If you drink a lot of sodas or seltzers, or you just want better-looking ice, consider a waterfall-style, clear-cube ice maker like the Luma Comfort IM200. Clear ice cubes don’t make carbonated drinks fizz as much as cloudy ice does, so your bubbly beverages will taste better for longer. Starting with unplugging the ice maker and removing the ice bin, you can thoroughly clean the interior and exterior surfaces, including the water reservoir. By reassembling the ice maker and plugging it back in, you can test its functionality and ensure that it is producing ice as expected. Cleaning your is a simple yet crucial step in ensuring its optimal performance and the production of high-quality ice.
The tank allows for more ice to be made between refills, but you don’t have to use it. You can buy a slightly cheaper model of the Opal 2.0 that doesn’t include a side tank. The Luma Comfort ice maker usually took 20 to 25 minutes to complete each batch of ice at room temperature and more like 30 minutes in warmer environments. (Our bullet-ice-maker picks generate nine pieces in roughly eight minutes.) That said, it makes about three times as much ice per batch, so it works out to be roughly equivalent over time. If cloudy ice isn’t for you or if you want to keep fizzy drinks cold without them going flat, consider a clear-ice maker such as the Luma Comfort IM200.
It’s also expensive, typically costing nearly five times the price of the bullet-ice makers we recommend. But if you have a thing for nugget ice, it’s a terrific choice. This model’s water reservoir stores less water than that of our pick, so you need to refill the machine more frequently, but we barely noticed the difference in testing. The Igloo ice maker’s slightly lighter weight (0.75 pound less than the Magic Chef ice maker) and compact shape make it much easier to carry to the sink to drain and clean than its competitors.
In terms of actually using your ice, the KBice maker has the nugget ice market cornered on built-in dispensing. That said, a few models do require a water line, so be sure to check what’s required before purchasing. Looks aren’t everything — especially when you’re purchasing an arguably non-essential appliance — but we can’t deny the aesthetic appeal of Frigidaire’s V2 nugget ice maker. The stainless steel body looks sleek and will match almost any kitchen setup, while its ability to produce 44 pounds per day will ensure you’re kept flush with fresh, glorious nugget ice.
If you’re on the hunt for a high-tech kitchen gift for a home cook, this was one of the best ice makers we tested. This machine has three UV light settings so you can dim or brighten the viewing window and protect against bacteria frigidaire freezer growth throughout use. The cleaning setting is super easy to use, and the machine is quiet while running, save for the pitter-patter of those nuggets being made. It’s sleek and comes in both stainless and black stainless finishes.
By following the step-by-step cleaning process outlined in this article, you can maintain the cleanliness, functionality, and longevity of your ice maker. Cleaning the interior of your Frigidaire Nugget Ice Maker is vital to remove any buildup, mold, or bacteria that may affect the quality of your ice. This step ensures that your ice maker continues to produce clean and refreshing nugget ice.
The location of the water reservoir may vary depending on the model of your ice maker, so refer to the user manual for specific instructions. After cleaning, rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and go over the exterior surfaces of the ice maker again to remove any soap residue. If you notice any stubborn residue that is difficult to remove, you can create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Dip the soft cloth or sponge into this solution and continue cleaning the ice bin. It’s also just much more convenient to have a constant fresh stash of nugget ice all ready for my next drink.
The Opal 2.0 has a sleek design, with a transparent, illuminated reservoir for the ice. A detachable side water tank attaches to the machine with magnets. The side tank allows for more ice to be made between refills; you can also opt for a cheaper version without the side tank. Most ice makers available today come with a 12-month warranty, but be sure to check your specific model’s offering. We like the black and stainless steel design of this machine, which lends a modern aesthetic to what can otherwise be a bulky contraption sitting on your countertop. We also appreciate the 12-month warranty and self-cleaning capabilities.