Ice making machine prices in South Africa vary widely depending on the type, capacity, and condition of the unit. You can find a basic countertop model for around R1,300, while a large commercial-grade machine can cost over R80,000. Below is a breakdown of current prices based on the most recent available data from local retailers.
Ice Making Machine Prices In South Africa
Price Summary Table
| Model / Capacity | Type | Condition | Price (ZAR) | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Generic Portable Ice Maker (12kg/24h) | Countertop | New | R1,666 | Amazon.co.za |
| Zero Appliances IM20 (20kg/24h) | Countertop | Used | R1,299 | Cash Converters |
| Russell Hobbs 12kg Ice Maker | Countertop | Used | R1,599 | Cash Converters |
| Goldair 30kg Ice Maker (GIM-30) | Mid-Size | Used | R3,299 | Cash Converters |
| Novaim-25 (25kg/24h) | Mid-Size | Used | R6,499 | Cash Converters |
| Snomaster ZBC20 (20kg capacity) | Commercial | New | R9,200 | Makro |
| Columba SK-120P (55kg/24h) | Commercial | Used | R10,999 | Cash Converters |
| SnoMaster SMIC-30S (30kg/24h) | Commercial Plumbed | New | R26,299 | Hirsch’s |
| Commercial Ice Machine (308kg/24h) | Industrial | New | R81,127 | Want It All |
Detailed Model Breakdown
Entry-Level & Countertop Ice Makers
Zero Appliances IM20 Bullet Ice Maker
Price: R1,299
Capacity: Produces 20kg of bullet-shaped ice in 24 hours
Features: This is a compact, used unit suitable for home use or small gatherings. It has a 2.8L water tank and can make 12 ice cubes per batch. The unit has a stylish digital control panel and an energy-saving automatic switch-off function when the ice tray is full.
Best for: Home kitchens, braais, and small parties.
Portable Ice Maker Machine (12kg/24h)
Price: R1,666
Capacity: Produces 12kg of ice per day
Features: This new model makes 9 ice cubes in about 6 minutes and allows you to choose between two ice cube sizes. It also includes a self-cleaning feature.
Best for: Camping, home bars, and small entertainment spaces.
Russell Hobbs 12kg Ice Maker
Price: R1,599
Capacity: 12kg of ice per day
Condition: Used
Best for: General home use and entertaining.
Mid-Range & High-Capacity Makers
Goldair 30kg Ice Maker (GIM-30)
Price: R3,299
Capacity: 30kg of ice per 24 hours
Condition: Used
Best for: Small bars, restaurants, or frequent home entertaining.
Novaim-25 Automatic Ice Maker
Price: R6,499
Capacity: 25kg per 24 hours
Condition: Used
Features: It has a 240W compressor and produces clear, square ice cubes (approximately 8 grams each). An infrared auto-stop sensor pauses production when the storage bin is full.
Best for: Consistent, medium-volume commercial or home use.
Commercial & Industrial Machines
Snomaster ZBC20 Ice Maker
Price: R9,200 (was R10,000)
Capacity: 20kg storage capacity
Condition: New
Best for: Hotels and commercial spaces.
Columba SK-120P Ice Machine
Price: R10,999
Capacity: Up to 55kg of ice per 24 hours
Condition: Used
Best for: Small restaurants, bars, or large entertainment events.
SnoMaster SMIC-30S Gourmet Ice Maker
Price: R26,299.99
Capacity: 30kg per 24 hours
Type: Plumbed-in unit
Features: Produces octagon-shaped “gourmet” ice. It comes with a 12kg storage bin, internal LED control panel, and a built-in drain pump.
Best for: Bars, restaurants, and hospitality kitchens.
Commercial Ice Machine (680LBS/24H)
Price: R81,127
Capacity: 308kg (680lbs) of ice per day
Features: This large unit includes a storage bin that holds up to 254kg (560lbs) of ice and is shipped from the USA (10-20 working days).
Best for: Large-scale industrial use, such as busy restaurants, bars, and large events.
Why an Ice Making Machine Is a Great Investment
Investing in an ice making machine can be a smart financial decision for both home and business use. The benefits extend far beyond the convenience of having ice on demand, offering both practical and financial returns.
Cost Savings Over Time
One of the most compelling reasons to invest in an ice maker is the long-term cost savings. For businesses that regularly purchase bagged ice, the cost of buying ice from retailers adds up quickly. A small commercial machine may pay for itself within months of regular use, especially for a busy restaurant, bar, or catering company. For home users, it eliminates the need to buy expensive bagged ice for parties, barbecues, or entertaining, making it a cost-effective solution for anyone who frequently hosts gatherings.
Convenience and Time Savings
Having an ice maker at home means you will never run out of ice during a party or family gathering. There is no need to make last-minute trips to the store to buy bags of ice. Most machines can produce a batch of ice in just 6 to 10 minutes, providing ice on demand whenever you need it. This convenience not only saves time but also eliminates the stress of running out of ice at crucial moments.
Health and Hygiene
Homemade ice is generally safer and more hygienic than commercially bagged ice, as you control the water quality and the cleanliness of the machine. Many commercial machines now feature self-cleaning functions and antimicrobial materials, ensuring that the ice you serve is pure and safe. This is particularly important for businesses serving food and beverages, where health and safety standards are paramount.
Enhanced Business Appeal
For restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and hotels, having an ice maker on-site is not just a convenience—it is an operational necessity. A dedicated machine allows for consistent availability of ice, better workflow, and the ability to produce different ice types, such as gourmet octagonal cubes, which enhance the presentation of premium drinks. A professional ice maker can also be a selling point for customers, signaling that the business values quality and convenience.
Versatility and Quality
Different ice making machines offer varying ice shapes and sizes, from bullet-shaped ice to clear gourmet cubes. This versatility allows you to match the ice to the beverage, enhancing the presentation and quality of drinks. Clear ice, for example, melts slower and is highly sought after in premium cocktail bars and upscale restaurants, adding a touch of sophistication that customers notice.
Return on Investment
The initial investment in an ice making machine is quickly offset by the savings from not buying bagged ice. For commercial ventures, even a mid-range machine can pay for itself within a year of operation, while for home users, the convenience and savings over time make it a worthwhile addition. Additionally, a well-maintained machine can serve your business or home for many years, providing a reliable return on investment.
Additional Revenue Streams
For businesses, owning an ice making machine also opens up the opportunity to sell ice to other local businesses or directly to customers. Many restaurants and bars generate supplementary income by supplying ice to nearby establishments, turning the machine into a revenue-generating asset beyond its primary function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cheapest ice making machine in South Africa?
A: The cheapest option currently listed is a used Zero Appliances IM20 at Cash Converters for R1,299, followed closely by a used Russell Hobbs model at R1,599.
Q: Why are commercial ice makers so expensive?
A: Commercial machines are built with more powerful compressors (e.g., 240W) and durable materials, such as stainless steel, to handle high demand. They are also designed for continuous, heavy-duty use and often feature larger storage bins and faster production cycles.
Q: Is it cheaper to buy new or used?
A: A used machine from a reputable source like Cash Converters can offer significant savings. For example, a used Goldair 30kg unit is priced at R3,299, while similar new commercial units cost significantly more. However, ensure you check the unit’s condition and warranty.
Q: What is the difference between a portable and a plumbed-in ice maker?
A: A portable unit, like the Zero Appliances IM20, requires you to manually fill a water tank. A plumbed-in unit, such as the SnoMaster SMIC-30S, connects directly to your water supply for automatic refilling, making it more convenient for continuous, high-volume use.
Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change based on retailer promotions, stock availability, and market conditions. Always verify current pricing directly with the retailer before purchasing.