Choose the Best Countertop Ice Maker

A countertop ice maker is a compact appliance that performs the same function as a built-in ice maker in a freezer. However, whereas a freezer ice maker has a permanent water line that constantly supplies the freezing components, a countertop ice maker uses a reservoir that must be manually filled. A countertop ice maker works by pumping water into to a freezing compartment where metal prongs lower the temperature of the water to form ice. After the ice has solidified, the prongs heat up briefly to release the ice, where it falls into a storage compartment.

Here’s a quick list of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best ice maker machine for your home:

• Size: Like most appliances, countertop icemakers come in difference sizes. Before purchasing one, be sure the model makes enough ice in one cycle to meet your needs. If it produces too little ice, it will take longer to stock up for an event. If it produces too much, you may have trouble finding room in your freezer to store leftovers.
• Ice Production Rate: This is a measure of how quickly a machine can make a batch of ice. The higher the production rate, the sooner you can enjoy cold drinks. If you frequently host a lot of impromptu gatherings at your home, a machine that can produce ice very quickly is helpful.
• Type of Ice Produced: Before investing in a countertop ice maker, be sure it makes the type of ice you want, whether that’s cubed ice, nugget (or pebble) ice, or clear ice. Some machines are even capable of producing more than one variety.
• Energy Efficiency: As with any appliance, choosing an energy-saving model can help minimize your monthly energy bill.
• Price: When shopping around for an ice maker, it’s helpful to have a budget in mind. Consider how often you’ll use your machine and what type of features are absolute requirements when thinking about how much to spend.

Keeping an ice maker running smoothly and efficiently requires regular maintenance. Because water flows through the inner workings of this device, mold and bacteria can grow very quickly if it isn’t cleaned regularly. Before using your ice maker, be sure to check the owner’s manual to determine the best way to clean it. This may require steps such as draining and cleaning the water reservoir using a mixture of white vinegar and hot water, dishwashing liquid or a commercial cleaner.

Here are the most common questions customers have when searching for a countertop ice maker.

When choosing a countertop ice maker, look for a model that produces the type of ice you want, as well as the amount of ice required per cycle. Regular cleaning and maintenance are part of owning any countertop ice maker, so it’s helpful to choose a model that’s easy to clean and drain.

If your freezer doesn’t have a built-in ice maker, or if you often use more ice than your freezer ice maker can keep up with, a countertop ice maker is a wise investment. Ice cube trays take up a lot of freezer space, plus they take a long time to freeze solid. Also, some countertop ice makers make special types of ice, such as cube, clear or bullet ice, which is great for craft beverage enthusiasts.

Most countertop icemakers are designed to make ice, not store it for long periods of time. If you have leftover ice, you’ll need to store it in the freezer.

The difference between nugget and cube ice is in the shape and size. Nugget ice, which is sometimes called pebble ice, consists of small pellets. Cubed ice is much larger and shaped like geometric cubes. Which variety is better is, of course, a matter of personal preference. However, cubed ice has a larger surface area and melts more slowly, making it a better choice when less dilution is desired.