In this article, we will discuss the key factors to consider when shopping for an outdoor ice maker. We will provide an overview of the different types of outdoor ice machines, including portable, built-in, and commercial machines. We will break down the pros and cons of air-cooled vs. water-cooled ice makers. You’ll learn about important features like production capacity, bin storage, draining options, and more.
To help you find the perfect outdoor ice machine, we will provide our top picks for the best models across different categories and price points. We have researched and reviewed numerous options from leading brands like Manitowoc, Scotsman, Maxx Ice, and others. Whether you need a small countertop unit or a robust commercial-grade machine, you’ll find the best recommendation for your needs.
With the help of this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the ideal outdoor ice maker. A high-quality ice machine is a great investment that will keep drinks cold and refreshing for years to come. Let’s dive in and explore the key considerations for finding the best outdoor ice maker for your home!
Our Top Picks For 2025
The Mister Kool II from ADJ Products is a heavy-duty 700W fog machine that creates thick, low-lying fog effects perfect for Halloween displays, dance floors, and stage performances. This durable metal unit features a powerful heater and fan to quickly fill spaces with mystifying fog using regular ice and water-based fog juice.
The Mister Kool II is ADJ Products’ top low-lying fog machine for impressively spooky fog effects. This high-powered 700W unit rapidly generates dense, low fog that hangs in the air and creeps along the ground using standard ice from your freezer and water-based fog juice. Built with a rugged metal construction, the Mister Kool II fogger stands out with its:
- Powerful 700W heater that warms up in only 3 minutes to fill spaces with fog at an output of 3,000 cubic feet per minute
- Second fog shooting time of around 36 seconds for continuous low fog
- Fan that propels the fog over ice to create a chilling low-lying effect
- Drainage system and hose to easily eliminate excess fluid after use
- Durable metal housing weighing 19 lbs. for portability with built-in carry handle
The Mister Kool II is ideal for creating a haunting atmosphere at Halloween parties, events, haunted houses, and more with its ability to quickly generate dense, creeping low fog.
The Mister Kool II from American DJ is a durable, metal fog machine that generates thick, low-lying fog effects perfect for Halloween displays, dance floors, and stage performances. It uses regular water-based fog juice and ice to produce fog without dry ice or CO2.
The American DJ Mister Kool II is a powerful, low-lying fog machine ideal for creating spooky ambiance. This heavy-duty fogger features robust metal construction and an integrated carry handle for portability.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Generates thick low-lying fog that creeps along the floor for Halloween lawn displays, dance floors, and stage effects.
- Simple to use with regular ice and water-based fog juice, no dry ice or CO2 tanks required.
- Fast 3 minute warm up time thanks to a powerful 700W heater that outputs 3,000 cubic feet of fog per minute.
- Unique drainage system with hose and bag for easy, mess-free drainage and cleaning.
- Durable 19 lb. metal construction with built-in carry handle for easy transport and storage.
The Mister Kool II from American DJ is the top choice for creating chilling low-lying fog effects for Halloween, parties, performances, and more. Its simple operation and powerful output make it easy to generate thick, creeping fog for thrilling ambiance and visual impact.
The Bubble Magic 5 Gallon Washing Machine is an electric washing machine designed specifically for gentle, solvent-free extraction and separation of herbal essences. Made by Bubble Magic, it features a 0.5lb capacity, 135W motor, and 15 minute cycle time.
The Bubble Magic 5 Gallon Washing Machine revolutionizes the process of extracting herbal essences with a fast, gentle, and solvent-free automated system. This electric washing machine from Bubble Magic provides a contactless stirring cycle that causes less damage to plant material compared to hand stirring. Key features and benefits include:
- 110V, 135W motor provides power for fast 15 minute wash cycles
- 0.5lb capacity accommodates batches of varying densities
- Inlet and drain hoses for easy fill and drainage
- Gentle stirring action prevents excess agitation of plant material
- Solvent-free process preserves natural flavors and ensures no residual chemicals
- Automated process saves significant time and labor compared to hand washing
With the Bubble Magic 5 Gallon Washing Machine, you can efficiently extract the highest quality herbal essences without the hassle of manual processing. Its innovative design streamlines this delicate process for both personal and commercial use.
The Bubble Magic 5 Gallon Washing Machine Kit is an automated ice water extraction system for herbal essences. It includes a 5 gallon washing machine and 8 reusable extraction bags.
The Bubble Magic 5 Gallon Washing Machine Kit provides a complete solvent-free herbal extraction system. This kit features an electric washing machine designed for gentle, efficient stirring and washing cycles to extract oils and resins without damaging plant material. It comes with 8 reusable extraction bags for separating product by micron sizes.
Key Features and Benefits:
- 5 gallon electric washing machine with 0.5 lb capacity and 15 minute cycles
- Gentle contactless stirring prevents damage to plant material
- Solvent-free process preserves terpenes and natural flavors
- 8 reusable extraction bags (220, 190, 160, 120, 90, 73, 45, 25 micron)
- Yields high quality, contaminant-free extractions
- Automated process saves time and labor over hand washing
- 110V, 135W power; includes inlet and drain hoses
- Made in USA by Bubble Magic, a leading brand in hydroponics equipment
The Bubble Magic 5 Gallon Washing Machine Kit delivers an easy-to-use, efficient system for home herbal extraction enthusiasts looking for pure, flavorful results.
The Sunstone B-IC14 is a durable, stainless steel outdoor ice chest designed for built-in installation. This insulated ice box features a 14″ x 12″ basin that holds ice for drinks at your outdoor kitchen or bar.
The Sunstone B-IC14 Over/Under Height Single Basin Insulated Wall Ice Chest is an ideal addition to your outdoor living space. This stainless steel ice chest allows for over or under counter installation and includes a sturdy cover to keep ice chilled when not in use.
Key Features and Benefits:
- 304 stainless steel construction is durable and rust-resistant
- Fully insulated with packed insulation for optimal ice retention
- Over or under counter installation provides flexibility
- Large 14″ x 12″ basin holds ice, bottles and cans
- Included cover protects ice and keeps the chest clean
- Drain plug allows easy draining and cleaning
- Matches other Sunstone outdoor kitchen products for a cohesive look
With its commercial-grade stainless steel build, insulation and convenient features like a drain plug, the Sunstone B-IC14 ice chest is the perfect built-in ice storage solution for your outdoor kitchen, patio bar or any outdoor entertaining space.
The Cambro ICS100L110 is a durable, high-capacity ice caddy that keeps ice chilled and accessible for food service and catering needs. This commercial-grade ice chest features thick foam insulation to maintain ice temperature and a slide-open lid for easy access.
The Cambro ICS100L110 ice caddy is an ideal ice storage solution for commercial kitchens, bars, restaurants, and catering companies. This high-capacity ice chest can hold up to 100 lbs of ice to keep drinks chilled all service long.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Made of polyethylene plastic for durability and insulation
- Thick foam insulation keeps ice chilled for hours
- Holds up to 100 lbs of ice cubes or block ice
- Slide-open lid allows easy access without lifting
- Integrated drain plug for easy water drainage
- Reinforced bottom wears well even with heavy use
- Black color hides ice melt
- NSF certified for commercial food service
With robust construction and ample ice capacity, the Cambro ICS100L110 ice caddy is built to handle high-volume ice needs for restaurants, caterers, and food service businesses. Its smart design keeps ice chilled while making it easy to scoop as needed.
The Cambro 175 lb Sliding Lid Ice Caddy is an insulated ice container that keeps ice frozen for days. Made by Cambro, this commercial grade ice caddy features thick foam insulation and a sliding lid to maintain temperature.
The Cambro 175 lb Sliding Lid Ice Caddy is the perfect solution for keeping large quantities of ice frozen for extended periods. Made by trusted commercial kitchen supplier Cambro, this heavy-duty ice caddy features robust construction and superior insulation to maintain ice quality.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Thick polyethylene walls and foam insulation keep ice frozen for days
- Sliding lid reduces cross-contamination and keeps ice colder longer
- Molded handles provide easy maneuverability
- Front casters and rear wheels allow smooth transport
- Durable polyethylene won’t crack, dent or bubble
- Holds up to 175 lbs of ice
- Easy to clean slate blue exterior
With unmatched insulation and convenient transport features, the Cambro 175 lb Sliding Lid Ice Caddy is ideal for restaurants, caterers, bars and any business needing to store large volumes of ice. This commercial-grade ice caddy keeps ice colder for longer.
Sleek stainless steel trim kit designed specifically for the Blaze 50 lb 15-inch outdoor ice maker. Seamlessly integrates with ice maker for a polished, professional look. Durable construction withstands outdoor elements. Easy to install.
The Blaze Stainless Steel Trim Kit is specially designed to complement the Blaze 50 lb 15-Inch Outdoor Ice Maker. This high-quality trim kit provides a smooth, refined appearance and durability for outdoor use.
Key Features:
- Constructed of polished stainless steel that matches ice maker finish
- Precision-cut for a seamless, integrated look
- Covers gaps and rough edges around ice maker
- Sleek and professional design
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Easy to install with included instructions
- Designed specifically for Blaze 50 lb 15-inch outdoor ice maker
The Blaze Stainless Steel Trim Kit elevates the look of your outdoor kitchen while providing lasting performance. It’s the ideal accessory to give your ice maker a cohesive, stylish appearance.
The Bubble Magic 20 Gallon Ice Hash Extraction Machine is an industrial grade system for efficiently extracting ice hash and essential oils. Made by Bubble Magic, this complete kit contains everything needed for ice water extraction.
The Bubble Magic 20 Gallon Ice Hash Extraction Machine is designed to help you efficiently extract ice hash and essential oils at an industrial level. This all-in-one kit from Bubble Magic includes a high-quality 20 gallon washing machine and a 5 bag extraction set with bags ranging from 25 to 220 microns.
Key features and benefits:
- 20 gallon capacity washing machine with timer and drain for efficient processing
- Complete 5 bag extraction kit for separating product by micron level
- Bags range from 25 to 220 microns for fine filtration
- Reusable bags and machine for repeated extractions
- Portable and requires minimal electricity and water
- Made by Bubble Magic, leaders in extraction equipment
With the Bubble Magic 20 Gallon Ice Hash Extraction Machine, you can produce high quality, purified ice hash and essential oils. This is an industrial grade system designed for efficient, large-scale extraction.
The Growsun Commercial Outdoor Ice Maker Machine is an industrial-grade ice machine designed for outdoor use at bars, restaurants, catering events and more. It can produce up to 250 lbs of ice per day.
The Growsun Commercial Outdoor Ice Maker Machine is the perfect addition for any outdoor entertaining area. This rugged and powerful ice machine can handle the demands of high volume ice production in outdoor environments.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty stainless steel construction
- Built-in compressor for continuous ice making
- Produces up to 250 lbs of ice per day
- Removable ice storage bin holds up to 55 lbs of ice
- Digital control panel for customizing ice sizes and production
- Self-cleaning function reduces mineral scale buildup
- Designed for outdoor use with weatherproof cabinet
With its robust commercial-grade design and high production capacity, the Growsun Commercial Outdoor Ice Maker Machine is ideal for keeping drinks cold at busy restaurants, bars, catering gigs and more. The stainless steel construction can withstand the elements while the efficient compressor continually cranks out ice all day long. No more running out of ice at your next big outdoor event!
