubes in one cycle of 8-15 minutes in its 5*18 ice tray. The appliance chunks out cubical ice cubes that are great for chilling mixed drinks and for chilling water bottles. Its large storage capacity makes it ideal for mixed applications. As the appliance features a heat insulation function, it prevents the ice cubes from melting for at least 5-7 hours.
Its heavy-duty stainless steel and ABS construction have been built with a stainless steel finish. The machine has a sleek and hygienic finish and is known for its durability, longevity, and sturdiness. Being a freestanding ice maker, it can be installed anywhere in the bar, pub, or clubs. The appliance comes with a water filter and it has to be installed near the water outlet. The appliance has a two-inch leg to elevate it off the ground, to prevent it from moisture on the ground. It also has an advanced LED panel for completely automatic operation.
What do we like about the Vevor 110V 265LBS ice machine?
- Features an advanced multi-function automatic control panel with buttons.
- Completely automatic, simple, easy, and efficient operation.
- The large-capacity ice storage cabinets make it ideal for clubs, pubs, and bars.
- Comes with a complete set of accessories – water filter, ice scoop, water supply hose, water draining hose.
What do we don’t like about the Vevor 110V 265LBS ice machine?
- The appliance should not be put together with ovens and refrigerators
- Not suitable for outdoor use
#10. VEVOR 110V 110LBS Commercial Ice Maker – Alternative for Home Bars
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 8.6 |
| Easy to clean | 8.8 |
| Performance | 9.1 |
| Build quality | 8.7 |
| Noise level | 8.9 |
| Flavor | 9.1 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.9 |
| Value for money | 8.7 |
Check Price on Online Stores:
This is an excellent commercial ice maker with the capacity to produce about 110 pounds of ice in 24 hours. The appliance has a 30 lbs. bin, LED panel, stainless steel design, water filter, ice scoop, and connection hose. Thus it comes completely accessorized and is professional refrigeration equipment that is ideal for clubs, bars, pubs, and taverns. The appliance has a powerful compressor for an efficient and rapid ice-making process. It is equipped with a powerful 235W compressor, that helps in a convenient and efficient ice making process.
The appliance has a 5*8 ice tray that makes 40 clear ice cubes in one cycle, that lasts for 8 – 15 minutes. The ice cubes are cubical and are perfect for mixed drinks, bottles, and for cooling food. The appliance also has an 18 kg ice storage capacity for flexible applications. Its heat insulation function also prevents the ice cubes from melting for about 5-7 hours. The appliance is built with a long-lasting stainless steel design and has a sleek finish, thus featuring years of longevity, durability, and sturdiness.
These freestanding ice makers can be efficiently installed anywhere in the restaurant and club and it comes with a water filter to make sure that it chunks out pure and quality ice cubes from pure water. Its automatic LED control panel helps with easy operation and also shows different functions efficiently such as time and temperature display, size of ice cubes, intimates when the ice is ready, etc.
What do we like about the VEVOR 110V 110LBS ice maker?
- The Nano blue light and dry filter form clean and fresh ice for the business.
- The Nano blue light offers an aesthetic appeal to the ice maker in commercial establishments.
- Comes with a complete set of accessories.
- The appliance has a one-year warranty on the party and a two-year warranty on the compressor.
What do we don’t like about the VEVOR 110V 110LBS ice maker?
- Requires water drain near the appliance.
- Ice melts faster.
Must check: Best Ice Makers in the Market
Bottom Line
Restaurants, bars, and clubs should choose the right size of ice makers for their business depending on the quantum of ice makers they would require in a day. Choose an appliance with an ambient compressor set up that operates pretty quickly and without emitting much heat. Air-cooled machines are the best as they have efficient systems for the hot air to escape and are also energy-efficient and cost-efficient. We have listed the best ice makers for home bars, pubs, commercial bars, clubs, and taverns.
Hello Douglas,
Nicely listed. I am starting a mini bar in my town. I got approval and all but selecting appliances and furniture is a pain as I wanted my bar to look different. So, thanks for helping me out in choosing the best ice maker for my bar. Euhomy IM-02 does seem to suit my needs. Thanks again.
Hey Edward,
It’s always difficult to start something new, especially if it’s a bar or club. Euhomy IM-02 will perfectly fulfill your needs if you are opening a small bar in a small town. But in case you are expecting your bar to grow, I would suggest you choose Vevor ice maker that has 265 pounds daily ice making capacity. I will not only fulfill your current needs, but it will also cover your future needs as well provided that your bar will grow quickly. But in the end, it’s your choice. Do let me know if you have any questions. I will be happy to answer.
I am looking to buy the best commercial ice maker for home bar and I think Euhomy seems a good option.