The ice makers that come with your standard fridge are fine for filling two glasses of water, but they don’t have the capacity to handle large quantities like hosting a party or filling up a large cooler. An ice maker can be added to your kitchen or bar to make sure you have enough ice for refreshing drinks or to fill up a cooler to take with you on the move.
It can be difficult to find the right icemaker with so many styles, features, sizes, and cube options. This guide will help you identify the right ice maker and how to integrate it into your home.
Ice Maker Styles
There are many styles of ice makers available. These range from small, portable models to larger, more robust systems that can be used in busy kitchens and bars. Knowing the differences in styles and their benefits will help you choose the right ice maker for your home or business.
Ice makers undercounter
An undercounter icemaker is the best choice if you want to seamlessly incorporate an icemaker into your outdoor or indoor kitchen design. This style can be easily integrated into a lower kitchen cabinet to make it possible to create an island or wet bar. This ice maker has vents on the front that look similar to your refrigerator. They are designed to provide cooling and air circulation.
Ice makers undercounter
You have two options when choosing an undercounter icemaker: either pick one with a finish that matches the other appliances or choose one that is panel-ready. You can conceal the appliance by placing a panel-ready ice maker directly on top of the door. This will hide it from view and make it appear like another cabinet.
Portable Ice Makers
A portable icemaker is the best option if you want to have maximum versatility. These small units can be stored easily between uses, and can be moved to your event venue, porch, patio or kitchen counter. To ensure that your event is well attended, you should consider the size, finish, and production capabilities of portable ice makers.
You can also use portable ice makers to increase your ice production on a budget. They can be stored in a closet or pantry between uses and can be unplugged. Many have built-in timers or self-cleaning functions. Although portable icemakers are very convenient, they don’t really freeze. Their bins are extremely insulated, but won’t keep ice frozen for long.
Freestanding Ice Makers
A freestanding icemaker will ensure that you never run out of ice in your outdoor or indoor kitchens. The large units produce a lot of ice quickly, so you will always have enough. The units are ready to be plugged in once they have been completed. Freestanding icemakers require drainage. Professional installation is recommended if you’re adding a new unit. They are ideal for use in a garage or backroom of commercial properties because of their utilitarian and large size.
Modular Ice Makers
Modular ice makers can be a great option for commercial spaces such as restaurants or bars. You can stack them with any other ice maker or appliance in your bar or kitchen. They are typically utilitarian and industrial in design, so they can withstand heavy daily use. Pay attention to which other appliances your modular icemaker will work with when choosing it.
Cube Type
You can choose from at least six different styles of ice cubes to make your favorite drinks. Each ice maker lists the cube shapes it makes. To help you choose the right one, take a look at all of the shapes available. The ice cube will melt faster if it has a larger surface area.
Ice types
Larger ice cubes are better for cooling drinks. They will last longer and prevent the drink from becoming too watery. Smaller cubes are easier to chew if you enjoy chewing on ice. You should consider the purpose of the ice and pick a maker that can produce the right shape.
Crescents
Half-moon shaped Crescent ice cubes have a flat edge with a curved edge. This shape allows for ample space to prevent ice cubes from getting too compact. They are great for drinks as the liquid flows easily through them, and the ice melts slowly.
Full Cubes
One of the most popular ice cube shapes is the full cube. Because of their large shape, they melt slowly and are great for drinks. Because it melts slowly, this versatile shape is great for coolers.
Half Cubes
These rectangular ice cubes have half the size of full cubes. Half cubes are a great option for coolers because they can be easily packed in cans and containers.
Nuggets
Nuggets are one the smallest ice cube shapes. These tiny ice cubes don’t have uniform shapes. They melt quickly due to their small size. This makes them a popular choice for those who like to chew on their ice. Because they can easily mold around any items in the cooler, Nugget Ice Cubes are a great choice for coolers.
Bullets
The bullet-shaped ice cubes have a rounded-off shape and an opening in the middle. They are a popular choice for bar-ice makers due to their unique shape. This indentation allows liquid to flow within, creating a rustic and visually appealing look for drinks with bullet-shaped ice cubes.
Gourmet
Gourmet ice cubes are large, tapered or top hat-shaped ice cubes. They are almost crystal clear due to the way the water has been compressed. This makes them an artistic choice for cooling beverages. Its slow melting ability makes it ideal to use in alcoholic beverages that don’t need to be diluted. Its gourmet shape cools liquids quickly, but it is more difficult to use in smaller coolers or decorative buckets.
Things to Consider
The first step is to choose the right style of icemaker. Next, narrow down your search by searching for features that suit your needs. Consider these features:
Size: Measure the space you have to make ice and ensure that it is the right size. Take measurements of the space you have available, measuring the height, width and depth. Compare this with the dimensions of your unit.
Production: You can find out the production capacity of an icemaker by looking at the specifications. This will allow you to determine the daily production of ice. There are also speed-production options that can be used to produce ice quickly on-demand.
Capacity: This refers to how much ice the unit can hold at once. The unit’s capacity will vary from its production capabilities. The internal storage space may have to be empty throughout the day in order to achieve maximum production.
Finish: The finish of the icemaker will affect the appearance of the room. Choose a finish that matches the rest of your appliances in a kitchen or bar area. You can blend black and white icemakers into your cabinetry, while stainless steel icemakers with a modern design can add style to your space.
Door: Reversible doors are available for some icemakers. This allows you to choose whether the door opens to one side or the other. You should consider whether the door’s swing direction will fit the space available if you do not have a reversible option.
Drainage: Not all ice makers require drainage. Others, like portable models, don’t need one. Professional installation or preparation may be required if you buy an ice maker that requires drainage.
Filtration: Many ice makers have integrated filters that remove contaminants from the ice before it freezes. This is great for ice that you use in drinks.
Efficiency: Your icemaker requires energy to run all day. To keep your home’s operating costs as low as possible and to reduce the carbon footprint, choose an ENERGY STAR rated icemaker.
Accessories: Many icemakers come with accessories such as removable bins that allow you to transfer ice or scoops.
Weather resistance: Make sure the specifications are correct if you plan to use the icemaker on a patio or deck. This guarantees that the ice maker’s finish and construction will withstand heat, humidity, and other elements.
Warranty: The warranty on a machine is usually longer if it is larger or more durable. To help you decide which icemaker to buy, take a look at the warranty provided by the manufacturer.
Enjoy the convenience of your new ice maker
Drinks with ice
Your ice machine will be a useful and convenient appliance in your home. It can be used to make high-quality drinks for your family and friends at home. You can fill your home bar’s ice bucket without having to go to the grocery store. A mini fridge is a great addition to your home bar, as well as a wine refrigerator that will keep your growing wine collection fresh.
An ice maker is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts. It will ensure that you have enough ice to fill your cooler before you head out on a day at the lake, beach or mountains. A portable icemaker can be added to your boat or RV so you always have the ice that you need for a long camping trip, tailgate or fishing trip.