Ice Makers

Buying guide for ice makers

Types of ice makers

Ice maker types include:

Portable countertop ice makers: Mini ice makers ideal for kitchens, holiday homes, BBQs, camping trips, and small events. With fast cycle times and selectable cube sizes, they’re a practical solution when you want ice on demand without permanent installation.

High-output freestanding ice makers: Connect directly to mains water and use gravity drainage, allowing them to produce large quantities of ice throughout the day without refilling. Suit busy homes, bars, events, clubs, and even post-workout ice bath setups where demand is high.

Ice maker specs & performance comparison

Design, placement & kitchen fit

Portable models are small, light, and easy to shift around, which makes them handy for kitchens, outdoor tables, or anywhere you only need ice now and then. If bench space is tight or you don’t want something permanently out, these are easy to tuck away when you’re done.

High-output freestanding ice makers take up more room and usually have a stainless steel finish, so they suit spots where they can stay put, like a garage, bar area, utility room, or entertaining space. They need decent airflow and a bit of breathing room, but the payoff is a steady supply of ice without constant refilling.

Installation, care & maintenance tips

Portable units are straightforward to use. Plug it in, add water, and you’re making ice within minutes. Empty the ice basket as you go and tip out leftover water at the end of the day. It keeps things fresh and ready for the next use.

High-output ice makers need a bit more forethought. They’re designed to stay put, so you’ll need a mains water connection, drainage, and a standard 220–240V power supply. Giving the machine enough breathing room and checking measurements before installation helps it run efficiently and consistently.

To take care of your ice maker, wipe it down weekly, descale every few months depending on your water quality, and keep vents clear so airflow isn’t restricted. This keeps ice production consistent and helps the machine last longer.

What our customers say

Icemaker 45kg

“Excellent purchase. Arrived quickly, easy to set up, works like a dream.”

Icemaker 45kg

“Great machine, use it for ice for fishing, bag it and store it.”

Countertop Ice Maker 2L

“Love it, can't do without it now, makes a batch of ice very quickly.”

Frequently asked questions

How much ice can each unit produce?

Portable ice makers produce up to 12 kg of ice per day, while high-output machines can produce up to 45 kg per day.

Do portable units require plumbing?

No. Portable ice makers use a manual water reservoir and do not need a mains water connection.

How to clean and maintain ice makers?

Clean the ice basket weekly and descale the machine every 3–6 months. The high-output ice maker includes a self-cleaning function to make maintenance easier.

Can ice makers be used outdoors?

Portable ice makers can be used outdoors in dry, sheltered conditions. Freestanding units are best kept indoors or in protected utility areas.

What warranty is included?

Trade Tested ice makers come with a 12-month parts and labour warranty.

Which unit is best for home vs events?

Portable ice makers suit home use and small gatherings, while high-output freestanding machines are better for events, clubs, or situations with high ice demand.

Why buy ice makers from Trade Tested

Trade Tested stocks ice machines for sale that are ready to perform when you need them, whether it’s for family gatherings, events, or your after-work drinks. Browse our range online and choose an ice maker that keeps drinks cold, service smooth, and ice supply sorted without the hassle. Need help choosing? Contact us for expert guidance.