Where to Find Compact Undercounter Ice Maker Suppliers?

China remains the dominant hub for compact undercounter ice maker production, with key manufacturing clusters in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Zhejiang province. These regions host vertically integrated facilities specializing in commercial refrigeration equipment, supported by mature supply chains for compressors, evaporators, and stainless steel components. Shanghai and Guangzhou serve as primary export gateways, offering streamlined logistics for global distribution via air and sea freight.

The industrial ecosystem enables cost-efficient production through localized sourcing of core materials—primarily 304 stainless steel, copper condensers, and environmentally compliant R134a or R404a refrigerants. Manufacturers leverage automated assembly lines and modular designs to support both standard models and OEM/ODM configurations. Typical monthly output per mid-sized facility ranges from 1,000 to 5,000 units, with lead times averaging 25–35 days for containerized orders. Buyers benefit from flexible MOQs, often starting at one set for sample validation.

How to Choose Compact Undercounter Ice Maker Suppliers?

Effective supplier selection requires systematic evaluation across technical, operational, and transactional dimensions:

Technical Compliance & Design Expertise
Verify adherence to international standards such as CE, RoHS, and UL certifications, particularly for electrical safety and refrigerant handling. Confirm that units are designed for ambient temperatures up to 43°C, a critical factor for commercial kitchens. Request performance data including daily ice yield (ranging from 20kg to 100kg), energy consumption (typically 1.8–3.5 kWh/100kg), and noise levels (<50 dB). Ensure compatibility with local voltage (110V/60Hz or 220V/50Hz) and water pressure requirements.

Production Capability Verification
Assess infrastructure indicators such as factory scale, R&D capacity, and quality control protocols. Prioritize suppliers with dedicated testing chambers for cycle durability, leak detection, and insulation efficiency. In-house fabrication of critical components—such as evaporator plates and control boards—enhances consistency and reduces dependency on external vendors. Cross-reference claimed capabilities with verifiable metrics like on-time delivery rates and reorder frequency.

• Target suppliers with ≥90% on-time delivery performance
• Prioritize those maintaining response times under 12 hours
• Evaluate after-sales support structure, especially spare parts availability and technical documentation

Transaction Risk Mitigation
Utilize secure payment mechanisms such as letter of credit or platform-based escrow services. Conduct pre-shipment inspections to validate unit functionality, finish quality, and packaging integrity. For bulk procurement, request third-party audit reports or factory video walkthroughs to confirm production volume and process controls. Sampling is strongly advised—expect lead times of 7–15 days for prototype units, with costs typically covering 30–60% of unit price depending on customization level.

What Are the Best Compact Undercounter Ice Maker Suppliers?

Performance Analysis
Shanghai Jie Qin and Guangzhou Xiwei demonstrate strong reliability with 100% on-time delivery records, making them suitable for time-sensitive procurement. Shanghai Zishu stands out for responsiveness (≤1h) and high reorder rate (33%), indicating customer satisfaction despite moderate delivery performance. Guangzhou Xiwei offers the widest product range within refrigeration systems and leads in reorder rate (50%), suggesting consistent quality in niche segments. Cixi Jirui presents competitive pricing but lower delivery reliability (50%), warranting caution for large-scale contracts. Qinyang Lede, while fulfilling orders punctually, has a low reorder rate, potentially reflecting limited post-sale engagement. Buyers seeking OEM partnerships should prioritize suppliers with diversified product lines and established export histories, such as Shanghai Zishu and Guangzhou Xiwei.

FAQs

How to verify compact undercounter ice maker supplier reliability?

Validate certifications (CE, RoHS, ISO 9001) through official registries or third-party verification platforms. Request test reports for compressor lifespan, ice clarity, and water usage efficiency. Analyze transaction history, focusing on consistent order fulfillment and dispute resolution outcomes. Direct factory audits or virtual tours can confirm production scale and quality management practices.

What is the typical MOQ and lead time?

MOQs vary from 1 set for samples to 10–30 units for bulk pricing. Standard lead time ranges from 25 to 35 days after deposit confirmation. Express production may reduce timelines by 7–10 days at additional cost. Air freight enables delivery within 5–7 days post-shipment for urgent needs.

Can suppliers customize ice makers for specific requirements?

Yes, most suppliers support customization in dimensions, ice type (cube, crescent, or cylindrical), control panel language, and voltage configuration. OEM branding, including logo printing and color finishes, is widely available. Technical drawings and 3D models are typically provided within 3–5 business days for approval.

Do manufacturers provide after-sales service and spare parts?

Reputable suppliers offer 1–2 years warranty on compressors and mainboards. Spare parts such as water pumps, drain heaters, and sensors are usually available upon request. Some provide technical support via email or video guidance. Confirm service terms before purchase, especially for remote diagnostics and replacement part shipping timelines.

What are common payment terms for first-time buyers?

Standard terms include 30% deposit with balance paid before shipment. New buyers may be required to use trade assurance or letter of credit for risk mitigation. Some suppliers accept PayPal or T/T transfers for sample orders. Negotiation leverage increases with order volume and long-term partnership intent.