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Shop Ice Makers by Ice Type
Built-In Ice Makers
✅ Every model includes: a built-in storage bin (no separate bin to buy), air-cooled R290 efficiency, 115V standard household power, NSF & ETL (cETLus) listing, AISI 304 stainless steel build, and a warranty of 3 years parts & labor on the ice maker, 5 years on the evaporator, and 5 years on the compressor.

Quick Buying Guide
Use this 60-second overview to narrow your choice before reading the detailed sections.
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Ice production. Estimate peak daily use and add ~20%. This lineup spans 77–340 lb/day — most homes do well at 80–160 lb/day; busy bars, vacation rentals, and light-commercial sites lean toward 220–340 lb/day.
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Storage capacity. Built-in bins here range from 33 to 99 lb. Bin size caps how much ice is ready at once, so match it to your peak serving moment, not just daily output.
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Installation type. All are front-venting undercounter machines designed to sit flush under a ~34–36" counter or freestanding. Front venting is what makes a true built-in (zero side clearance) installation possible.
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Indoor vs. outdoor. These ITV models are built for indoor installation. For covered patios and outdoor kitchens, see our Outdoor Ice Makers — outdoor use requires an outdoor-rated unit.
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Drain requirements. These use a gravity drain (the floor drain sits below the unit). If your drain is above the machine or far away, ask us about a drain pump option.
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Clear ice vs. dice vs. nugget. Choose DELTA NG clear gourmet cube for premium, slow-melting clear ice (cocktails, luxury bars); SPIKA full/half dice for fast, high-volume everyday ice. Want chewable nugget ice? See Commercial Nugget Ice Machines.
🧊 Best for most buyers: the SPIKA NG 130 A1F (21", 134 lb/day) for everyday volume, or the DELTA NG 120 (18", clear cube) if you want showpiece clear ice for entertaining.
Best Built In Ice Makers (Our Expert Picks)
Which model wins for each priority — so you can match your situation to a specific machine fast.
|
Category |
Our Pick |
Why |
|
🏆 Best Overall |
21" footprint, strong 159 lb/day output, full-dice ice that suits kitchens and bars alike. |
|
|
🥃 Best for Luxury / Clear Ice |
Crystal-clear gourmet cubes for cocktails and high-end entertaining in an 18" cabinet. |
|
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💲 Best Value |
Lowest entry price with everyday-ample 134 lb/day output. |
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👑 Premium Pick |
340 lb/day, 99 lb bin — the highest capacity for busy bars and light commercial use. |
|
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🏠 Best Compact (small space) |
16" wide, clear cube, ideal for tight home bars and offices. |
|
|
🌿 Best Energy Profile |
Low-GWP R290 plus ENERGY STAR-listed efficiency on select ITV models. |
💡 Quick read: Want clear, slow-melting "cocktail" ice? Go DELTA NG. Want maximum everyday ice per dollar? Go SPIKA NG. Tight space → DELTA NG 80 (16"); big demand → SPIKA NG 360 (30").
Who Should Buy Each Type?
ITV DELTA NG — Crystal-Clear Gourmet Cube (Clear Ice Line)
✓ Ideal for
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Luxury home bars, cocktail lounges, and whiskey enthusiasts
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Designers and remodelers specifying a showpiece kitchen or island
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Hotels, suites, and upscale entertaining spaces
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Anyone who wants slow-melting, crystal-clear ice that won't dilute drinks
✗ Not the best fit for
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High-volume operations that prioritize raw output over ice clarity (choose SPIKA)
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Buyers needing chewable nugget ice (see the nugget collection)
ITV SPIKA NG — Full-Dice & Half-Dice Cube (Everyday Volume Line)
✓ Ideal for
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Home kitchens, family entertaining, and vacation homes / Airbnbs
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Restaurant bars, coffee shops, offices, and healthcare offices
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Light-commercial sites needing 130–340 lb/day reliably
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Buyers who want the most ice per dollar (half-dice fills glasses and coolers fast; full-dice melts a bit slower)
✗ Not the best fit for
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Pure cocktail presentation where clarity matters most (choose DELTA NG)
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Outdoor installation (choose an outdoor-rated unit)
What Is a Built-In Ice Maker?
A built-in ice maker is a dedicated undercounter appliance that produces and stores ice automatically, plumbed to a water line and installed to sit flush within cabinetry, an island, or a bar run.
Purpose. It gives you a permanent, high-capacity ice source — far beyond an ice tray, a fridge dispenser, or a portable countertop unit — for daily life, entertaining, or service.
How it works. Water flows over a chilled evaporator where ice forms, the machine harvests it into a built-in insulated bin, and a sensor stops production when the bin is full. Air-cooled models like the ITV DELTA/SPIKA reject heat through a front vent, which is why they install with no side clearance.
Vs. countertop models. Countertop "portable" units make small batches, hold little ice, melt fast (no real insulation), and sit on your counter. A built-in produces far more, stores more, runs quieter, and disappears into the room.
Vs. refrigerator ice makers. A fridge ice maker shares space and compressor duty with food storage, makes limited ice slowly, and can't keep up with entertaining. A dedicated built-in makes pounds of ice per day and stores it ready to serve.
Who should buy one? Homeowners who entertain, luxury and outdoor kitchens, bars, vacation rentals, offices, and light-commercial sites that have outgrown trays, bags, or a fridge dispenser.

Benefits of Built-In Ice Makers
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Convenience. Plumbed-in and automatic — ice is always made and waiting, with no trays or store-bought bags.
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Luxury appearance. Flush, integrated stainless installation reads as a true built-in appliance, elevating a kitchen, island, or bar.
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Always-available ice. A large insulated bin holds pounds of ice ready to serve the moment guests arrive.
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Higher production. Tens to hundreds of pounds per day — orders of magnitude beyond countertop or fridge units.
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Quieter operation. Insulated cabinets and refined commercial-grade components run noticeably quieter than portable machines.
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Better insulation. Foamed bins slow melt, so ice lasts, reducing waste and refills.
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Premium aesthetics. Stainless fronts, clean lines, and (on the DELTA line) crystal-clear gourmet ice make a visible statement.
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Faster entertaining. No mid-party scramble for ice — capacity and storage are sized for hosting.
📌 Summary: A built-in ice maker trades the limits of trays, bags, and fridge dispensers for high output, ready storage, quiet operation, and a luxury, integrated look.
Best Built-In Ice Makers by Use Case
Home Kitchen
A 16–21" undercounter machine adds hosting-level ice without crowding the fridge. The SPIKA NG 130/160 (full or half dice) covers everyday family and entertaining needs; the DELTA NG 120 adds a clear-ice wow factor.
Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor installs need an outdoor-rated unit built to handle ambient heat and moisture. The ITV DELTA/SPIKA models here are indoor-rated, so for patios and grilling stations, see our Outdoor Ice Makers — we'll match you to the right outdoor build.
Luxury Home Bar
Clarity is the star. The DELTA NG clear gourmet cube is made for cocktails, whiskey, and presentation; the DELTA NG 150 (21", 143 lb/day) keeps a busy bar stocked.
Office / Break Room
Reliable, low-maintenance ice for staff and guests. A SPIKA NG 130 A1H (half dice) fills cups and water stations fast in a compact 21" footprint.
Restaurant Bar
Light-commercial bars need volume and uptime. The SPIKA NG 230 (26", 223 lb/day) or SPIKA NG 360 (30", 340 lb/day) keep service moving; for full-scale kitchens, compare our Commercial Ice Machines.
Coffee Shop
Iced drinks demand steady output. An SPIKA NG 160/230 balances footprint and capacity; half-dice ice blends and packs cups efficiently.
Vacation Home
Set-and-forget reliability for guests. A mid-size SPIKA NG 130/160 delivers ample ice with a built-in bin, so there's always a supply ready.
Airbnb / Short-Term Rental
A clean, integrated built-in signals a premium stay and prevents the "no ice" complaint. A compact DELTA NG 80/120 or SPIKA NG 130 fits most rental kitchens and bars.
Hotel Suite
Discreet, quiet, and premium. The DELTA NG clear-ice line suits in-suite bars and hospitality presentation.
Healthcare Office
For staff break rooms and patient areas, a quiet, NSF-listed SPIKA NG undercounter unit provides dependable ice. (For clinical-grade ice needs, see our Healthcare Ice Machines.)
Types of Built-In Ice Makers
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Clear ice makers. Produce slow-melting, near-transparent ice prized for cocktails and presentation. In this collection: the ITV DELTA NG crystal-clear gourmet cube line.
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Cube ice makers. The everyday workhorse — solid cubes for general use. Here: ITV SPIKA NG full-dice and half-dice.
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Nugget ice makers. Soft, chewable "pebble" ice is popular for beverages and healthcare. Not in this collection — see Commercial Nugget Ice Machines.
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Gourmet ice makers. Premium clear cube/octagon ice for upscale drinks. Here: the DELTA NG gourmet cube.
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Panel-ready models. Accept a custom cabinet panel to match the surrounding millwork for a fully hidden look. The ITV models here ship with stainless fronts; ask us about panel-ready options.
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Stainless steel models. Durable, fingerprint-friendly stainless fronts — the standard finish across this lineup.
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Outdoor-rated models. Sealed and built for ambient heat/moisture. See Outdoor Ice Makers; the DELTA/SPIKA are indoor-rated.
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Drain-pump models. Add a pump to push the drain water upward when there's no gravity drain below. Available as an option — contact us to configure.
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Gravity-drain models. Drain by gravity to a floor drain below the unit — the standard setup for the ITV DELTA/SPIKA line.
🔎 Expert tip: "Clear/gourmet" vs "dice" is about ice quality and melt, while "panel-ready vs stainless," "indoor vs outdoor," and "gravity vs pump drain" are about installation. Decide ice type first, then fit it to your space.
Built-In vs. Countertop Ice Makers
|
Factor |
Built-In Ice Maker |
Countertop / Portable |
|
Capacity |
High (77–340+ lb/day) |
Low (often 20–40 lb/day, tiny storage) |
|
Appearance |
Flush, integrated, luxury |
Sits on the counter; the appliance looks |
|
Noise |
Quieter (insulated cabinet) |
Louder (compact, less insulation) |
|
Installation |
Plumbed + drained, fixed |
Plug-in, manual water fill |
|
Ice quality |
Clear gourmet or solid dice |
Often hollow/soft, fast-melting |
|
Maintenance |
Filtered water + scheduled cleaning |
Frequent emptying, manual cleaning |
|
Price |
Higher upfront, long-term value |
Low upfront, limited lifespan |
|
Best uses |
Homes, bars, rentals, light commercial |
Dorms, RVs, temporary/occasional use |
Recommendation: If you entertain, run a bar, or need dependable daily ice, a built-in pays off in capacity, quiet, and looks. Countertop units suit only occasional, low-volume, no-plumbing situations.
Built-In vs. Refrigerator Ice Maker
|
Factor |
Built-In Ice Maker |
Refrigerator Ice Maker |
|
Production capacity |
Pounds per day (dedicated) |
Limited; shares compressor with cooling |
|
Storage |
Large dedicated insulated bin |
Small indoor bin |
|
Speed |
Fast, continuous harvest |
Slow batch cycles |
|
Reliability under demand |
Built for entertaining/service |
Struggles to keep up |
|
Ice quality |
Clear gourmet or uniform dice |
Crescents/cubes, variable |
|
Entertainment benefits |
Sized for hosting and bars |
Every day personal use only |
Recommendation: A fridge ice maker is fine for a household's daily cubes. The moment you entertain or serve, a dedicated built-in is the upgrade — it won't run dry, and it keeps your refrigerator's capacity for food.
How to Choose the Right Built-In Ice Maker
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15-inch vs. 24-inch (and in between). 15" is the classic compact slot; 24" is the standard full-size cabinet opening. ITV's lineup fits common openings at 16", 18", 21", 26", and 30" — measure your cabinet width, height (~34"+), and depth before choosing, and confirm the door swing clears.
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Ice production. Match rated lb/day to your peak day plus ~20%. Remember, output drops in hot rooms and with warm incoming water.
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Storage bin size. Bin capacity (33–99 lb here) sets how much ice is ready at once. For party/service peaks, prioritize a larger bin.
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Drain pump vs. gravity drain. Gravity drain is standard and simplest when a floor drain sits below. Choose/add a drain pump when the drain is higher than the unit or runs far away.
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Outdoor rating. Only install an outdoor-rated unit outdoors. Indoor units (this lineup) belong in conditioned spaces under ~109°F ambient.
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Indoor installation. Confirm the room stays cool with airflow to the front vent — heat starves an air-cooled machine of capacity.
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Front ventilation. Front-venting design enables zero-clearance, flush built-in installation — the whole point of a true built-in.
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Reversible doors. A reversible/field-adjustable door helps fit tight layouts and corners; confirm on the spec sheet.
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Panel-ready vs. stainless. Stainless is the default here; panel-ready hides the unit behind cabinetry — ask us if you need it.
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Energy efficiency. Look for ENERGY STAR (listed on select ITV models) and low-GWP R290 refrigerant to cut running costs.
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Noise levels. All run quieter than countertop units; for bedrooms/suites, place them thoughtfully and keep the condenser clean.
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Water filtration. Add a filter to reduce scale and chlorine — it improves ice clarity and extends machine life, especially in hard water.
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Future household needs. Buy a touch more capacity than today's need if you're remodeling or plan to entertain more.
✅ Buyer's checklist: cabinet width/height/depth measured → peak lbs/day + 20% → bin size for peaks → ice type (clear vs dice) → gravity vs pump drain → indoor vs outdoor → water line + filter → confirmed 115V outlet. All eight? You're ready to order.

Built-In Ice Maker Decision Flowchart
Where will it be installed?
│
├── OUTDOORS / covered patio ──► You need an OUTDOOR-RATED unit
│ → See Outdoor Ice Makers
│
└── INDOORS ──► Continue.
What ice matters most?
│
├── Clear, slow-melting "cocktail" ice ──► ITV DELTA NG (gourmet clear cube)
│ └── Tight space (16")? → DELTA NG 80 | More output? → DELTA NG 120 / 150
│
├── Chewable nugget/pebble ice ──► See Nugget Ice Machines
│
└── Maximum everyday ice ──► ITV SPIKA NG (full or half dice)
│
├── ~130–160 lb/day (home/office/bar) → SPIKA NG 130 / 160 (21")
├── ~223 lb/day (busy bar) → SPIKA NG 230 (26")
└── ~340 lb/day (light commercial) → SPIKA NG 360 (30")
Drain below the unit?
├── YES → Gravity drain (standard)
└── NO → Add a drain pump → /pages/contact
🧭 Shortcut: Indoors + clarity → DELTA NG. Indoors + volume → SPIKA NG sized to your peak day. Outdoors → outdoor-rated unit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Measuring wrong (or not at all). Built-ins need an exact cabinet opening (width, height ~34"+, depth) plus door-swing clearance. Measure twice before ordering.
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Buying too little capacity. Rated output assumes mild conditions; entertaining spikes demand. Size to your peak day plus ~20%, and weigh bin size for serving peaks.
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Ignoring the drain plan. No gravity drain below the unit? You need a drain pump. Discover this before install day, not during it.
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Installing an indoor unit outdoors. Outdoor heat and moisture will damage an indoor-rated machine and void coverage — use an outdoor-rated model outside.
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Starving the front vent. Even front-venting units need airflow and a cool room. Boxing one into a hot, sealed cavity cuts production and shortens life.
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Skipping water filtration. Hard or chlorinated water clouds ice and builds scale that throttles output. A filter is inexpensive insurance.
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Forgetting maintenance from day one. Plan descaling, sanitizing, and filter changes up front to protect both ice quality and the warranty.
⚠️ The expensive lesson: Most "this machine underperforms" complaints trace back to a hot/sealed cabinet, hard water, undersizing, or a drain mismatch — not the machine. Spec and install it right and a quality built-in runs for years.
Production & Sizing Guide
Rated output assumes mild ambient and water temps; real output is lower in hot rooms or with warm supply water. Size to peak demand.
|
Daily Production |
Typical Need |
Example Settings |
ITV Match |
|
~75–110 lb/day |
Light |
Home bar, office, small kitchen, Airbnb |
DELTA NG 80 / 120 |
|
~130–160 lb/day |
Medium |
Family kitchen, vacation home, café, small bar |
SPIKA NG 130 / 160; DELTA NG 150 |
|
~220 lb/day |
Heavy |
Busy restaurant bar, coffee shop |
SPIKA NG 230 (26") |
|
~340 lb/day |
Very heavy |
High-volume bar, light commercial |
SPIKA NG 360 (30") |
|
400+ lb/day |
Commercial |
Full kitchens, high-traffic service |
See Commercial Ice Machines |
💡 Rule of thumb: Bars and entertaining consume far more ice per guest than you expect (1–2+ lbs per person at events). When in doubt, size up — running out mid-party is the regret we hear most.
Installation Guide
Professional installation by a licensed plumber/electrician is recommended and helps protect your warranty.
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Cabinet dimensions. Measure the opening: width (16/18/21/26/30" depending on model), height (typically ~34"+), and depth, plus clearance for the door swing. Front-venting design allows flush, zero-side-clearance installation.
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Ventilation. Keep the front grille unobstructed and the room cool (under ~109°F ambient). Air-cooled units pull air in and exhaust heat at the front.
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Electrical. A dedicated 115V / 60Hz grounded outlet on its own circuit (per the spec sheet and local code). Avoid extension cords.
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Water supply. A cold potable water line within the unit's pressure range (about 14.5–87 psi) with a shutoff valve; add a water filter for clarity and scale control.
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Drain requirements. A gravity drain to a floor drain below the unit with a proper air gap per local plumbing code. If no gravity drain is available, install a drain pump.
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Outdoor installation. Do not install an indoor-rated unit outdoors. For outdoor kitchens, use an outdoor-rated machine and follow GFCI and weather-protection requirements.
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Professional installation. Use licensed trades for water, drain, and electrical connections and final leveling; correct startup protects performance and coverage.
🔧 Pro tip: Confirm three things before delivery — exact cabinet opening, a cool well-ventilated location, and your drain method (gravity vs. pump). Sorting these in advance prevents 90% of install-day surprises.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Consistent maintenance is the biggest factor in ice quality, efficiency, and lifespan. Follow your manual alongside this schedule.
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Daily: Wipe the exterior and bin door; confirm ice quality; check for leaks or odd noise.
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Weekly: Clean the bin interior; verify the drain flows freely; check the water-filter indicator.
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Monthly: Clear the front-vent condenser of dust and lint (a clogged condenser kills production); inspect water lines.
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Descaling (quarterly, or per water hardness): Descale the water system with an approved cleaner (e.g., Scale Kleen) to remove mineral scale — more often in hard-water areas.
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Water filters: Replace cartridges on schedule (ITV offers anti-limescale/anti-chlorine filters and a water softener option) to protect clarity and components.
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Sanitization: Sanitize ice-contact surfaces and the bin on the same cadence to keep ice food-safe.
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Extending lifespan: Filtered water + a clean condenser + on-schedule descaling is how a quality machine reaches and exceeds its 5-year compressor/evaporator coverage.
🧽 Why it matters: Scale and a dusty condenser quietly cut output, raise energy use, and cloud your ice. Ten minutes of monthly upkeep keeps the machine producing clear, fast ice for years.
Common Problems & Troubleshooting
|
Symptom |
Likely Cause |
What to Do |
|
No ice / low production |
Dirty condenser, hot room, water off/low, full-bin sensor |
Clean front vent, cool the room, check water supply, and bin sensor |
|
Small or thin cubes |
Low water pressure, scale, and filter clogged |
Check pressure, descale, replace filter |
|
Cloudy ice |
Hard water/minerals, no filtration |
Add or replace a water filter; descale |
|
Water leaks |
Loose fittings, blocked drain, no air gap |
Check inlet/drain connections; clear the drain; verify air gap |
|
Drain pump issues |
Clogged pump, airlock, power |
Clean the pump reservoir; confirm power; call service if persistent |
|
Scale buildup |
Hard water, missed descaling |
Install anti-scale filtration; descale on schedule |
|
Ice sticking / clumping |
Warm bin, infrequent use, drain backup |
Improve room cooling; clear drain; use ice regularly |
|
Noisy operation |
Loose panel, debris, fan/condenser |
Tighten panels, clear vent; if internal, call service |
When to contact service: persistent low production after cleaning, refrigerant concerns, electrical faults, repeated leaks, or anything under warranty. Don't open sealed refrigeration components yourself — it can void coverage. We can connect you with warranty support and parts.

Why Buy From IceMakerSupply
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Manufacturer-backed products. Genuine ITV machines with full factory warranties (3-yr parts & labor, 5-yr evaporator, 5-yr compressor).
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Fast US shipping. Quick, reliable delivery across the United States.
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Competitive pricing. Strong value on commercial-grade equipment, with current promotional pricing across the built-in lineup.
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Expert recommendations. Real specialists help you match model, size, ice type, and drain setup to your space.
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Premium brands. Curated, commercial-grade equipment — not disposable countertop units.
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Warranty assistance. We help you register coverage and connect with the service.
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Customer support. Real people before and after the sale.
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Commercial and residential expertise. We serve homeowners, designers, builders, bars, rentals, offices, and light-commercial buyers alike.
🤝 Trusted by U.S. buyers: genuine equipment, real warranties, secure checkout, and people who know ice machines inside out.
Why U.S. Buyers Trust IceMakerSupply
Expert product consultation · Genuine OEM equipment · Manufacturer warranties · Sizing & selection help · Fast nationwide shipping · Secure checkout (Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Shop Pay, major cards) · Dedicated support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a built-in ice maker?
A built-in ice maker is a permanently installed undercounter appliance that automatically makes and stores ice, plumbed to a water line and fitted flush into cabinetry, an island, or a bar. It produces far more ice than a countertop unit or refrigerator dispenser and stores it in an insulated bin, ready to serve.
Do built-in ice makers need plumbing?
Yes. Built-in ice makers connect to a cold water line to make ice and require a drain to remove melt and overflow water. Most use a gravity drain to a floor drain below the unit; where that isn't possible, a drain pump moves water upward. Professional plumbing installation is recommended.
Can a built-in ice maker be used outdoors?
Only if it's specifically outdoor-rated. Outdoor units are sealed and built to handle ambient heat and moisture. Indoor-rated models — including the ITV DELTA and SPIKA machines here — should be installed in conditioned indoor spaces. For patios and outdoor kitchens, choose an outdoor-rated unit from our Outdoor Ice Makers collection.
How much ice do built-in ice makers produce?
It varies by model. The machines in this collection produce roughly 77 to 340 pounds per day. Most homes do well with 80–160 lb/day, while busy bars, vacation rentals, and light-commercial sites benefit from 220–340 lb/day. Rated output assumes mild room and water temperatures.
Do built-in ice makers require a drain?
Yes. They need a drain to handle melt water and overflow. The standard setup is a gravity drain to a floor drain located below the machine. If your drain is above or far from the unit, a drain pump is used to push water to the drain line. Plan your drain method before installation.
What is a drain pump?
A drain pump is a small pump that moves the ice maker's drain water upward or over a distance when a gravity drain isn't available below the unit. It lets you install a built-in where the floor drain is higher than the machine. Many undercounter installs use gravity drain; add a pump only when needed.
How often should a built-in ice maker be cleaned?
Wipe it down and check ice daily, clean the bin weekly, clear the front-vent condenser monthly, and descale and sanitize quarterly (more often in hard water). Replace water filters on schedule. Regular cleaning keeps ice clear and food-safe, maintains output, and extends the machine's life.
Are built-in ice makers worth it?
For anyone who entertains, runs a bar, or needs dependable daily ice, yes. They produce and store far more ice than countertop or refrigerator units, run quieter, look integrated and premium, and won't run dry mid-event. The upfront cost is offset by capacity, durability, and convenience over many years.
Which is better: clear ice or nugget ice?
Neither is universally better — it depends on use. Clear (gourmet cube) ice is slow-melting and elegant, ideal for cocktails and presentation. Nugget ice is soft and chewable, popular for sodas and healthcare. This collection offers clear gourmet cube (DELTA NG) and dice cube (SPIKA NG); see our nugget collection for chewable ice.
What size built-in ice maker do I need?
Match the cabinet opening and your peak daily ice use. Measure width (common openings are 15"–24"; ITV offers 16"–30"), height (~34"+), and depth. Then size capacity to your busiest day plus about 20%. Compact spaces suit a 16–18" unit; kitchens and bars often fit 21", with 26–30" for high demand.
What's the difference between a built-in and a countertop ice maker?
A built-in is plumbed in, installs flush under a counter, makes 77–340+ lb/day, stores ice in an insulated bin, and runs quietly. A countertop unit plugs in, is filled manually, makes small batches, holds little, and melts quickly. Built-ins are for homes, bars, and service; countertop units suit occasional, low-volume use.
Is a built-in ice maker better than my refrigerator's ice maker?
For volume and entertaining, yes. A fridge ice maker shares the compressor with food cooling, makes ice slowly, and stores only a little. A dedicated built-in makes pounds of ice per day, stores it ready to serve, and frees up refrigerator capacity. Many homes keep both for different needs.
What is clear (gourmet) ice and why does it matter?
Clear gourmet ice is dense, near-transparent cube ice that melts slowly and looks premium in a glass. It's prized for cocktails, whiskey, and upscale presentation because it dilutes drinks less and resists clouding. The ITV DELTA NG line in this collection produces crystal-clear gourmet cubes.
What's the difference between full-dice and half-dice ice?
Both are solid cube ice. Full-dice cubes are larger and melt a bit slower — great for mixed drinks and longer-lasting cooling. Half-dice cubes are smaller, pack glasses and coolers more densely, and are versatile for water, soda, and high-volume service. ITV's SPIKA NG line offers both (A1F = full, A1H = half).
Do built-in ice makers come with a storage bin?
The models in this collection have a built-in insulated storage bin (33–99 lb depending on model), so there's no separate bin to buy. This differs from modular commercial heads, which require a separate bin. Match bin size to your peak serving moment, not just daily production.
Can I install a built-in ice maker myself?
Some handy owners can, but professional installation by a licensed plumber and electrician is recommended. Correct water connection, drain (gravity or pump), leveling, ventilation, and a dedicated 115V circuit matter for performance and warranty. Improper installation is a common cause of leaks and poor production.
How much clearance does a built-in ice maker need?
Front-venting models install with no side or rear clearance, which is what allows a true flush, built-in look. You still need the correct cabinet opening dimensions, an unobstructed front grille for airflow, and door-swing clearance. Always follow the model's spec sheet for exact requirements.
What refrigerant do these ice makers use?
The ITV DELTA and SPIKA machines in this collection use R290, a low-GWP natural refrigerant that's energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. It's factory-charged and sealed; any refrigerant service should be performed by a qualified technician. R290's efficiency helps lower running costs.
Are these built-in ice makers energy efficient?
Yes. They use energy-efficient evaporators and low-GWP R290 refrigerant, and select ITV models are ENERGY STAR listed. Real-world efficiency also depends on a clean condenser, good water quality, and a cool installation space. Keeping the front vent clear is one of the easiest ways to maintain efficiency.
Do built-in ice makers need a water filter?
A filter isn't strictly required but is strongly recommended, especially with hard or chlorinated water. It improves ice clarity, reduces scale that throttles production, and extends component life. ITV offers anti-limescale and anti-chlorine filter options plus a water softener accessory for tough water.
What certifications should a built-in ice maker have?
Look for NSF certification (sanitation for ice that contacts food/beverages) and a recognized safety listing such as ETL/cETLus or UL. The ITV models in this collection are NSF and ETL (cETLus) listed, and select models carry ENERGY STAR. Certifications also help satisfy inspectors for light-commercial installs.
How long do built-in ice makers last?
With filtered water, a clean condenser, and regular descaling, a quality built-in commonly lasts 8–12+ years. ITV backs the evaporator and compressor for 5 years and the ice maker for 3 years parts and labor. Water quality and maintenance are the biggest factors in lifespan.
Why is my built-in ice maker making cloudy ice?
Cloudy ice usually comes from dissolved minerals in hard water or a lack of filtration. Add or replace a water filter, descale the machine, and check water quality. For the clearest ice, the DELTA NG gourmet line plus good filtration produces dense, near-transparent cubes.
Why isn't my built-in ice maker making ice?
Common causes are a dirty front-vent condenser, a hot installation space, the water supply being off or low, or a full-bin sensor reading full. Clean the condenser, cool the room, confirm the water valve is open and at pressure, and check the bin. If it persists, contact service.
Can a built-in ice maker be used in an outdoor kitchen?
Only with an outdoor-rated model. Outdoor kitchens expose equipment to heat, humidity, and weather that indoor-rated units aren't sealed against. Installing an indoor unit outside risks failure and voids coverage. See our Outdoor Ice Makers collection for units engineered for patios and outdoor bars.
Are built-in ice makers noisy?
They're noticeably quieter than countertop units thanks to insulated cabinets and refined components, but they're not silent — you'll hear the compressor cycle and ice drop into the bin. For bedrooms or quiet suites, plan placement and keep the condenser clean to minimize noise.
Is a 15-inch or 24-inch built-in ice maker better?
It depends on space and demand. A 15" (or ITV's 16") unit fits tight bars and small kitchens with modest output. A 24"-class opening (ITV offers 21", 26", 30") supports higher production and larger bins for entertaining and service. Measure your cabinet opening, then size capacity to your peak day.
Where can I buy built-in ice makers in the US?
IceMakerSupply stocks ITV built-in undercounter ice makers for U.S. buyers, with fast domestic shipping, manufacturer warranties, and expert sizing help. Browse the collection above or contact our equipment team for a personalized recommendation based on your space, ice type, and volume.
People Also Ask
Why are built-in ice makers so expensive?
You're paying for a commercial-grade, plumbed-in appliance — an insulated cabinet, efficient compressor and evaporator, a built-in bin, NSF/ETL certification, and multi-year warranties — not a plastic countertop unit. That engineering is why a built-in produces far more ice, runs quieter, and lasts many years longer.
Do built-in ice makers use a lot of electricity?
They're modest for what they do. These ITV models run on a standard 115V household circuit and use efficient R290 refrigerant, with select models ENERGY STAR listed. Actual use rises in hot rooms or with a dirty condenser, so good ventilation and monthly vent cleaning keep energy use down.
Can a built-in ice maker be installed freestanding?
Yes. Front-venting built-in units can be installed flush under a counter or used freestanding, as long as the front vent stays unobstructed and the location is cool. This flexibility makes them easy to place in kitchens, bars, and rooms where cabinetry isn't already prepared.
Is built-in ice maker ice safe to drink?
Yes, when the machine is NSF-listed, fed with potable filtered water, and cleaned and sanitized on schedule. Sanitation depends on maintenance, not the machine type — neglected units of any kind can build scale and biofilm. Regular descaling, sanitizing, and filter changes keep the ice safe and clear.
How long does a built-in ice maker take to make ice?
After installation it typically reaches steady production within a few hours and fills the bin over the following hours, depending on model, room temperature, and water temperature. Higher-capacity SPIKA models replenish a bin faster. Cooler rooms and colder incoming water speed up production.
What's the best built-in ice maker for a home bar?
For presentation, the ITV DELTA NG crystal-clear gourmet cube line is ideal for cocktails and whiskey. For maximum everyday volume, the SPIKA NG dice line keeps a busy bar stocked. Compact bars suit the 16–18" DELTA NG 80/120; higher-use bars fit the 21" DELTA NG 150 or SPIKA NG 160.
Do built-in ice makers turn off when full?
Yes. A bin sensor stops ice production when the storage bin is full and resumes as ice is used or melts. Because the bin isn't refrigerated like a freezer, some melt is normal; the machine simply makes more to keep the bin topped up. If it stops early, check the sensor and bin.
Can I get clear ice from a built-in ice maker?
Yes — choose a gourmet/clear-cube model like the ITV DELTA NG line, which produces dense, near-transparent cubes. Good water filtration further improves clarity. Standard dice machines (SPIKA NG) make solid, slightly less transparent cubes that are perfect for everyday high-volume use.