Ice Makers -
Guide to Choosing the Perfect One
Ice makers are a wonderful luxury appliance for any modern kitchen. Having a constant supply of fresh ice at your fingertips makes it easy to keep drinks cold, create beautiful cocktails, and even use ice to help keep foods fresh. But with so many different types and models on the market, choosing the right ice maker can be overwhelming. This guide will cover everything you need to know about ice makers to make an informed purchasing decision.
Understanding Ice Makers
What is an Ice Maker?
There are three main types of ice makers designed for residential use:
An ice maker is a kitchen appliance designed to automatically produce and store a fresh supply of ice. It works by taking in water, freezing it into ice cubes or nuggets, and storing that ice in an insulated bin or bucket until you need it.
Ice makers make it incredibly convenient to have ice on hand at all times without having to manually fill and freeze ice cube trays. This endless supply of fresh ice means you always have it ready for keeping drinks cold, making smoothies, stocking coolers, or any other uses you may have.
Countertop Ice Makers
Countertop or portable ice makers are freestanding units that can sit right on your kitchen counter or any other level surface. Since they don’t require permanent installation, these are extremely flexible and easy to move around as needed.
Countertop models make a great option for smaller kitchens, homes without built-in ice makers, outdoor kitchens, basements, or really anywhere you want a self-contained ice supply. Most produce between 20-50 lbs of ice per day with an insulated ice bucket that can store 1-3 lbs at a time.
One of the biggest advantages of countertop units is their compact size, making them easy to fit into even tiny spaces. The downside is their relatively low production capacity compared to built-in models.
Built-In Ice Makers
Built-in ice makers are designed to integrate seamlessly into your kitchen cabinetry, usually installed alongside or attached to your refrigerator. Since they connect directly to your home’s water line, built-in models tend to be higher capacity than portable units, commonly producing 50-100 lbs of ice per day.
The ice is stored in the freezer compartment of the fridge or in a separate insulated ice bin. This allows for much higher storage capacity than countertop models – some up to 25 lbs of ice at a time.
Built-in ice makers offer a sleek, streamlined look to match your kitchen aesthetic, and the high-volume production is ideal for larger households. However, they do require professional installation.
Undercounter Ice Makers
Similar to built-in models, undercounter ice makers are designed for integration – but instead of installing alongside the fridge, they fit neatly beneath the counter. This makes them extremely versatile for placement in a kitchen, basement bar, wet bar, or really any room with a water line and exhaust vent.
Undercounter ice makers have a freestanding look while still being built-in for a permanent installation. Most produce between 50-100 lbs of ice per day, rivaling the capacity of refrigerator ice makers while giving you more flexibility on location.
No matter which type of ice maker you choose, you’ll enjoy on-demand convenience and never worry about running out of ice again. The key is finding the right capacity, installation type, and style to fit seamlessly into your home and kitchen layout.
Features & Benefits
Features to Consider
Once you’ve decided on the general type of ice maker – countertop, built-in or undercounter – there are several other important features to weigh in your decision:
Ice Production Capacity
This is arguably the most critical spec to consider. Ice makers are rated by their daily ice production rate, measured in pounds (lbs). Evaluate your household’s ice usage needs to find the right capacity:
- 1-2 people: 20-35 lbs/day
- 3-4 people: 30-50 lbs/day
- 5+ people: 50+ lbs/day
Higher capacities up to 100 lbs per day are ideal for large families, entertaining, or commercial use.
Ice Shape/Type
The shape or “type” of ice cubes produced varies between crescent, nugget, and classic cube shapes. Each has its own pros and cons in terms of texture, density, and speciality uses:
- Cubes - The classic, versatile, easy-to-chew shape.
- Nuggets - Soft, crunchy, and fast-chilling thanks to higher surface area.
- Crescent - Unique crescent/half-circle shape with a softer chew.
Consider how you’ll primarily use the ice to decide which shape is most appealing.
Ice Storage Capacity
In addition to production rate, built-in and portable models have an insulated bin for storing the produced ice. Capacities typically range from 1.5 lbs all the way up to 25-30 lbs for refrigerator ice makers. Higher storage allows you to keep a bigger reserve without recycling melted ice.
Water Supply
Portable units require periodic manual refilling of the water tank, while built-in and undercounter models connect directly to a water line for automatic water feed. Built-in is generally more convenient, but portable works for renters or homes without water line access.
Smart Capabilities
Some of the newer, higher-end models offer smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, voice controls, and automatic sensing to initiate fresh ice production when supplies are low.
Size & Installation
Built-in and undercounter models are measured by height, width and depth for kitchen integration. Portable versions vary in form factor – some tall and slim, others wider and curved. Measure installation locations carefully.
Villagoods Pick
Popular Ice Makers
Opal Nugget Ice Maker
The Opal from GE is a compact, portable countertop model that has developed an almost cult-like following for its ability to produce incredibly fresh, crunchy, and chewy nugget ice. Often compared to the coveted nugget ice from Sonic restaurants.
It produces up to 24 lbs of nugget ice per day with a 3 lb hopper capacity, making it ideal for households of 1-4 people. The Opal is also one of the first ice makers with smart capabilities, allowing you to schedule fresh ice cycles and monitor status from your phone.
While on the higher end at around $500, the Opal’s nugget ice quality and smart features make it a top choice for nugget ice lovers. Downsides are its smaller capacity and higher cost compared to other portable models.
GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker 2.0
GE has updated their popular nugget machine even further with smart improvements in the new 2.0 version. It produces denser, more formidable nuggets with increased daily output up to 24 lbs per day and a larger 3 lb hopper.
The real star is the smart capabilities – it connects via WiFi to the SmartHQ app to automatically initiate fresh ice production when supplies are low, set schedules, and enable voice control through Alexa and Google Home. You can always have fresh ice ready when you need it.
At around $650, the 2.0 is an investment but the improvements in nugget quality and smart tech make it a compelling option for modern, connected kitchens.
Frigidaire EFIC108 Built-In Ice Maker
For those looking for a quality built-in option, the EFIC108 from Frigidaire is hard to beat on features and value. It produces up to 80 lbs per day of classic, compact ice cubes.
Installation is simple with side or front venting capabilities to fit most kitchens. The functional design includes a smudge-proof stainless exterior, interior ice bucket lighting, and flush installation for a seamless look.
At just over $500, the EFIC108 offers commercial-level ice production at an affordable price for a built-in model. Perfect for large families or entertainers who prefer that classic cube shape.
Scotsman Undercounter Ice Maker
For serious ice production power, Scotsman brings its commercial-quality machines into the home with this stellar undercounter unit. It produces up to an impressive 65 lbs per day of Scotsman’s uniquely dense, “nugget” style ice.
Installation is truly built-in with a sealed combustion system for exhaust and the ability to be located virtually anywhere with a nearby water line and floor drain. The reservoir stores up to 26 lbs of ice at a time.
With its high-end stainless exterior, drainage system, and superior undercounter design, the Scotsman delivers top-of-the-line ice making performance worthy of its higher $1,500+ price point. An investment, but a phenomenal choice for serious ice lovers.
Care tips
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
To keep your ice maker functioning at peak performance and producing fresh, clean ice, proper maintenance is crucial. Here are some important tips:
Clean the Ice Bin Regularly
Any spills or debris in the ice bin can lead to odor, contamination, and potentially even mold growth over time. Aim to clean the bin at least once a month:
- Turn off or disconnect the ice maker and allow any remaining ice to melt/defrost completely.
- Remove the bin and wash it with a mild detergent and warm water.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before reinstalling.
This helps prevent buildup and keeps the bin sanitary for fresh ice storage.
Clean the Water Lines/Supply (Built-In Models)
For built-in and undercounter units connected to a water supply line, flushing the lines regularly is recommended. Any sediment or particles can potentially clog or contaminate the ice maker over time.
Consult your model’s manual, but most suggest unplugging the unit, disconnecting the water line, and flushing 1-2 gallons of water through it every 6 months.
Replace Water Filters
Any ice maker that connects to a water supply line should have its filter changed every 6 months. This ensures impurities and contaminants don’t make it into the ice supply.
Portable ice makers may have built-in filters that require less frequent changing, such as yearly. Always reference your manual for replacement schedules.
Clean Internal Components
Beyond the bin, built-up scale, mineral deposits, and bacteria can accumulate on internal components like the ice maker tray or ejector arm. Plan to do a deeper clean at least once every 6 months:
- Unplug the ice maker and allow any remaining ice to fully melt/defrost.
- Following the manual instructions, disassemble components like the ice tray, ejector arm, etc.
- Soak components in a cleaning solution of 10% vinegar/90% water for 5-10 minutes.
- Use a soft-bristle brush or cloth to gently scrub away any mineral buildup or debris.
- Rinse thoroughly with fresh water and dry fully before reassembling.Use a soft-bristle brush or cloth to gently scrub away any mineral buildup or debris.
Using a cleaning solution specifically designed for ice makers can also help cut through buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
By understanding key considerations like production rate, installation type, ice shapes, storage capacity and maintenance needs, you can find the perfect ice maker for your household’s unique needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any other questions!
Countertop/portable ice makers are compact freestanding units that simply need to be plugged in, while built-in models are designed for permanent installation alongside your kitchen refrigerator. Built-in units tend to have higher production capacities and connect directly to your home’s water line.
Estimate 20-35 lbs per day for 1-2 people, 30-50 lbs for 3-4 people, and 50+ lbs for larger households of 5 or more. Those who entertain frequently may want a higher capacity as well.
The most common ice shapes are classic cubes, crunchy nuggets, and crescent/half-moon shapes. Nuggets are soft and chewy while cubes are dense and easy to chew. Consider how you’ll use the ice to decide which you prefer.
Portable countertop models typically store between 1-3 lbs at a time, while larger built-in units can store up to 25-30 lbs in their integrated ice buckets/dispensers. Higher storage lets you keep a bigger reserve.
No, portable countertop units have a water reservoir that needs to be manually refilled periodically. Built-in and undercounter models connect directly to a dedicated water line.
Built-in models are measured for height, width and depth to ensure proper fitment between cabinets. Undercounter units also need clearance space underneath for exhaust ventilation.
For any units connected to a water line, the filters should be replaced every 6 months. This prevents contaminants from entering the ice supply. Check your manual for your model’s filter schedules.
The ice bin should be removed and cleaned monthly. Deeper semi-annual cleaning involves washing internal components and flushing water supply lines. Always consult your owner’s manual for proper cleaning guidance.
Newer portable models like the GE Opal and Opal 2.0 offer WiFi connectivity, app control, voice commands, and smart sensors to automatically initiate ice production.