The fastest way to sour on a new ice maker is to discover, after delivery, that it needs a floor drain you do not have. Gravity drainage only works when the machine sits above the drain point, which quietly rules out basement bars, converted garages, and island counters. A drain pump changes that equation by pushing meltwater up and away instead of waiting for it to fall.
Everything here comes from listing research rather than hands-on freezing. I compared stated daily output, bin capacity, pump lift, build materials, control layout, and cleaning instructions, then cross-referenced the ratings disclosed on each listing. Each pick carries a BHK Score built from those factors. One pattern showed up early: several listings are replacement pumps for Whirlpool family machines rather than complete ice makers, so I separated full machines from parts before comparing anything else.
My overall pick for best ice makers with drain pump is the ICYGLEE Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker. Its external electric drain pump is built for the exact situation that stalls most installations, a spot where gravity drainage is not an option, and the reversible door lets the unit sit either way in a counter run. My top picks are just below.
Our Top Picks
| Product | BHK Score | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall Icyglee Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker | 9.9 | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Best for Whirlpool Replacements CONGKAILU W11539855 Ice Machine Drain Pump | 9.8 | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Best for High Output Mojgar Commercial Ice Machine with 150 Lbs Daily | 9.8 | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Best for Flexible Installation EUHOMY Under Counter Ice Maker with 110 lbs Daily | 9.8 | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Best for Replacement Parts lsahgoe W11542868 Ice Maker Drain Pump Replacement | 9.6 | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Best for OEM Replacement GUOJINJISM 1901A Ice Maker Drain Pump Kit | 9.6 | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Best for 50-Lb Ice Makers Whirlpool 1901A Ice Machine Drain Pump Kit | 9.5 | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Best for Large Capacity ICEPURE 15 inch Built-in Ice Maker with 90 lbs | 9.5 | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Best for Compact Spaces ICEPURE 15 Inch Under Counter Ice Maker with 100 | 9.4 | Check Price on Amazon | |
Full Reviews
Icyglee ice maker produces up to 100lbs of clear ice daily with adjustable cube thickness and a 24lbs bin capacity.
Key Facts
- Capacity
- 24lbs bin
- Daily Ice Production
- 100lbs
- Dimensions
- 20.4 x 14.96 x 33.9 Inches
- Color
- Steel Silver
Pros
- +Large 100lbs daily ice production capacity
- +Built-in electric drain pump for versatile installation
- +Reversible door for flexible countertop or under-counter use
- +Automatic cleaning function for easy maintenance
Cons
- −Relatively tall height at 33.9 inches limits under-counter fit options
- −Limited color choice with only steel silver finish
- −Requires drain pipe placement below machine drain for best use
Detailed Review
This Icyglee under counter ice maker stands out with its 100lbs daily ice production and a 24lbs storage bin, making it suitable for bars, cafes, or busy home kitchens. The inclusion of an external electric drain pump is practical for spaces lacking gravity drainage, expanding installation options. The machine also offers an adjustable ice cube thickness, which lets you tailor ice size for cocktails or smoothies. I see this working best where clear ice and flexibility matter.
Worth knowing before you buy, the unit’s height at 33.9 inches may restrict fitting under some counters. The reversible door helps with placement but the machine is only available in steel silver. The automatic cleaning and timer functions reduce upkeep, which is useful for busy settings.
I'd consider this a reasonable pick for those needing large daily ice output with adaptable installation options and convenient maintenance features.
This CONGKAILU W11539855 is a replacement drain pump compatible with Whirlpool ice machines, capable of removing water up to 10 feet high.
Key Facts
- Dimensions
- 8 x 19.5 x 15 inches
Pros
- +Precise fit matching original Whirlpool equipment
- +High quality material construction reduces leak risk
- +Supports effective removal of excess water from ice machines
Cons
- −Bulky size may complicate installation in tight appliance spaces
- −Compatibility requires verification with specific Whirlpool models
Detailed Review
The CONGKAILU W11539855 drain pump is designed to replace several Whirlpool part numbers, ensuring a precise fit with compatible ice machines. Its capability to pump water up to 10 feet high is a practical feature for clearing melting ice efficiently. The pump's dimensions of 8 by 19.5 by 15 inches indicate a sizable unit that may require sufficient installation space.
I see this working best where exact replacement parts are needed to maintain appliance function and prevent leaks. The use of high quality materials reflects an effort to match original equipment standards, which is important for long-term compatibility.
Worth knowing before you buy is the necessity to confirm fit with your specific Whirlpool model to avoid installation issues. For my money, this suits a household needing a reliable pump replacement rather than a universal fix.
This Mojgar ice machine produces up to 150 lbs of square ice daily and stores 33 lbs in an insulated bin.
Key Facts
- Capacity
- 33 lbs bin, 150 lbs daily production
- Dimensions
- 14.9 x 15.7 x 29.8 Inches
- Material
- Stainless steel with fingerprint-resistant film
- Included
- Water filter
Pros
- +High output with 45 cubes every 10-18 minutes
- +33 lbs insulated bin slows ice melting
- +Quiet operation under 50 dB with air-cooled system
- +Self-cleaning function with easy control panel
Cons
- −Relatively large height at nearly 30 inches limits some spaces
- −No explicit certification for water safety or filtration quality
- −Single color option limits aesthetic choices
Detailed Review
This Mojgar ice machine stands out with its 150-pound daily ice production and a 33-pound insulated storage bin that fits under most counters. The included water filter helps reduce impurities whether connected to tap or bottled water, which adds installation flexibility. I see this model working best in home bars or small cafés that need steady ice supply without a large footprint.
It has a stainless steel exterior with a fingerprint-resistant film and runs quietly under 50 decibels thanks to its air-cooled system. The drain pump is a useful feature that allows wastewater to be pumped to elevated drains, supporting flexible placement.
Worth knowing before you buy, the unit is nearly 30 inches tall which may not fit all undercounter spaces. I rate this a reasonable pick for setups prioritizing daily ice volume and installation options.
This EUHOMY ice maker produces up to 110 lbs of clear ice daily with a 33 lbs storage bin and includes an external drain pump for flexible installation.
Key Facts
- Capacity
- 110 lbs/day
- Storage Bin
- 33 lbs
- Dimensions
- 17.32 x 16.93 x 31.5 Inches
Pros
- +High ice output of 110 lbs per day
- +External drain pump for versatile drain setups
- +Advanced water filter ensures clearer ice cubes
- +Multi-function LCD panel simplifies control and monitoring
Cons
- −Relatively large size may not suit very small kitchens
- −Requires water supply and drain connection for operation
Detailed Review
The EUHOMY Under Counter Ice Maker stands out with its 110 lbs daily ice production and a 33 lbs built-in storage bin, supporting steady ice availability during busy hours. Its external drain pump is a practical addition that allows installation where standard gravity drainage isn't possible, which I find useful for undercounter setups lacking floor drains. The control panel offers adjustable ice cube size and a self-cleaning function, adding operational flexibility.
Worth knowing before you buy, the unit needs a dedicated water supply and drain connection and should be kept upright for 24 hours before initial use. I see this ice maker working best in home bars or small commercial settings that can accommodate its 17.3 by 16.9-inch footprint. Overall, it suits users seeking dependable ice production with installation versatility.
The lsahgoe W11542868 is an ABS drain pump replacement part for Whirlpool and related ice makers.
Key Facts
- Material
- ABS
- Compatibility
- Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Kenmore, Jenn-Air, Amana
- Dimensions
- 2.7 x 1.7 x 2.6 Inches
- Connector
- 2-pin plug
Pros
- +Compatibility with Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Kenmore, Jenn-Air, Amana
- +Durable ABS material resists corrosion and wear
- +Simple 2-pin plug design for easy DIY replacement
Cons
- −Limited to specific model numbers requiring careful compatibility check
- −Small size may be difficult to handle for some installers
Detailed Review
The lsahgoe W11542868 drain pump replacement is made from high-quality ABS material which offers good durability, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance for ice maker drainage. It measures 2.7 by 1.7 by 2.6 inches, making its footprint small enough to fit into the drainage system of compatible ice maker models.
I see this pump working best for those with Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Kenmore, Jenn-Air, or Amana ice makers since it covers a wide range of replacement part numbers. The plug-and-play 2-pin connector simplifies installation so homeowners can avoid professional service calls.
Worth knowing before you buy is the need to verify your appliance’s model and original part number carefully since this pump is not universal. I rate this a reasonable pick for users seeking a direct drain pump replacement for specific ice maker models.
This GUOJINJISM drain pump kit fits 50-lb ice makers and lifts meltwater up to 10 feet.
Key Facts
- Size
- 18.9 x 15.94 x 7.28 Inches
Pros
- +High-grade materials for reliable leak-free operation
- +Wide compatibility with popular ice maker models
- +Simple plug-and-play design for easy installation
Cons
- −Moderate size may not suit very compact spaces
- −No stated electrical wattage or power rating available
Detailed Review
The GUOJINJISM 1901A pump kit is engineered to OEM specifications delivering a precision fit for 50-lb ice makers made since 2000. Its notable feature is the 10-foot lift capability that helps efficiently remove meltwater, which reduces risks of overflow or moisture buildup in the machine. I see this working best for households or small businesses using compatible Whirlpool or similar brand ice makers since it replaces several common part numbers.
Installation is straightforward with a plug-and-play design requiring just basic tools and no complex wiring. Worth knowing before you buy is the moderate physical size which could be a challenge for very tight spaces. For my money, this suits those prioritizing OEM compatibility and straightforward replacement over compact design.
This Whirlpool drain pump kit removes excess melt water and fits most 50-lb ice makers from 2000 onward.
Key Facts
- Dimensions
- 15.07 x 7.82 x 19.63 Inches
- Weight
- 7.93 pounds
Pros
- +Engineered for reliable OEM performance
- +Capable of pumping melt water vertically up to 10 feet
- +Fits a wide range of 50-lb ice machines from 2000 onward
Cons
- −Bulky dimensions may require ample installation space
- −Limited to ice makers with 50-lb capacity and newer models
Detailed Review
The Whirlpool 1901A drain pump kit is specifically engineered to support many 50-lb ice makers produced since 2000. Its design targets efficient removal of excess melt water by pumping it up to 10 feet high, which helps maintain cleaner operation and proper drainage. This pump replaces several part numbers, simplifying compatibility checks across multiple models.
I see this working best for homes or setups with undercounter ice machines needing reliable OEM parts rather than aftermarket substitutes. Worth knowing before you buy is the pump's sizable footprint of about 15 by 8 by 20 inches, which could demand adequate space for installation. Its genuine Whirlpool build aims for consistent performance aligned with original appliance standards.
For my money, this suits those prioritizing exact OEM replacement and who operate 50-lb ice machines from the last two decades.
ICEPURE built-in ice maker produces up to 90 lbs of ice daily with a 26 lbs storage basket in stainless steel.
Key Facts
- Capacity
- 90 lbs/24H Production, 26 lbs Storage
- Dimensions
- 18.7 x 14.96 x 33.9 inches
- Material
- Stainless Steel with Food-grade Inner Layer
- Function
- 24H Timer and Auto-Cleaning
Pros
- +Large 26 lbs ice basket for extended storage
- +Food-grade inner layer with stainless steel outer shell
- +24-hour timer for scheduled ice production
- +Automatic self-cleaning function reduces maintenance effort
Cons
- −Footprint depth near 34 inches may limit small kitchen placement
- −No wattage or power consumption details provided
- −Limited color option with only silver gray finish
Detailed Review
This ICEPURE built-in ice maker stands out with its 90 lbs daily ice production and a sizable 26 lbs storage basket suited for busy kitchens or commercial settings. The stainless steel exterior paired with a food-grade inner layer offers durable protection and cold insulation. I see this working best for kitchens needing reliable, scheduled ice supply thanks to its 24-hour timer and automatic shutoff when full.
Adjustable ice thickness allows customization between 12 and 18 minutes per cycle, which affects the cube size. Worth knowing before you buy is its relatively deep 33.9-inch height, which may restrict installation in smaller under-counter spaces. The built-in drainage pump eases water removal and cleaning, although power usage details are not provided.
I'd consider this a reasonable pick for those prioritizing large capacity and flexible installation over compact size or multiple color options.
This ICEPURE under counter ice maker offers a 100-pound daily capacity with a compact 15-inch wide stainless steel design.
Key Facts
- Capacity
- 100 lbs per day
- Dimensions
- 18.7 x 14.96 x 33.9 inches
- Material
- Stainless Steel
- Certification
- ETL & FCC
Pros
- +Slim 15-inch footprint for tight spaces
- +High 100 lbs per day ice production
- +Remote control via smartphone app
- +Automatic cleaning cycle with alerts
Cons
- −Relatively large 33.9-inch height limits undercounter fit
- −No specific wattage or power consumption stated
- −Limited color options to stainless steel and black
Detailed Review
The ICEPURE under counter ice maker stands out with a 15-inch wide footprint that fits under standard counters or inside RVs while delivering up to 100 pounds of ice per day. It produces 40 cubes every 10 to 18 minutes and stores 26 pounds of ice in its built-in bin, which should cover busy gatherings or commercial shifts.
I see this working best for kitchens needing high ice output in a compact space. The unit offers smart features like WiFi app control for remote adjustments and a one-touch auto-clean function with status alerts, easing day-to-day use.
Worth knowing before you buy is the relatively tall 33.9-inch height, which might not fit all undercounter spaces. For my money, this suits households or small commercial settings where ice volume and footprint are top priorities.
FAQs
What does a drain pump do on an ice maker?
A drain pump moves the meltwater that collects inside the bin out to a drain line, including drain points positioned above the machine. Gravity units can only shed water downward, which limits where they can sit. In a basement bar or an island where the drain sits high, the pump is what makes the install possible at all. Check the listed lift height and read the manual before you commit to a location.
Can you adjust the size of the ice cubes?
Cube thickness is adjustable on most of these machines by lengthening or shortening the freeze cycle, so a longer cycle produces a thicker, slower-melting cube. Thick cubes suit whiskey and cocktails that sit a while, while thin ones chill a full pitcher faster. If you want chewable ice rather than cubes, that is a different machine class, and my guide to nugget ice makers covers the trade-off.
Do you need a plumbed water line for an under-counter ice maker?
A water connection is required on every complete machine in this group, and most accept either a direct tap line or a bottled-water setup through a self-priming system. That second option matters in a garage or pool house where running plumbing is awkward. Drain routing still has to reach a suitable drain point, so trace that path and measure it before ordering.
When should you replace the drain pump instead of the whole ice maker?
Replacing the pump makes sense when the machine still freezes and drops cubes but water pools in the bin, drains slowly, or overflows. A machine that has stopped cooling has a different problem, and no pump will fix it. Match the part number to your model, disconnect power before starting, and let the manufacturer’s manual guide the job.
Final Thoughts
Two things decide whether you end up happy here: whether the drain can physically reach your drain point, and whether you are shopping for a machine or a part. Daily output and bin size matter, but they matter less than a pump that suits the installation and a unit that fits the space you actually have.
For most buyers who need a complete machine, the ICYGLEE Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker is the pick. It carries the highest stated daily output in the group along with a roomy bin, and the external pump is designed for spots where gravity drainage is not an option, which is the problem most home bars run into. The LCD panel with low-water and bin-full reminders, plus the reversible door, make it easier to live with in a compact counter run. It suits a serious home bar, a cafe back counter, or anyone who hosts often enough that a countertop unit cannot keep up. It is also the most expensive route in this roundup, so a light user with counter space to spare may not need it.
If your existing Whirlpool family machine still makes ice but will not drain properly, the W11542868 Ice Maker Drain Pump Replacement is the value play. It is the least expensive item here, uses a two-pin plug-and-play connector, and is aimed squarely at water accumulation, slow drainage, and overflow. Verify your appliance model and original part number before ordering, since fitment is the whole game with replacement parts. The right call removes one specific question from your kitchen planning: where the meltwater actually goes.