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Best Undercounter Ice Machines 2026: Top Picks for Australian Restaurants, Bars & Cafes

Best Undercounter Ice Machines 2026: Top Picks for Australian Restaurants, Bars & Cafes

The Coast Team on 8th Jan 2026

Undercounter ice machines pack impressive ice-making capability into a compact footprint that slides beneath standard benchtops. For Australian cafes, bars, restaurants, and small foodservice operations, they're often the ideal solution-combining production, storage, and convenience in one space-saving unit without the complexity of modular systems.

The 2026 models bring meaningful improvements: improved energy efficiency that reduces operating costs, smart diagnostic systems that prevent costly downtime, and eco-friendly refrigerants meeting current environmental standards. Manufacturer reports indicate modern units can produce significantly more ice than their predecessors while using less energy.

This comprehensive guide ranks the best undercounter ice machines available in Australia for 2026, with verified specifications, real-world performance insights, and recommendations based on your specific venue type and requirements.

Need help choosing the right undercounter ice machine? Get expert sizing advice → or call 1800 688 590 for immediate assistance.

Understanding Undercounter Ice Machines

Before diving into specific models, it's essential to understand what makes undercounter ice machines distinct and when they're the right choice for your operation.

Self-Contained Design

Undercounter (or self-contained) ice machines integrate three core functions into a single cabinet:

  1. Ice production head - The evaporator and compressor system that creates ice
  2. Storage bin - Insulated compartment holding finished ice
  3. Unified housing - Single cabinet typically designed to fit under standard benchtops

This contrasts sharply with modular systems where the ice maker head sits atop a separate storage bin, requiring more space, more complex installation, and higher upfront investment.

Why Choose Undercounter Over Modular?

Advantages of undercounter units:

  • Compact footprint (typically 380-610mm wide)
  • Simple installation-connect water, plug in, done
  • Suitable for front-of-house placement
  • Lower upfront cost than equivalent modular systems
  • Quieter operation (quality units typically run at approximately 40-50dB, similar to a household refrigerator)
  • Easier to relocate if needed
  • Less floor space required

Limitations to consider:

  • Maximum output typically caps around 130kg/day
  • Storage capacity limited compared to modular bins
  • Cannot scale up easily-upgrading means replacing the entire unit
  • Repairs can be more complex with integrated designs

The general rule: if your daily ice needs stay below 100-130kg, undercounter units offer the best combination of convenience, cost, and capability.

Best Undercounter Ice Machines 2026: Quick Comparison

Pricing is indicative and subject to change. Contact Coast Distributors for current pricing and availability.

Model Ice Type Daily Output Storage Best For Price Range
Ice-O-Matic UCG045A Gourmet 20.5kg 8kg Small cafes, offices $2,800-3,100
Ice-O-Matic UCG065A Gourmet 27kg 8kg Coffee shops $3,200-3,500
Ice-O-Matic UCG085A Gourmet 38.5kg 15kg Bars, busy cafes $3,800-4,200
Ice-O-Matic UCG105A Gourmet 47.5kg 22kg Restaurants, cocktail bars $4,100-4,500
Ice-O-Matic UCG135A Gourmet 58kg 22kg Busy venues $4,500-4,900
Lassele LUI-100A Crescent 54kg 19kg Pubs, clubs $3,500-3,900
Lassele LUI-150A Crescent 66kg 24kg Medium restaurants $4,000-4,400
Lassele LUI-250A Crescent 126kg 42kg High-volume bars $5,500-6,200
Ice-O-Matic ICEU225 Half Cube 96kg 32kg Hotels, large restaurants $5,200-5,800
Grant CA150SC-S-L Large Cube 48kg 20kg General commercial $2,900-3,400
Hoshizaki IM-50BAA-LM Square Cube 23kg 10kg Premium compact $4,500-5,500
Hoshizaki IM-200BAC Square Cube 85kg 34kg Premium high-volume $8,000-10,000
Scotsman CU1526MA-1 Medium Cube 68kg 36kg Advanced diagnostics $5,500-7,000

Detailed Reviews: Top Undercounter Ice Machines

Best Overall: Ice-O-Matic UCG085A

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 38.5kg (at 21°C ambient, 10°C water)
  • Storage capacity: 15kg
  • Ice type: Gourmet (crescent)
  • Dimensions: 463W x 566D x 842H mm
  • Power: 240V, 10A single phase
  • Condenser: Air-cooled, front-breathing
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/ucg085a/

The UCG085A consistently earns our top recommendation because it hits the sweet spot for the majority of Australian hospitality venues. Its 38.5kg daily production comfortably handles a 50-60 seat restaurant, while the gourmet crescent ice genuinely elevates drink presentation-customers notice and appreciate the clear, slow-melting crescents.

What sets it apart:

  • Pure Ice antimicrobial protection - Built into the water system, this actively inhibits bacteria, mould, and algae growth throughout the machine's water pathway. Essential for Australian food safety compliance.
  • Front-breathing design - The condenser vents through the front grille, allowing true flush installation against back and side walls. This maximises usable floor space in tight bar areas.
  • Stainless steel exterior - Full stainless construction ensures durability in commercial environments and simplifies cleaning.
  • Strong service network - Ice-O-Matic's Australian distribution means parts availability and technician access across metro and regional areas.

Real-world performance: At 30°C ambient temperatures (realistic for Australian kitchens), output may reduce to approximately 32-34kg daily rather than the rated 38.5kg. Industry guidance suggests factoring in approximately 15-20% reduction from rated capacity for typical Australian operating conditions, though actual performance varies by installation environment.

Best for: Cocktail bars, specialty cafes, restaurants seating 40-70 covers, wine bars

Interested in the UCG085A? Request a quote → or view full specifications →

Best Entry-Level: Ice-O-Matic UCG045A

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 20.5kg
  • Storage capacity: 8kg
  • Ice type: Gourmet (crescent)
  • Dimensions: 463W x 566D x 842H mm
  • Power: 240V, 10A single phase
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/ucg045a/

For small operations where ice needs are modest but quality still matters, the UCG045A delivers genuine gourmet ice at the most accessible price point in the range. At 20.5kg daily, it's suited to venues serving under 30 customers or as a backup unit for larger operations.

Why we recommend it:

  • Lowest cost of entry into quality commercial ice
  • Identical build quality and antimicrobial protection as larger UCG models
  • Same compact 381mm width footprint
  • Perfect stepping stone-upgrade path to larger UCG models when business grows

Practical applications: Small coffee shops, office kitchens, boutique retail stores with beverage service, bed & breakfasts, small function spaces.

Best for: Operations under 30 seats, backup units, low-volume locations

Interested in the UCG045A? Request a quote → or view full specifications →

Best Mid-Range: Ice-O-Matic UCG065A

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 27kg
  • Storage capacity: 8kg
  • Ice type: Gourmet (crescent)
  • Dimensions: 463W x 566D x 842H mm
  • Power: 240V, 10A single phase
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/ucg065a/

The UCG065A represents excellent value-stepping up from the UCG045A provides 32% more ice production for only ~$400 additional investment. For growing businesses expecting to increase covers, this model offers meaningful headroom without excessive upfront cost.

Value proposition: At approximately $120/kg of additional daily production, the upgrade from UCG045A to UCG065A is one of the most cost-effective capacity increases in the range.

Best for: Growing cafes, small wine bars, food trucks, 30-50 seat venues

Interested in the UCG065A? Request a quote → or view full specifications →

Best for Medium-High Volume: Ice-O-Matic UCG105A

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 47.5kg
  • Storage capacity: 22kg
  • Ice type: Gourmet (crescent)
  • Dimensions: 463W x 566D x 842H mm
  • Power: 240V, 10A single phase
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/ucg105a/

The UCG105A is the largest in the standard UCG gourmet range, delivering nearly 50kg of premium crescent ice daily with a substantial 22kg storage bin. The larger bin is particularly valuable-it allows the machine to build reserves during quiet periods, ensuring you don't run short during rush service.

Key advantages:

  • Maximum gourmet ice output in standard UCG range
  • 22kg bin handles sudden demand spikes without depleting
  • Same narrow 381mm footprint as smaller models
  • Ideal for venues with concentrated peak periods (lunch rush, evening service)

Best for: Restaurants seating 60-90 covers, cocktail bars, medium venues with distinct peak periods

Interested in the UCG105A? Request a quote → or view full specifications →

Best Maximum Gourmet Output: Ice-O-Matic UCG135A

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 58kg
  • Storage capacity: 22kg
  • Ice type: Gourmet (crescent)
  • Dimensions: 463W x 566D x 842H mm
  • Power: 240V, 10A single phase
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/ucg135a/

When you need maximum gourmet ice from an undercounter format, the UCG135A delivers 58kg daily-the highest output in Ice-O-Matic's UCG series. For busy cocktail venues where drink quality and presentation are paramount but space for modular equipment isn't available, this model hits the mark.

Best for: High-volume cocktail bars, busy restaurants seating 80-100, venues prioritising drink presentation

Interested in the UCG135A? Request a quote → or view full specifications →

Best High-Volume Undercounter: Lassele LUI-250A

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 126kg
  • Storage capacity: 42kg
  • Ice type: Crescent
  • Dimensions: Larger undercounter format
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour, 3 years compressor

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/lui-250a/

When you need modular-level output without modular complexity, the Lassele LUI-250A stands alone. At 126kg daily production, it matches or exceeds entry-level modular systems while maintaining self-contained convenience.

The 42kg storage bin-significantly larger than any other undercounter model-provides genuine buffer for high-demand operations. This matters enormously during Friday night rushes or event bookings where ice consumption spikes unpredictably.

Why choose the LUI-250A:

  • High undercounter output (126kg/day)
  • Korean engineering with proven reliability in Australian conditions
  • Extended 3-year compressor warranty shows manufacturer confidence
  • Price competitive against modular systems with similar output
  • Eliminates the need for separate bin purchase and stacking

Best for: High-volume pubs, nightclubs, large restaurants seating 100+, catering operations, venues where space constraints prevent modular installation

Interested in the LUI-250A? Request a quote → or view full specifications →

Best Cube Ice: Ice-O-Matic ICEU225

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 96kg
  • Storage capacity: 32kg
  • Ice type: Half cube
  • Self-contained design
  • Warranty: 3 years parts & labour, 5 years evaporator & compressor

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/iceu225/

While most undercounter units produce gourmet or crescent ice, the ICEU225 delivers traditional half-cube ice-the format preferred for self-serve dispensers, healthcare applications, and operations where cube consistency matters more than aesthetic presentation.

Standout features:

  • Substantial 96kg daily production - Significantly more than most gourmet undercounter models
  • 32kg storage bin - The largest bin in any self-contained format handles serious peak demand
  • Extended warranty - 5-year coverage on evaporator and compressor reflects Ice-O-Matic's confidence in this platform
  • Half-cube format - Faster chilling than full cubes, ideal for soft drinks and iced water

Best for: Hotels, aged care facilities, healthcare, self-serve beverage stations, any operation requiring cube (not gourmet) ice

Interested in the ICEU225? Request a quote → or view full specifications →

Best Value: Lassele LUI-100A

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 54kg
  • Storage capacity: 19kg
  • Ice type: Crescent
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour, 3 years compressor

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/lui-100a/

As Coast Distributors' exclusive Australian importer of Lassele, we provide full support for the complete LUI range. Lassele delivers quality crescent ice with competitive pricing. For cost-conscious operators who want reliable crescent ice, the LUI-100A offers compelling value.

Value considerations:

  • 54kg output exceeds the UCG085A at lower cost
  • Extended 3-year compressor warranty (vs 2-year standard on UCG)
  • Korean manufacturing maintains quality standards
  • Spare parts availability through Coast Distributors

Best for: Budget-conscious operators, backup units, moderate-volume venues prioritising value

Interested in the LUI-100A? Request a quote → or view full specifications →

Also Notable: Lassele LUI-150A

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 66kg
  • Storage capacity: 24kg
  • Ice type: Crescent
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour, 3 years compressor

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/lui-150a/

Positioned between the LUI-100A and the high-volume LUI-250A, the LUI-150A suits operations needing more capacity than the UCG range offers but not quite requiring the LUI-250A's substantial output.

Best for: Medium-sized restaurants, RSL clubs, sports clubs, busy bistros

Best Budget Cube: Grant CA150SC-S-L

Specifications:

  • Daily production: 48kg
  • Storage capacity: 20kg
  • Ice type: Large cube
  • Warranty: 2 years parts & labour

Full Product Page: https://www.coastdistributors.com.au/ca150sc-s-l/

Grant's CA150SC-S-L offers true cube ice production at competitive pricing. For operations specifically wanting large cubes without the ICEU225's higher output level (and cost), this unit provides practical value.

Best for: Small-medium venues wanting cube ice, backup units, general commercial applications

For slightly larger requirements, consider the Grant CA150SC-S-XL.

Other Undercounter Brands

Some operators ask about Japanese and European brands. Here's what you should know before considering them.

Hoshizaki Undercounter Models

Hoshizaki IM-50BAA-LM:

  • Daily production: 23kg (50 lbs at 70°F/50°F; 20kg at 90°F/70°F)
  • Storage capacity: 10kg (22 lbs)
  • Ice type: Large cubes
  • Dimensions: 502W x 451D x 1003H mm
  • Power: 115V/60/1, 5 amps

Hoshizaki IM-200BAC:

  • Daily production: 85kg (188 lbs at 70°F/50°F; 68kg at 90°F/70°F)
  • Storage capacity: 34kg (75 lbs)
  • Ice type: 1" x 1" x 1¼" square cubes
  • Dimensions: 1003W x 600D x 851H mm
  • Power: 115V/60/1, 7.6 amps

Considerations: Hoshizaki products are typically positioned at premium price points and are distributed separately from Coast Distributors. Service and parts availability may vary by location-worth confirming with local technicians before purchase.

Scotsman Undercounter Models

Scotsman Prodigy CU1526MA-1:

  • Daily production: 68kg (150 lbs at 70°F/50°F)
  • Storage capacity: 36kg (80 lbs)
  • Ice type: Medium cubes (7/8" x 7/8" x 7/8")
  • Dimensions: 660W x 695D x 838H mm
  • 3-year parts & labour warranty

Considerations: Scotsman products are typically positioned at premium price points and are distributed separately from Coast Distributors. Their "medium cube" ice has a slightly different texture than traditional cubes. Service availability may vary by location.

Undercounter Ice Machine Sizing Guide

Getting sizing right prevents two costly outcomes: running out of ice during service (catastrophic for customer experience) or overspending on excess capacity that sits idle.

Calculate Your Daily Ice Requirements

These are projected averages based on industry benchmarks. Actual requirements vary by service style, drink menu, climate, and customer behaviour.

Venue Type Ice Per Customer (Est.) 50-Seat Venue 80-Seat Venue 100-Seat Venue
Cafe/Coffee Shop ~0.5kg 25kg 40kg 50kg
Restaurant ~0.7kg 35kg 56kg 70kg
Bar/Pub ~1.4kg 70kg 112kg 140kg
Fine Dining ~0.6kg 30kg 48kg 60kg
Fast Food/QSR ~0.4kg 20kg 32kg 40kg

Critical adjustment: Industry practice recommends adding 20-30% buffer above calculated requirements.

Sizing Example: 60-Seat Cocktail Bar

Base calculation: 60 seats × 1.4kg = 84kg daily With 25% buffer: 84kg × 1.25 = 105kg required

The Lassele LUI-250A (126kg) provides comfortable headroom.

Alternatively, if space exists, a modular system like the Ice-O-Matic CIM0325 (132kg) with a B40 bin offers upgrade potential.

Unsure about sizing? Get a free sizing consultation →

Sizing Example: 40-Seat Coffee Shop

Base calculation: 40 seats × 0.5kg = 20kg daily With 25% buffer: 20kg × 1.25 = 25kg required

The Ice-O-Matic UCG065A (27kg) fits perfectly.

Production Ratings: Lab vs Reality

Manufacturers publish two ice production ratings:

  1. Ideal conditions: 21°C ambient air, 10°C inlet water
  2. AHRI conditions: 32°C ambient air, 21°C inlet water

Australian commercial kitchens routinely exceed 30°C during service. Always use AHRI ratings (the lower number) for sizing calculations. A machine rated at 50kg under ideal conditions may produce approximately 38-42kg in a typical Australian kitchen during summer, though actual output depends on specific conditions.

Storage Bin Sizing

Optimal bin sizing stores 40-60% of daily production:

  • Too small: Machine cycles off when bin is full, wasting production capacity
  • Too large: Ice sits longer, potentially clumping or absorbing odours

For undercounter units, bin size is fixed. When choosing between models, factor in bin capacity alongside production rate.

Ice Type: Gourmet Crescent vs Cube

Understanding ice types helps match equipment to application.

Gourmet/Crescent Ice (UCG series, LUI series)

Characteristics:

  • Clear, hard, slow-melting
  • Crescent or half-moon shape
  • Premium appearance in drinks
  • Doesn't clump together in storage
  • Displaces less liquid volume per piece

Best applications:

  • Cocktail bars and wine bars
  • Specialty coffee shops (iced drinks)
  • Fine dining restaurants
  • Any venue emphasising drink presentation

Production method: Water flows over a horizontally mounted evaporator, freezing in crescent-shaped cells. Clear ice forms because impurities are flushed away during the freezing process.

Cube Ice (ICEU series, Grant CA series)

Characteristics:

  • Traditional square or rectangular shape
  • Available in full cube, half cube, and small cube sizes
  • Familiar format customers expect
  • Half cubes chill faster than full cubes
  • Works well with self-serve dispensers

Best applications:

  • Self-serve beverage stations
  • Healthcare and aged care facilities
  • Hotels and accommodation
  • Quick-service restaurants
  • Any venue using ice dispensers

Production method: Water fills a grid of moulds; a refrigerated plate freezes ice from one side. Harvest cycle releases cubes into the bin.

Making the Choice

Most Australian bars and restaurants prefer gourmet/crescent ice for its aesthetic value and slow dilution characteristics. For self-serve or healthcare applications, cube ice is standard.

Installation Requirements for Undercounter Ice Machines

Proper installation directly impacts performance, longevity, and warranty coverage.

Space and Clearance

Standard undercounter dimensions:

  • Height: 820-900mm (designed for standard benchtop height)
  • Width: 380-610mm (varies by model)
  • Depth: 500-650mm

Clearance requirements:

  • Front-breathing units (Ice-O-Matic UCG): Can install flush against back and side walls
  • Rear/side-venting units: Require 100-150mm clearance on vented sides
  • Always verify specific model requirements before installation

Electrical Requirements

Most undercounter ice machines operate on standard Australian power:

  • 240V single phase
  • 10A circuit (some larger models require 15A)
  • Dedicated circuit recommended (avoids nuisance trips if sharing with other equipment)
  • Nearby GPO location for service access

Water Supply

Requirement Specification
Minimum pressure 140kPa (20 psi)
Maximum pressure 550kPa (80 psi)
Supply line ½" or ¼" (check model specs)
Shut-off valve Required within reach
Water quality Filtration strongly recommended

Most Australian mains pressure falls within acceptable range. Rural properties on tank or bore water should verify pressure and consider filtration to remove sediment and minerals.

Drainage

  • Gravity drain to floor drain (preferred)
  • Drain pump available for situations where floor drain isn't nearby
  • Air gap required to prevent backflow contamination
  • Position machine to minimise drain line length

Ambient Temperature Considerations

Air-cooled ice machines are rated for specific ambient temperature ranges. In hot Australian conditions:

  • Performance decreases above 32-35°C
  • Machines work harder, consuming more energy
  • Component lifespan may reduce in continuously hot environments

For enclosed spaces without adequate ventilation, consider water-cooled alternatives or ensure climate control keeps ambient temperatures reasonable.

Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment

Commercial ice machines represent significant investment. Industry experience suggests average lifespan is 7-10 years under normal conditions, with excellent maintenance extending lifespan to 12-15+ years while maintaining ice quality and food safety compliance.

Weekly Tasks (5 minutes)

  • Wipe exterior surfaces with sanitiser
  • Visual check of ice quality (should be clear, uniform)
  • Verify bin is draining properly (no standing water)
  • Check for unusual noises during operation

Monthly Tasks (30 minutes)

  • Clean condenser coils (air-cooled units)-dust accumulation reduces efficiency
  • Sanitise storage bin interior with food-safe sanitiser
  • Inspect door gaskets for wear or gaps
  • Check water filter indicator if equipped
  • Full cleaning cycle per manufacturer procedure
  • Descale evaporator if water hardness warrants
  • Replace water filter cartridge
  • Inspect all components for wear
  • Check refrigerant charge (qualified technician)

Annual Service

  • Comprehensive professional inspection
  • Replace worn gaskets, seals, and water lines
  • Full system sanitisation
  • Performance verification

Water Filtration: Essential, Not Optional

Water filtration dramatically impacts machine longevity and ice quality:

Benefits of proper filtration:

  • Reduces scale buildup on evaporator (the most expensive component)
  • Removes chlorine that degrades plastic components
  • Improves ice clarity and taste
  • Extends time between deep cleaning
  • Maintains food safety compliance

Recommended filters:

Proper filtration extends equipment life and may be required for warranty coverage. Budget $100-200 annually for replacement cartridges.

Coast Distributors offers compatible filtration options. See our water filtration range.

When to Upgrade from Undercounter to Modular

Undercounter machines have practical limits. Consider upgrading to modular systems when:

Signs You've Outgrown Undercounter

  • Daily ice needs consistently exceed 100-130kg
  • You're running out of ice during peak service
  • Storage capacity can't handle demand spikes
  • Multiple undercounter units are required (modular is often more efficient)
  • Future expansion is planned
  • Back-of-house space is available for larger equipment

Modular System Advantages

  • Production scales to 200kg, 400kg, 700kg+ daily
  • Larger bins store 150-400kg+ ice
  • Stack multiple heads on single bin for redundancy
  • Easier service access to components
  • Better long-term value for high-volume operations

From undercounter, consider:

For 130-250kg daily:

For 250-400kg daily:

See our modular cube ice makers for detailed recommendations.

Warranty Comparison: What's Covered?

Brand/Model Standard Coverage Extended Components
Ice-O-Matic UCG Series 2 years parts & labour -
Ice-O-Matic ICEU Series 3 years parts & labour 5 years evaporator & compressor
Lassele LUI Series 2 years parts & labour 3 years compressor
Grant CA Series 2 years parts & labour -
Hoshizaki IM Series 3 years parts & labour 5 years condenser coil

Warranty notes:

  • Coverage requires professional installation and maintenance records
  • Water filtration may be required to maintain warranty on some brands
  • Commercial use warranties differ from residential (verify with supplier)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an undercounter ice machine take to produce ice?

Production timing varies by model, ambient conditions, and ice type. Ice-O-Matic UCG gourmet models complete their first freeze cycle in approximately 20-30 minutes under standard conditions (21°C ambient, 10°C water). Higher-output units like the Lassele LUI-250A produce faster cycles due to larger evaporator plates. Note: machines have a built-in 3-5 minute startup delay before refrigeration begins. Most operations run undercounter ice machines continuously, which maintains bin levels between 60-80% for optimal efficiency.

Can undercounter ice machines be built into cabinetry?

Yes, if the unit is front-breathing. Ice-O-Matic UCG series allows flush installation against back and side walls. Always verify specific model ventilation requirements before enclosing.

What water pressure do undercounter ice machines need?

Minimum 140kPa (20 psi), maximum 550kPa (80 psi). Most Australian mains supply falls within this range. Low pressure causes slow production; high pressure can damage components.

How noisy are undercounter ice machines?

Quality units operate at 40-50dB-roughly equivalent to a household refrigerator. Suitable for front-of-house installation in most venues. Older or poorly maintained machines may be louder.

Do I need a water filter?

Strongly recommended. Filters extend machine lifespan, improve ice quality, reduce maintenance frequency, and may be required to maintain warranty. Budget $100-200 annually for cartridge replacements.

How long do undercounter ice machines last?

With excellent maintenance, quality units typically last 10-15+ years. Average lifespan under normal conditions is 7-10 years. Without maintenance, lifespan may reduce to 5-8 years. Coast Distributors is Australia's exclusive importer of Ice-O-Matic, and their robust construction combined with our strong Australian service network help ensure you get the full lifespan from your investment.

What's the difference between gourmet and cube ice?

Gourmet ice is crescent-shaped, crystal-clear, slow-melting-premium for drinks. Cube ice is traditional square shape, better for self-serve and healthcare. Most Australian hospitality venues prefer gourmet.

Can I use an undercounter ice machine outdoors?

Not recommended without weather protection. Outdoor environments expose machines to temperature extremes, dust, and moisture that accelerate wear. Purpose-built outdoor-rated units exist for these applications.

Our 2026 Recommendations by Application

Best for Cocktail Bars

Ice-O-Matic UCG105A - 47.5kg daily gourmet ice with 22kg storage handles concentrated evening service. Clear crescent ice elevates drink presentation.

Best for Cafes and Coffee Shops

Ice-O-Matic UCG065A - 27kg daily suits typical cafe volumes. Excellent value with room for growth.

Best for High-Volume Bars and Pubs

Lassele LUI-250A - 126kg daily matches modular output without modular complexity. The 42kg bin handles unpredictable rushes.

Best for Restaurants (60-100 seats)

Ice-O-Matic UCG085A or Lassele LUI-100A - Both deliver 38-54kg daily with reliable performance. Choose based on budget and brand preference.

Best for Hotels and Accommodation

Ice-O-Matic ICEU225 - 96kg daily cube ice with 32kg storage. Half-cube format suits self-serve and guest ice dispensers.

Best Budget Option

Grant CA150SC-S-L - Cube ice at competitive pricing with Australian brand support.

Best Premium Gourmet Ice

Ice-O-Matic UCG135A - 58kg daily of crystal-clear gourmet ice with 22kg storage. The top of the UCG range for venues demanding maximum undercounter output with premium ice quality.

Get Expert Help Choosing Your Undercounter Ice Machine

Coast Distributors makes it easy to find the perfect undercounter ice machine for your operation:

? Call Us: 1800 688 590 (Freecall)
✉️ Email: sales@coastdistributors.com.au
? Locations: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth

Quick Actions:

Why Choose Coast Distributors?

  • Exclusive Australian Importer - Ice-O-Matic, Follett, Grant, Lassele, Staff
  • 80+ Years Experience - Australia's largest commercial ice equipment distributor
  • Full Technical Support - From sizing to installation to ongoing maintenance
  • Nationwide Service - Sydney, Melbourne, Perth locations
  • Genuine Parts & Warranty - Full manufacturer support
  • Service & maintenance support - Ongoing maintenance programs to maximize equipment life

Explore our undercounter range:

Ready to get started? Contact us today →

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