Best Residential Ice Maker – Reviews & Buying Guide
Today we are going to show you a range of ice makers which you can use easily in your home. Buying big bulky bags from the local store is now a thing of the past. Thanks to a full range of countertop ice makers on the market.
Whether you’re looking for a cooling drink on a hot summer’s day or hosting a dinner party and need quickly and conveniently.
We have also put together some of the most common FAQs asked before and after purchasing an ice maker. Our buying guide will show you what to look out for in the current market for your next purchase. Get your money’s worth with our handy tips and points!
Top comparison chart for residential ice makers
These are some of our chosen ice makers for your home. We have outlined there features as a quick point reference. Included in the chart are also quick links to check the latest prices and more information.
Now we have seen the quick points. It’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of each machine!
Product Reviews
1. Homelabs portable stainless steel ice maker
Product Highlights
- 26 lbs of ice produced per day.
- Two ice options.
- Portable model
What we like
We love the fact that this ice machine is portable. During the hotter months, you can keep it by the pool or use during BBQ’s for easy access.
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When you make your purchase, they include a handy ice scoop and a basket to store your ice.
This updated model is now quieter and more energy sufficient. Your first batch of ice will soon be ready in 8 minutes.
What we don’t like about this machine
The manufacturer’s claim easier to clean. We all know it’s essential to clean the machine to maintain a high standard of ice. Their suggestion is to wash all parts with water and soap. For the nooks and cranny, they suggest using vinegar and paper towel. Seems a bit of the pain but its a must to keep standards high.
2. Kealive ice maker
Product Highlights
- Buzzer alarm
- Automatic shut off system.
- LED display
- 2 Year warranty
What we like
This machine has a buzzer alarm to let you know when your device is full or if you have insufficient water for making. A great feature to stop any issues according.
It has a stylish LED display which indicates when it is working, it’s full of ice and when it requires a water refill.
The insulated inside ensures that your ice stays fresh and frozen until you need it. You also get a scoop and handy basket for you to serve your ice. Your ice maker comes with a two-year warranty, should anything go wrong contact your manufacturer and send it back for repair or replacement.
What we don’t like about this machine
Overall the machine has the functions you require when you purchase an ice maker for your home. The only thing we would say is that it isn’t desirable in color. The grey has no shine and doesn’t shine for use.
Some people have stated that it is a little louder than the ice machines they have had in the past.
3. Frigidaire blue ice maker
Product Highlights
- Portable
- Offers two sizes of ice.
- LED control.
- Fast ice making feature.
What we like
Offering you fast ice making this machine produces nine cubes on average every 7-15 minutes allowing to cool your drink quickly on a hot day.
A great feature is the more accessible and convenient drain plug allowing you to drain away water easily and quickly.
With your purchase, you will get included an ice shovel allowing you to remove the ice quickly and with ease.
What we don’t like about this machine
We are not to keen on the blue color. It will not suit all kitchens. It would suit an outdoor BBQ area or for a garden party.
Another downside we believe for this maker is the plastic. Where it looks so shiny gives it a cheap and tacky look. We prefer something a little more sophisticated looking.
4. Igloo red ice maker
Product Highlights
- Makes 26 lbs of ice per day
- Stores up to 2 lbs of ice.
- Easy use panel
- 120 volts
What we like
You can make a good amount of ice with this hand portable household ice maker. Making up to 26 lbs within 24 hours. This funky little maker is perfect for those long summer days.
Keep your ice fresh and stored with a storage basket providing you with space to hold 2 lbs at a time. Great for just taking your ice when needed. The easy LED panel allows you to see when you need to add water and check when it is working.
The transparent lid gives you the option of watching the ice maker in front of your very eyes. What we don’t like about this machine
What we don’t like about this machine
We are not to keen on the logo on the front of the machine if you are into there color scheme you can purchase this machine in a variety of colors.
5. Vremi countertop ice maker
Product Highlights
- Produces 26 lbs within 24 hours.
- Automatic shut off feature
- 2.2-liter water reservoir
- Cool modern design
What we like
Keep cool all year round with this modern and stylish portable home ice maker. Producing up to 26 lbs over 24 hours.
Its automatic shut off feature stops overflow and energy wate. It notifies you when your ice is produced, and your basket is full.
Super energy efficient and will use any water melted from the ice basket, reusing it to make new ice for you. You get a removable ice bucket and scoop to serve your ice to yourself or guests.
What we don’t like about this machine
Although this machine states it is portable it does a little bulky in design. This could cause an issue lugging it around. If your using it in your home that should be ok.
6. AGLUCKY Countertop Ice Maker Machine,maker
Product Highlights
- Nickel plated ice lattice
- High-speed exhaust fan
- Two-year warranty
- Stainless steel design
What we like
This machine is stunning in design with its styless modern stainless steel finish. Its LED display makes using the device easy and convenient.
One thing we adore! IT SELF CLEAN! No more scrubbing or trying to get into those nooks for dirt. Just add water and vinegar and water and select the self-clean option.
The manufacturer must be pretty sure this is a great purchase with a two-year guarantee and 30-day money back guarantee when you purchase this machine.
You can also make three kinds of ice cubes, small, medium and large. This is great and gives you more uses for your ice use!
What we don’t like about this machine
The only thing we don’t really like is the machine doesn’t hold an on-off button. You cannot shut the machine off without unplugging it. It isn’t a huge issue really but always waits that its not mid programme before disconnecting. This could cause a malfunction with the machine.
7. ZAFRO Countertop Ice Maker Machine
Product Highlights
- Produces ice every 7 minutes.
- Two different ice cube options.
- 26 lbs worth of ice per day.
- Includes ice scoop.
What we like
If you want ice super quick, then this machine is excellent for that. Producing nine cubes within 7 minutes. Your refreshing drink will be within your reach in no time.
You have a selection of 2 styles of cubes. The smaller size will be great to cool water bottles on a hot summer’s day.
Within a day this maker produces 26 lbs worth of ice. This is great, especially for those hot summer days and nights. You get a handy ice scoop with your purchase. Helping you transport ice quickly and hygienically.
What we don’t like about this machine
We don’t think this machine is overly attractive. The square design makes the machine look very bulky and plane.
8. Portable Digital ICE Maker Machine by Arctic-Pro
Product Highlights
- Two cube options.
- Removable ice reservoir.
- Delivers ice in 8 mins.
- Sensors for overfilling.
What we like
The Arctic pro give you access to ice easily and quickly. With two options of cubes available, choose the size of your cubes and get making!
Your first cubes will arrive in a quick eight minutes. The Arctic pro is excellent for summer pool parties and more. Deliver your friends and family with cold drinks quickly!
The free ice scoop included along with the removable ice bucket makes it easy to serve your guest with fresh ice this summer.
What we don’t like about this machine
The design itself is excellent apart from the whopping significant writing across it. The manufacturer wants to promote the machines name we get it, but it isn’t very pleasing on the eye.
9. Frigidaire ice maker
Product Highlights
- Simple use buttons.
- Indicator lights.
- Three sizes of ice.
- The first batch of ice in seven minutes.
What we like
Could these machines get any quicker at producing ice ?? The Frigidaire ice maker is not only super modern looking and stylish it can deliver ice within a cool 7 minutes.
With three options in the size of your cube, you can select the perfect size for your summer drink.
If you want a vast amount of ice, this machine offers you 40lbs within 24 hours. Have refreshing drinks all year with non-stop ice. Using this machine in an office environment is possible due to its bulk processing.
Its stainless steel finish makes this machine makes it look for sophisticated and would fit into a modern day kitchen without any problems.
What we don’t like about this machine
Compared to other machines the design and machine is a little, and it couldn’t easily be transported. But for the amount of ice, its producing you expect this.Buyers guide for a residential ice maker.
Buyers Guide
We have put together a quick guide with a few little tips thrown in to make your ice maker experience a little easier.
Demand
How much ice are you going to be making? Browse around the market to see the different sizes. A lot of the ice makers have up to a max of 26 lbs per 24 hours.
If you’re looking for more than that go for a bigger model perhaps a 40 lb per day machine. It depends how cool you want to stay in the hotter months.
We have chosen countertop ice makers because they are relatively cheap to purchase and easy to install. If you need ice in more considerable bulk look around for bigger under counter models. If you do purchase these though be aware your going to have to have it professionally fitter, this is going to cost more.
Budget
If you’re looking for the perfect ice machine to see you through the hotter months always consider spending a little more money. Spending more usually you are going to get a better quietly maker.
Some lower priced machines do just of a good job, but always make sure it covers everything you need from an ice maker.
Cleaning
It’s so important to keep your machine clean and fresh. If you don’t your machine is going to produce limescale and other horrible germs.
Self-clean machines are a godsend. They have built-in cleaning programs, you fill them with water and vinegar and set the programme.
If you have to clean the machine yourself always make sure you clean every nook and cranny with soap and finger. This will maintain high-grade hygienic ice.
Portable or not portable
Portable home ice makers are great for pool parties and BBQ’s but be careful not to drop it and cause damage. Portable machines usually come in a little cheaper.
If you’re not planning to lug your machine around a simple countertop one is also a great option. It depends on your preference, and there isn’t a vast difference.
FAQs on residential ice makers
Now we are going to show you the most FAQ’s on residential ice makers and answer them for you.
How long do ice makers live for?
- The main factors of your ice makers life depend on two main points. How well you maintain the machine and how much you use it.
- The safest estimate we can give you is between 4-5 years depending on the two main factors.
- Making sure you regularly clean your machine will help your machine live for years. This ensures no blockages occur and stop it working.
Why has my ice home ice maker stopped working suddenly?
- There are a few reasons your ice maker has decided to stop working.
- One main reason could be a clogged water filter. Locate it according to your manual and clean or replace where needed.
- If it’s something you cannot fix at home and the machine is under warranty, contact the manufacturer and ask for advice or use the warranty to send it back. In most cases, they will repair it or send you a replacement ice machine.
Do ice makers use a lot of electric?
- Electric use depends on the model you have.
- Usually, ice makers use a lot depending on the demand for ice making.
- Check your manual to see the energy usage.
- When not in use shut down the machine to save electric.
Conclusion
With so many ice makers on the market, it can be a confusing maze to find your perfect fit. Browse online and read reviews on several models before deciding.
Using our buyers guide section you can use the points to make your decision. Ice makers add as a great extra to your kitchen during the hotter months. Whether you choose a portable maker or a countertop one they are a great all rounder for pool parties and BBQ’s.
Check out offers directly from manufacturers to see their latest offers. Buying an ice machine during winter can also save you a few extra dollars.
Countertop machines are usually inexpensive and great without taking a tremendous amount of space in your kitchen. Shop around and enjoy your refreshing iced drinks.
