Ever find yourself staring at your ice machine, dreading the chore of descaling it? That sticky residue and funky smell are enough to make anyone put off the task. Well, what if your appliance could handle that messy job itself? That’s the promise of a modern self cleaning ice maker, and it’s a game-changer for busy households. No more scrubbing or worrying about mineral buildup affecting your drinks taste.
We got our hands on one of these clever machines to see if it truly lives up to the hype. In this review, we’ll walk you through how the automatic clean cycle works, whether it actually saves you time, and if the ice it produces is as crisp and clear as promised. Let’s see if this convenience is worth the investment for your kitchen or home bar.
Product Comparison Table: 8 Best Self Cleaning Ice Maker
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Under…
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9.8 |
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Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Ice Machine…
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9.5 |
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VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 130Lbs/24H with 33Lbs Storage,…
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9.3 |
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VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100 lbs/24h with 28Lbs…
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9.0 |
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VEVOR 150lb/24h Commercial Ice Maker with 2 Water Inlets…
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8.8 |
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Erivess Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine Maker Self-Cleaning,…
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8.5 |
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Stopsad Commercial Ice Maker, 100lbs/24H with 20Lbs Storage, 36…
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8.3 |
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ecozy Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry…
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8.0 |
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Quick Review For Top 8 Self Cleaning Ice Maker
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Under Counter ice Machine with 33lbs Ice Storage Capacity, Freestanding Ice Maker.
The EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine is built for situations where you need a lot of ice, reliably. It’s a stainless steel under-counter unit that can also work freestanding, designed to handle demanding use in both homes and businesses.
Its core strength is high-volume production. This machine makes up to 100 pounds of ice every 24 hours. Each cycle produces 45 clear cubes in just 11 to 15 minutes.
You also get a sizable storage bin right inside the unit that holds 33 pounds of ice. This means you have a ready supply during busy times, and the automatic overflow prevention adds a layer of safety and peace of mind. It’s suited for large family gatherings, parties, or as a workhorse in a small commercial setting like a bar or cafe.
You can trust it’s built for the job. It’s ETL certified for commercial and household use, which speaks to its safety and durability standards.
The versatile design means it fits in many places—an outdoor kitchen for your BBQ, behind the counter in your coffee shop, or in a hotel pantry. It’s made to perform consistently wherever you put it.
Operation is straightforward thanks to the intuitive LCD control panel. From here, you can monitor the temperature and, importantly, adjust the ice-making time to change the cube thickness. Prefer thinner ice for soft drinks or thicker cubes that melt slower in whiskey? You can set that.
Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Ice Machine with 33lbs Storage Capacity, Auto Self-Cleaning Freestanding Ice Maker, Ice Machine Freestanding for Bar/Cafe/Restaurant
The Commercial Ice Maker Machine is built for places that need a lot of ice, reliably. If your bar, cafe, or restaurant goes through ice quickly, this freestanding unit is designed to keep up without a fuss. It’s a self-contained workhorse that focuses on making ice, storing it well, and simplifying upkeep, all in a durable stainless steel package.
At its core, this machine is about high-volume production. It’s rated to make up to 100 pounds of ice every 24 hours.
The rapid-fire system can produce a batch of about 48 clear cubes in as little as 12 to 18 minutes. This means you’re rarely caught short during a rush. It manages this output while operating quietly and with an eye on energy efficiency, so it won’t drastically inflate your utility bills.
Durability is key in a commercial setting. The entire housing is made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, made to handle the humid, busy environment of a kitchen or bar area.
It has a smart elevated base to protect against floor moisture. Its freestanding design requires no special plumbing for installation—you just need a power outlet and a water source to fill its internal tank. The compact footprint lets it fit into many spaces without getting in the way.
Making the ice is only half the story. This ice machine includes a 33-pound storage bin that’s well-insulated to slow down melting.
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 130Lbs/24H with 33Lbs Storage, 45 Cubes per Cycle, Stainless Steel Freestanding & Under Counter Ice Maker with LED Display & Self-Cleaning, for Home Bar Restaurant
The VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 130Lbs/24H with 33Lbs Storage, is built to handle consistent ice demand without taking up to much space. It’s a versatile unit designed for the serious home entertainer, the small bar owner, or a bustling restaurant kitchen that needs a reliable secondary source. With a daily production of 130 pounds and a storage bin that holds 33 pounds, you’re equipped to keep up with parties, service rushes, or daily family use without constantly running out.
Operation is straightforward. The intuitive LED display puts you in control with one-touch selection for thick or thin cubes, depending on your preference for slower melting or quicker cooling. A handy veiwing window with blue interior lighting lets you check ice levels and the machine’s status at a glance, so you never have to interrupt the cycle by opening the lid. This thoughtful design helps maintain efficiency and keeps everything running smoothly.
Maintenance is where this model really shines, saving you time and hassle. The self-cleaning function is activated with a simple press of the “Mode” button, initiating a thorough 20-minute rinse cycle. For deeper cleaning, the patented removable water tray is a game-changer; you can simply lift it out for a proper wash, ensuring no buildup affects your ice quality or the machine’s longevity. It’s a feature that makes regular upkeep much less of a chore.
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100 lbs/24h with 28Lbs Storage, 45 Cubes per Cycle, Stainless Steel Freestanding & Under Counter Ice Maker with LED Display & Self-Cleaning, for Home Bar Restaurant
The VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine is designed for anyone who needs a reliable supply of ice without the commercial-grade complexity. It’s a versatile unit that fits right into your daily routine, whether that’s at home, behind a bar, or in a small cafe.
Let’s start with its core job: making ice. This machine can produce up to 100 pounds of ice over a 24-hour period. Each cycle creates 45 cubes, and it can store up to 28 pounds of ice in its bin at a time.
That’s a substantial output for its size, meaning you’re less likely to run out during a gathering or a busy shift. It’s ETL and ENERGY STAR certified, which gives you confidence in its safety and energy efficiency right from the start.
Operating it is straightforward. The intuitive LED display puts control at your fingertips. You can choose between thick or thin cube settings with just a simple touch. A handy feature is the large viewing window with blue interior lighting.
This lets you check the ice level and see the process in action without having to lift the lid, which helps maintain the internal temperature and efficiency.
Maintenance is often a concern with ice makers, but VEVOR has simplified it. The self-cleaning function is a major plus. By holding the “Mode” button for three seconds, the machine initiates a 20-minute automatic rinse cycle. This helps prevent scale buildup and keeps your ice tasting fresh.
VEVOR 150lb/24h Commercial Ice Maker with 2 Water Inlets 45 Ice Cubes in 15 Minutes 33lb Capacity for Bar Office Restaurant with LED Digital Display and Self-Cleaning
The VEVOR 150lb/24h Commercial Ice Maker is a robust, compact machine built to handle consistent ice demand in busy settings. It’s designed for places like small restaurants, bars, offices, or even a high-use home kitchen where reliable ice production is non-negotiable.
With a stated production of up to 150 pounds of ice per day under ideal conditions, and a generous 33-pound storage bin, it aims to keep you stocked without taking up to much counter or floor space.
One of it’s standout features is the dual water inlet system. This flexibility allows you to connect it directly to a permanent water line for continuous operation or use the included water tank for portable placement wherever you need ice most.
The machine gets to work quickly, producing a batch of up to 45 bullet-shaped ice cubes in just 12 to 15 minutes. The ice thickness is adjustable, letting you choose between harder, longer-lasting cubes or faster production cycles for softer ice.
Operation is straightforward thanks to the smart LED digital display and control panel. You can monitor the machine’s status at a glance and adjust settings with simple mechanical buttons.
Erivess Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine Maker Self-Cleaning, 26Lbs/24H, 9 Bullet Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Scoop and Basket, for Home/Office/Kitchen
The Erivess Ice Makers Countertop is a portable ice machine designed to bring convenient, on-demand ice production to your space. Its compact footprint, measuring just 12.3 inches deep, 8.7 inches wide, and 12.6 inches high, means it fits easily on a countertop, bar cart, or office breakroom table without taking over. This size makes it incredibly versatile, perfect for not just your home kitchen, but also for small offices, dorm rooms, RV trips, or behind a bar at a small cafe.
You get professional-style ice making without needing a dedicated, built-in unit.
When you need ice, you need it fast. This machine delivers, producing its first batch of nine bullet-shaped ice cubes in about six to eight minutes. Over a full day, it can make up to 26 pounds of ice, keeping up with a steady flow of guests or your family’s daily needs. The cooling system is designed to be efficient and notably quiet, so it won’t disrupt conversations or your peace while it works.
You can choose between two sizes of those bullet-shaped cubes—small or large—to suit different drinks. Whether your cooling a soda, a cocktail, or a water bottle, you can pick the cube that melts at the rate you prefer.
Operation is straightforward. The clear indicator lights on the front panel tell you everything you need to know: when the machine is on, when the ice basket is full, and crucially, when the water reservoir needs a refill.
Stopsad Commercial Ice Maker, 100lbs/24H with 20Lbs Storage, 36 Cubes in 11Mins, Stainless Steel Freestanding & Under Counter Large Ice Machine with LCD Display, Self-Cleaning for Home Bar Restaurant
The Stopsad Commercial Ice Maker is built to handle high-demand environments where a reliable ice supply is essential. It combines rapid production with substantial storage, making it a practical centerpiece for any busy service area. With a output of 100 pounds of ice every 24 hours, it’s designed to keep pace with continuous use throughout the day. You can have a batch of 36 clear ice cubes ready in just 11 minutes, which is crucial during peak hours when you can’t afford to wait.
Its 20-pound storage bin means you can accumulate a solid reserve, ensuring ice is always on hand for your customers or guests. This capacity is well-suited for events, a bustling bar counter, or a restaurant’s drink station. The unit operates with a focus on efficiency, utilizing a reliable compressor that keeps noise and energy consumption down, which is a considerate feature for any workspace. Operation is straightforward thanks to the clear LCD display and intuitive control panel.
You can easily monitor the machine’s status, whether it’s making ice or needs water. Adjusting the cycle time or the thickness of the ice cubes is simple—just use the plus or minus buttons to get it just right for your needs. This level of control lets you fine-tune performance based on how much ice you’re using that day. Maintenance is significantly simplified with the self-cleaning function.
ecozy Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV
The ecosy Ice Makers Countertop is a portable ice machine designed to put fresh ice on demand right at your fingertips. It’s built for situations where you need ice fast and reliably, without the hassle of traditional trays or a bulky appliance. Whether you’re filling a cooler for a camping trip, hosting friends in your kitchen, or stocking the mini-fridge in your RV, this unit aims to be a simple solution.
One of it’s core features is speed.
You can have a batch of nine bullet-shaped ice cubes ready in about six minutes. Over a full day, it can produce up to 26 pounds of ice. That means you’re unlikely to run out during a gathering, and you won’t have to wait long to cool down a drink when the urge strikes. The machine also gives you a choice between two cube sizes.
You can select smaller cubes that chill drinks quickly for things like soda or iced coffee, or opt for the larger size which melts slower, better suited for spirits or keeping a cooler cold.
Maintenance is a common concern with any appliance, and the ecosy adresses this with an auto-cleaning function. A single button initiates a cycle that helps clean the internal components, which is meant to reduce mineral buildup and keep your ice tasting fresh.
Self Cleaning Ice Maker Buying Guide
Imagine never having to scrub out a slimy ice bin again. A self cleaning ice maker automates that chore, using a heating element or a cleaning cycle to dissolve mineral buildup and keep things sanitary. It’s a real game-changer for convenience. When you’re looking for one, a few key factors will help you find the perfect match for your home.
Daily Ice Production
How much ice do you actually go through? Check the pounds-per-day rating. A smaller model making 20-30 lbs might be fine for a couple, but for frequent entertainers or a big family, you’ll want 40 lbs or more. Remember, the listed output is often in ideal lab conditions; real-world use might be a bit less.
Ice Cube Shape and Texture
Not all ice is created equal. Do you prefer classic bullet-shaped cubes for drinks, or slower-melting crescent shapes? Some machines even make chewable nugget ice, which is super popular. Think about what you’ll use it for most—whiskey on the rocks verses filling a cooler are very different needs.
Bin Storage Capacity
The production rate tells you how fast it makes ice, but the bin capacity tells you how much it can hold at once. A machine with a large bin means you can stockpile ice before a party. There’s no point in a high-production machine if the bin is tiny and overflows constantly.
Water Source and Drainage
Most countertop models need you to manually fill a reservoir, which is simple but requires refills. For a permanent under-counter installation, you’ll want a model that hooks directly to your water line. Also, many self-cleaning functions require a drain hose to flush out the dirty water, so check your setup.
Noise Level During Operation
These machines aren’t silent. If you plan to keep it in your main living area or open kitchen, look for one advertised as quiet or with a low decibel rating. The grinding sound of making nugget ice, for instance, is louder than a standard cube maker. It’s worth considering where it will live.
Frequently Asked Questions About Self Cleaning Ice Maker
What is a self-cleaning ice maker?
It’s a countertop appliance that makes ice and cleans itself. You add water, and it freezes it into cubes. The self-cleaning function uses a rinse cycle to wash away mineral buildup and keep the inside fresh.
How does the self-cleaning feature work?
You typically press a dedicated button to start the cycle. The machine will run water through its internal system, like the water tank and ice-making components. This helps dissolve and flush away scale and residue. The whole process is automatic and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Do I still need to clean it manually?
Yes, but much less often. The self-clean cycle handles daily mineral deposits. You should still occasionally wipe down the exterior and the removable parts, like the ice basket. Always check your manual for specific care instructions.
What kind of water should I use?
Using filtered or distilled water is best. It reduces mineral content, which means less scaling and a cleaner machine. Your ice will also taste better. If you use tap water, you might need to run the cleaning cycle more frequently.
How often should I run the self-cleaning cycle?
It depends on your water hardness and how much you use it. A good rule of thumb is about every two weeks for regular use. If your water is very hard, you might want to do it weekly. The machine may even have a reminder light to help you.
Are these machines loud?
They make some noise, similar to a small fan or a quiet compressor. The cleaning cycle might have a gentle pumping sound. It’s usually not disruptive, but it’s good to be aware of if your placing it in a quiet room.
Can it make different ice shapes?
Most models make one shape, usually a bullet-style cube. Some higher-end options might offer two sizes. If you need gourmet ice, you’ll want to check the product specifications before you buy to see what’s available.
Is it worth the extra cost?
For many people, yes. The convenience is a big plus. It saves you the time and hassle of descaling manually. It also helps ensure your ice is hygienic and tastes good, which is important for daily use.
Final Thoughts
So, is an ice maker right for your home? It really comes down to how much ice you use. If you’re constantly refilling trays or running out, it can be a real help. It saves you time and gives you a steady supply. You won’t have to think about it much after you set it up.
Just remember to look for features that fit your routine. A good self cleaning ice maker is a smart choice for most people. It handles the maintenance for you, which is a huge plus. That way, you can just enjoy the convenience without the extra chore. It’s a simple way to make your day a little bit easier.