How to Choose The Right Outdoor Ice Makers for Your Home
What to Consider When Buying an Outdoor Ice Maker
When shopping for an outdoor ice maker, you want to make sure that you’re getting the best product for your needs. There are a variety of factors to consider when selecting an ice maker, such as the type of ice it produces, its capacity, the power source, and more. Here are some of the things you should look for to ensure that you get the right ice maker for your outdoor space.
Type of Ice
The type of ice you’ll need will depend on the types of drinks you’ll be making. Most outdoor ice makers produce cubed ice, which is suitable for drinks like water, soda, and cocktails. However, some models are capable of producing crushed ice, which is better for drinks like margaritas and snow cones. If you plan to use the ice maker for a variety of beverages, you may want to look for a model that can make both types of ice.
Capacity
The capacity of an outdoor ice maker is important to consider, as it’ll determine how much ice you’ll be able to produce at once. The capacity of an ice maker is usually measured in pounds, and most models range from 20 to 60 pounds. If you’re having a large gathering, you’ll want to look for a model that has a higher capacity, so you won’t have to worry about running out of ice.
Power Source
Outdoor ice makers are available in both electric and manual models. Electric models are typically more powerful and can produce more ice faster than manual models. However, electric models will require access to an electrical outlet, which may not be feasible if you’re camping or having a party in a remote location. Manual models are powered by a hand crank, so you won’t need access to an electrical outlet.
Portability
If you’re planning to take your ice maker with you on trips or to different outdoor events, you’ll want to look for a model that’s portable and easy to transport. Most outdoor ice makers are designed to be portable and come with handles or wheels for easy transportation. Some models even come with a carrying case, making it even easier to take your ice maker on the go.
Noise Level
When shopping for an outdoor ice maker, you’ll want to make sure that it’s quiet enough for your outdoor space. Some models can be quite loud, so you’ll want to find one that emits minimal noise. If you’re using the ice maker in your backyard or other outdoor area, you’ll want to find a model that won’t disturb your neighbors or disrupt your outdoor activities.
Price
The price of an outdoor ice maker will depend on the features and capacity of the model. Generally, electric models are more expensive than manual models. You should also consider the cost of electricity or any additional accessories you may need, such as a carrying case or an extra ice bucket.
When selecting an outdoor ice maker, it’s important to consider all the factors listed above. Doing your research and reading reviews can help you find the right model for your needs. With the right ice maker, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious drinks and frozen treats outdoors with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you put an ice maker outside?
Yes, you can put an ice maker outside, but it requires building a housing for it to maintain efficiency. A shed or a controllable temperature space can work for this purpose. However, it is important to note that installing an outdoor ice maker can be expensive and may not always be cost-effective.
2. Are outdoor ice makers worth it?
Yes, outdoor ice makers can be worth it if you want to have a convenient source of ice in your backyard. It eliminates the need to constantly go to the store to buy bags of ice that can melt on the way home. With an outdoor ice machine, you can enjoy staying cool outside without the hassle.
3. Do any portable ice makers keep ice frozen?
No, portable ice makers do not keep ice frozen like traditional freezers. These units are not designed to maintain ice for extended periods. However, some portable ice makers can recycle ice water back to the reservoir, allowing the unit to run continuously even when you're away.
4. How do you winterize an outside ice maker?
To winterize an outside ice maker, follow these steps: shut down the ice machine, empty the ice bin, disconnect and drain the water lines, remove the water filter(s), drain the housing and any reservoirs, and blow out the water-cooled condenser if applicable. Proper winterization is necessary to protect the ice maker from freezing temperatures and potential damage.
5. Do portable ice makers get moldy?
Yes, if not properly cleaned and maintained, portable ice makers can develop mold. Mold growth can affect the taste and quality of the ice and also pose health risks. It is important to regularly clean and disinfect your portable ice maker to prevent mold growth and ensure the production of clean and safe ice.
6. What is the life expectancy of an ice maker?
The life expectancy of an ice maker can vary depending on factors such as usage and maintenance. On average, an ice machine can last around 4 to 5 years, but it can be shorter or longer depending on how frequently it is used and how well it is maintained. Some machines may last up to 10 years if used every day.
7. Can I leave my portable ice maker on all the time?
Yes, you can leave your portable ice maker on all the time. Portable ice makers are designed to continuously produce ice, and they can typically produce several pounds of ice per day. Just make sure to regularly empty the ice bin to prevent it from overflowing.
8. Why is my ice melting in my portable ice maker?
If your ice is melting too quickly in your portable ice maker, it may be due to warm air entering the appliance and causing the ice to melt faster. This can happen if there are any gaps or openings in the unit. However, the melted ice water is not wasted and can be recycled back to the reservoir for making new ice.
Editor's Notes
During our outdoor ice maker research, we found 24 outdoor ice maker products and shortlisted 7 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,264 customer reviews through our big data system to write the outdoor ice makers list. We found that most customers choose outdoor ice makers with an average price of $812.45.
The outdoor ice makers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of outdoor ice makers, including SOZT, Blaze Outdoor Products, BRAMA, EUHOMY, EdgeStar. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 23 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.
Mark Greer has been an excellent residential carpenter for eight years in Los Angeles and has complete knowledge of woodworking, power tools, and home DIY. He never misses a chance of the lookout for new features and innovations in popular and novel home appliances as an insightful writer.
