When you’re in the market for a countertop ice maker, you may have encountered one common problem: most models don’t keep the ice frozen. Ice that melts quickly can be frustrating, especially when hosting a gathering or preparing drinks for the day. In this guide, we’ll dive into what you should know when looking for a countertop ice maker that produces ice and preserves it well below the freezing point.
What’s the Difference Between a Basic Ice Maker and One That Keeps Ice Frozen?
The main distinction between a basic ice maker and a model that preserves ice lies in their design and purpose. Basic ice makers are compact machines that focus solely on ice production. Once the ice is made, it sits in a storage bin without any real insulation or freezing capability, which causes the ice to melt quickly. Melted ice is often recycled into the system to make more ice, but you’re left with soft or slushy cubes that don’t last long in a drink.
In contrast, freezer-equipped ice makers have an insulated compartment or a mini freezer section designed to keep ice frozen after it’s made. These models can maintain a temperature below freezing, allowing your ice to last significantly longer.
Why Most Countertop Ice Makers Struggle With Ice Retention
Several design factors explain why typical countertop ice makers struggle to keep ice frozen:
- Minimal Insulation: Most countertop models are designed for speed and compactness, leaving little room for adequate insulation. The ice melts rapidly without sufficient insulation, especially in warmer ambient temperatures.
- Type of Ice: Many models produce bullet-shaped ice, which is softer and melts faster than traditional cube ice. This type of ice is often only held at around 32°F, just above freezing, which hastens melting.
- Recycling Melted Ice: While this is an environmentally friendly feature, recycling results in wet, slushy ice that doesn’t hold up well in drinks.
- Energy Efficiency Trade-off: Ice makers that maintain freezing temperatures require continuous power, increasing energy consumption. In contrast, basic models are more energy-efficient but sacrifice ice quality for lower power usage.
How Can You Improve Ice Retention in a Countertop Ice Maker?
Although most countertop ice makers aren’t built to keep ice frozen for long, there are strategies to improve ice longevity:
- Transfer Ice to a Freezer: Once the ice is made, moving it to a traditional freezer will ensure it stays solid for longer. Many users choose this workaround for events or extended use.
- Use Filtered Water: Filtered water reduces impurities and air bubbles in the ice, leading to denser ice that takes longer to melt.
- Choose Models with Better Insulation: A few models, like the NewAir ClearIce40 and GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker, offer better insulation to help delay melting, though they still don’t provide freezing capabilities.
Top Models Known for Improved Ice Retention
While models that actively keep ice frozen are rare, there are a few countertop ice makers that perform better in terms of ice retention due to enhanced insulation:
- NewAir ClearIce40: This model is known for producing crystal-clear ice that lasts longer due to better insulation and cold storage capabilities.
- GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker: Loved for its nugget-style ice, this model also includes superior insulation, allowing it to keep ice cold longer before melting.
Common Complaints and Solutions for Countertop Ice Makers
Users often report the following challenges when it comes to ice retention:
- Rapid Ice Melting: To counteract this, it’s best to transfer ice to a separate freezer as soon as it’s produced.
- Wet or Slushy Ice: Using filtered water and ensuring the unit is cool can help reduce this issue.
- Limited Storage Capacity: If you’re producing large amounts of ice, consider using a basic ice maker alongside a traditional freezer for better long-term storage.
Ice Shapes
- Nugget Ice:
- Nugget ice has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. Its soft, chewable texture makes it a delightful addition to any beverage, from cocktails to sodas. This type of ice is made by scraping thin layers of a cold cylinder, resulting in small, irregular nuggets that are easy to chew and slow to melt.
- Popular models: If you like nugget ice, consider the GE Profile Opal 2.0, Euhomy Nugget Ice Maker, or NewAir Nugget Countertop Ice Maker.
- Classic Cubes: Clear vs. Cloudy:
- Clear ice cubes are visually appealing and melt slower due to their dense structure, making them ideal for cocktails and whiskey. While perfectly functional, cloudy ice cubes contain air pockets that make them less dense and quicker to melt.
- If clear ice is a priority, look for machines like the Luma Comfort Clear Ice Cube Maker or Frigidaire Countertop Ice Maker.
- Gourmet Shapes:
- Some ice makers offer unique shapes, like large spheres or cubes, which can add a touch of elegance to drinks and help them stay cold longer.
- If you’re a cocktail enthusiast or enjoy entertaining, these options might be appealing.
Ice Maker Must-Haves
When shopping for a countertop ice maker, there are several factors to consider beyond just the brand name:
- Production Speed: How much ice do you need daily, and how quickly do you need it? Some machines can churn out a batch of ice in as little as 6 minutes, while others might take longer. Consider your household size and how often you entertain to determine your ideal production speed.
- Storage Capacity: Don’t want to constantly empty the ice bucket? Choose a model with a storage capacity that matches your ice consumption habits.
- Ice Size Options: Do you prefer a machine with adjustable ice size settings, or are you happy with a fixed size? Think about how you typically use ice and choose accordingly.
- Energy Efficiency: Select an energy-efficient model to help the environment and your wallet. For the most efficient options, look for ice makers with an Energy Star rating.
- Noise Level: If your ice maker will be in a living or sleeping area, noise level is an important consideration. Opt for a quieter model to avoid disruptions.
- Self-Cleaning Features: Some ice makers offer self-cleaning cycles, saving time and effort. However, it’s important to research these cycles’ effectiveness before deciding.
- Extra Perks: Some models have features like WiFi connectivity, timers, and built-in water filters. Consider which of these features are important to you and prioritize them accordingly.
Maintaining an Ice Maker
- Regular Deep Cleans: Even if your model boasts a self-cleaning cycle, regular deep cleans are crucial. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which typically involve using a vinegar solution or a specialized ice maker cleaner.
- Daily Wipe-Downs: After emptying the ice bin, give it a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to prevent residue from drying and hardening. Don’t forget to wipe down the exterior and control panel as well.
- Descaling: Depending on your water hardness, you may need to descale your ice maker periodically to remove mineral buildup.
Troubleshooting Like a Pro:
- Leaks: If you notice any leaks, check the water lines and connections for any cracks or loose fittings.
- Jammed Ice Maker: If the ice maker jams, try turning the machine off and unplugging it for a few minutes. Then, gently remove any ice blockages with a plastic utensil (never use sharp objects).
- Slow Ice Production: Could be due to a variety of factors, such as low water pressure, a dirty filter, or a faulty thermostat.
Extending the Life of Your Ice Maker:
- Use Filtered Water: If you have hard water, using filtered water can significantly reduce mineral buildup and prolong the life of your ice maker.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the water reservoir, as this can put unnecessary strain on the components and lead to leaks.
- Regularly Check for Wear and Tear: Inspect hoses, gaskets, and look for signs of wear and tear, and replace them promptly if needed.
Conclusion: The Trade-Offs You Need to Consider
When selecting a countertop ice maker, it’s important to understand the trade-offs between energy efficiency, ice quality, and storage capability. Basic models are ideal for fast ice production and energy efficiency but fall short in keeping ice frozen. If ice longevity is a key concern, opting for models with better insulation, like the NewAir ClearIce40, or using a separate freezer for ice storage are practical solutions.