Scotsman CU50GA Undercounter Ice Maker - Gourmet Cube Quality

In this review of the Scotsman CU50GA Undercounter Ice Maker the bottom line is simple: it is for operators and serious home entertainers who need clear, slow-melting gourmet cubes in a compact footprint. The machine produces up to about 64 lb. of ice per 24 hours and stores roughly 26 lb., making it a dependable undercounter option where ice clarity and taste neutrality matter. The review emphasizes the machine's ice quality and water-quality sensor as the single biggest reasons to choose it for bars, restaurants, or an upscale home bar.

Key Features

• Production Capacity: Produces up to 64 lb. of gourmet cube ice in 24 hours, providing steady supply for small commercial or heavy home use.
• Compact Footprint: A 14.9 in cabinet width fits tight undercounter locations without sacrificing storage or production capability.
• Ice Quality: Makes crystal-clear, uniquely shaped cubes that melt slowly and stay taste-free and odorless, preserving drink flavor.
• Water-Quality Sensor: Detects hard water and purges mineral-laden water each harvest cycle to reduce scale buildup and extend time between cleanings.
• User Controls: A simple control panel shows power status, alerts no-water conditions, and gives a time-to-clean reminder for easier maintenance.
• Installation Flexibility: Air-cooled design with front-breathing vents allows placement against walls with no side clearance required.

Who It's For

The CU50GA is best for small restaurants, coffee shops, hotel bars, and dedicated home bars that need high-quality gourmet cubes without a large machine footprint. The combination of steady 24-hour production and a 26 lb. storage capacity covers typical service periods for venues with moderate ice demand.

Those who should look elsewhere include very high-volume operations that need hundreds of pounds per day or facilities that cannot tolerate the reported occasional noise level. Also consider a different model if gravity drain plumbing is not compatible with your space.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Produces clear, slow-melting gourmet cubes that preserve beverage flavor and presentation.
• Compact 14.9 in width saves valuable undercounter space while still offering meaningful daily production.
• Water-quality sensor and periodic purge reduce mineral buildup and simplify maintenance cycles.
• Front-breathing, air-cooled design allows flexible placement with no side clearance required.

Cons

• Some users report the unit is louder than expected for an undercounter appliance, which may matter in quiet environments.
• Installation and functionality received mixed feedback, so professional plumbing or electrical setup may be advisable.

Specifications

Model	CU50GA Undercounter Ice Maker
Production (24 hr)	Up to 64 lb. (65 lb @ 70/50; 49 lb @ 90/70)
Storage Capacity	26 lb.
Dimensions	14.9 in W x 22 in D x 34.4 in H
Electrical	115V/60Hz/1-ph, 14.4 Amp (15 Amp circuit required)
Condenser	Air cooled, front-breathing vents
Drain	Gravity drain with cord

Our Verdict

The Scotsman CU50GA is a strong choice for anyone who prioritizes crystal-clear, slow-melting gourmet cubes in a compact undercounter package. It offers sensible production and a helpful water-quality sensor that reduces maintenance, making it a good value for small commercial venues and serious home bars, provided noise and installation requirements are acceptable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much ice does this unit produce in a day?
The CU50GA produces up to about 64 lb. of gourmet cube ice in 24 hours, with production varying by ambient and water temperatures.

Can it be installed flush against a wall?
Yes, the air-cooled, front-breathing design requires no side clearance and allows flexible placement against a wall.

How does the unit handle hard water?
A built-in water-quality sensor detects hard water conditions and purges mineral-laden water with each harvest to help reduce scale and extend cleaning intervals.