For a new source of refreshing ice whenever and almost wherever you need it, it’s time to consider a portable ice maker. Of course, if you’re not sure if portable is the way to go, or not sure which ice machine is right for you, then no need to worry. We have collected some of the most common questions and answered your concerns.

Firstly, the most people ask and the most question we answered is

What Is A Portable Ice Maker?

A portable ice maker is a small appliance with the ability to produce a large and steady amount of ice throughout the day, all without requiring a permanent water line or installation. The ice making process is the same as the built-in ice maker in most refrigerator freezers, or the larger undercounter ice machines. Simply add water and the freezing trays get to work quickly creating a ready supply of ice. 

A portable ice maker can be used in a kitchen or den, in tiny homes, RVs or camping trailers, or even follow the family outside to a BBQ if there’s an outdoor kitchen with the appropriate electrical hookups. The portable models can be turned off, unplugged and, like other small kitchen appliances, stored out of the way whenever it’s not needed. 

Portable ice makers also don’t require draining as do their larger counterparts. With a little measuring ahead of time, you can be sure to select the best portable ice maker that can be located anywhere in the kitchen with free countertop space. Make sure to choose a model that has a footprint width and length that will fit on the countertop, as well the appropriate height to fit under upper cabinets.

How Does a Portable Ice Maker Work?

Portable ice machines operate at the push of a button. To begin the ice production process with a portable ice maker, you simply plug in the appliance, fill the reservoir with clean, cool, filtered water, and turn it on to let the machine work quietly in the background of your kitchen or office. 

The machines have cooled trays or metal prongs that work to freeze the water into different sizes and shapes of ice. The ice then fills a storage bin that can be emptied into the ice reservoir in a freezer until it’s time to use it. 

If you’re wondering if you can leave a portable ice maker on, the easy answer is that yes, you can. But keep in mind that the insulation and freezing process on a portable ice maker is not the same as that of a freezer. Once the ice has been moved to the storage bin, it is no longer being kept completely frozen and will start to soften and melt. Most ice machines will recycle that melted water into the next batch of ice, so the water will not be wasted.

How long does it take a portable ice maker to make ice?

The amount of time it takes for a portable ice maker to make ice and fill up the storage tank can vary based on the type of ice maker you choose, the water quality, and the condition of the machine. A single batch of ice may take between 7 and 12 minutes to freeze the cubes and drop into the portable ice maker’s storage tank. On average, portable ice makers can produce up to 35 lbs. of ice every day, as well as store as much as 2 lbs. of ice.

What are the advantages of an ice maker

If your refrigerator doesn’t have an ice maker built into it, then you may be faced with the hassle of buying bags of ice, or filling up bothersome ice trays. Neither of these are great options for the long-term. A portable ice machine offers a convenient alternative. You can even get a nugget ice maker to crunch on your favorite ice shapes right at home. 

Having a dependable source of ice is also a common problem for RV and boat owners. When you’re out on the water or in the middle of a cross-country road trip, ice may be difficult to come by. Or perhaps you’d like to have some extra ice around the house for entertaining, but don’t have a need for a permanent ice machine. A wet bar ice maker can keep any backyard party well supplied for the kids and family’s drinks.

From camping to tailgating to boating, with only a power source and water, the scenarios in which a portable ice machine can come in handy are nearly endless. These are just a few of the ways a portable ice maker is going to be a good solution.

How to use a Portable Ice Maker