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Hoshizaki

Hoshizaki KM-231BAJ, Crescent Cuber Ice Maker, Air-Cooled, Built in Storage Bin

  • Ice Maker
  • 80 pounds
  • Stainless Steel
  • 1
5.0/ 5 on Amazon5Amazon ratings2.7ProductDome score
  • Better rated than 91%
Limited evidenceLast refreshed Jun 12, 2026Amazon data + ProductDome analysis · methodology
Best forYou need a self-contained under-counter ice maker for a small bar or break room

A compact, low-maintenance under-counter ice maker that fits where a full-size modular system would not, backed by Hoshizaki's known reliability.

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More from this brandAll Hoshizaki ice makers
ProductDome scorecard

How it ranks among the 114 ice makers we track

2.7/ 5ProductDome scoreLimited evidence
Owner satisfaction · 63% of scorecategory median 4.2★4.2

5.0★ across 5 Amazon ratings, Bayesian-smoothed toward the category average.

Evidence strength · 19% of scorecategory median 163 ratings1.0

5 Amazon ratings, weighted on a log scale so huge counts don't drown everything.

Data quality · 13% of score5.0

Brand identity, imagery, description and spec coverage.

The ProductDome score is separate from the Amazon rating shown above: it combines the Bayesian-smoothed Amazon rating with evidence volume, tracked demand, and data quality across the 114 ice makers we track - how the scorecard works · full ice makers data report. Confidence: limited - limited rating history.Last refreshed Jun 12, 2026. Data-computed, not a hands-on test. Compiled by the ProductDome Research Team.

Overview

The Hoshizaki KM-231BAJ is an undercounter crescent ice maker with a built-in storage bin, producing roughly 213 lbs of ice per day and holding up to 80 lbs on hand. Its compact air-cooled design suits small bars, hotel lobbies and office break rooms where a full modular system would not fit.

This model replaces the older KM-230BAJ and adds Hoshizaki's CycleSaver design along with an EverCheck alert system that flags maintenance needs before a breakdown. It runs on a standard 115v circuit with a NEMA 5-15 plug, so it does not need the dedicated wiring larger modular units require. Airflow moves front-in, front-out, which matters when planning where it sits since it cannot be recessed with sealed sides.

  • Produces approximately 213 lbs of crescent ice per day
  • Built-in bin stores up to 80 lbs of ice
  • 115v/60Hz, NEMA 5-15 plug, 6.5 ft cord
  • CycleSaver design with EverCheck alert system

Who it's for

Good for small bars, break rooms and hotel lobbies that want a self-contained under-counter unit rather than a separate head-and-bin system. Larger venues needing several hundred pounds a day should look at a bigger modular Hoshizaki instead.

What buyers say

From Amazon customer reviews.

Owners describe it as easy to operate and producing good-quality ice, with one long-term user reporting over a decade of reliable service including outdoor use in South Florida heat. One reviewer noted the unit sits lower than expected and needed a stone footing, and another mentioned the delivery experience was smoother than anticipated.

Strengths and trade-offs

Drawn from this product's published specifications.

What stands out
  • Self-contained design with built-in 80 lb storage bin
  • Undercounter footprint fits small bars and break rooms
  • EverCheck alert system flags maintenance needs
  • Standard 115v plug, no dedicated commercial wiring required
What to check first
  • Some owners had to add a footing since the unit sits low
  • 213 lbs/day output is modest next to full modular ice machines
  • Needs front clearance for its front-in, front-out airflow

Specifications

BrandHoshizaki
ModelKM-231BAJ
Dimensions & fit
Item Dimensions D x W x H28 × 24 × 39 inches
Capacity & performance
Capacity80 pounds
Power & efficiency
Voltage127 volts
Construction & materials
Material TypeStainless Steel
Included components
Unit Count1
Included ComponentsHoshizaki KM-231BAJ, Crescent Cuber Ice Maker, Air-Cooled, Built in Storage Bin
Other details
RefrigerantR404a
Ice Production per Day213 Pounds
Part NumberKM-231BAJ

How it compares

This product against the closest alternatives we track in ice makers.

ProductAmazon ratingRatingsProductDome score
Hoshizaki KM-231BAJ, Crescent Cuber Ice Maker, Air-Cooled, Built in Storage BinThis product5.0 / 552.7 / 5
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice MakerFrigidaire4.4 / 516,9104.3 / 5
EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker CountertopEUHOMY4.4 / 54,6604.3 / 5
GoveeLife Smart Countertop Ice MakersGoveeLife4.3 / 52,1994.2 / 5
Deco Rapid Portable Automatic Electric Countertop Ice MakerDeco Gear4.4 / 52,2004.1 / 5
Frequently asked

Questions about the Hoshizaki KM-231BAJ

Common buyer questions answered straight from the product spec data - no fluff, no "it depends".

Does the KM-231BAJ need special electrical wiring?

No, it plugs into a standard 115v/60Hz outlet using a NEMA 5-15 plug and 6.5 foot cord, unlike larger modular ice machines.

How much ice can it store versus produce?

It produces about 213 lbs of crescent ice per 24 hours and its built-in bin holds up to 80 lbs at a time.

What does the EverCheck system do?

It is Hoshizaki's built-in alert system that flags when the machine needs cleaning or service, aimed at catching maintenance issues early.