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In a world where there is a device for everything, appliance makers have found a way to give customers restaurant-quality ice outside the restaurant.
Enter the portable ice maker, changing how you get ice instead of through your freezer. But what’s the difference between a portable ice maker and a freezer ice maker? As it turns out, not all ice makers are created equal – especially if you get your ice from your favourite large appliances.
Both are great options depending on your needs, but each has distinct advantages and disadvantages as you get ready for the heat of the warmest days. So, which is better for you? How much ice does each option create? First, let’s dig more into this portable ice maker vs freezer ice maker issue and see which solution will work best for you.
Differences Between Portable Ice Makers and Freezer Ice Makers
The most apparent difference between the two types of ice makers is their size, but both have advantages and disadvantages.
Portable Ice Maker Advantages and Disadvantages
Portable ice makers are small and compact, so they can be easily moved around and stored away when not in use. On the other hand, a freezer ice maker is much larger and built into your refrigerator or another large appliance.
These ice makers are much faster than freezer ice makers and can create enough ice for a drink in as little as 10 minutes.
Portable ice makers are also much more energy efficient than freezer ice makers since they don’t require as much power. They also tend to be less expensive than their freezer counterparts, making them a more budget-friendly option. These products can also be placed on a countertop or a table. But, again, you’re only limited by your space.
Freezer Ice Maker Advantages and Disadvantages
Freezer models also have a few advantages over portable ones. Since they’re larger, they can typically make bigger batches of ice, so they are ideal for parties or big events.
Also, you can use freezer ice makers to store pre-made bags of ice, which can be highly convenient when making beverages in your refrigerator. Freezer ice makers, however, can take up to 24 hours to produce fresh ice from a refrigerator water line.
Ice Creation Process in Portable and Freezer Ice Makers
Freezer ice makers and portable ice makers create ice in different ways. Let’s go over each type.
Portable Ice Maker Production
Portable ice makers work by freezing water that is poured into the machine. The water is then circulated through an evaporator that freezes it into small sizes. The cubes are then dispensed into a container, ready to be used.
A portable unit can produce up to 12 kilos of ice in 24 hours and can be used with any water, including tap, filtered, and distilled. Talk about the perfect solution for a large family!
Not only are portable ice makers high-speed and efficient, but they also provide a much larger variety of ice cube shapes and sizes. This includes the popular cylindrical pellets or nugget ice, which is preferred by many for its chewable texture. This type of ice is often used in soft drinks or other beverages, as it helps keep them colder for longer.
Freezer Ice Maker Production
On the other hand, a freezer ice maker works by cooling water in a reservoir pulled from the fridge supply line tapped into your home’s water supply.
Once the water is in the reservoir, a thermostat begins to cool the water, which causes the water to become cold enough to harden.
The freezing tray is a shallow tray that has small holes in it. As the water passes through the holes, it freezes into small cubes. Once the ice cubes are frozen, the auger pushes them out of the tray and into your freezer’s storage bin.
Ice production is top of mind with a freezer model. All you need to do is grab a glass, put it under the ice dispenser on your fridge, and enjoy!
Portable Ice Maker Options
There are various portable options, so knowing which one best meets your space and room needs is essential before investing in one.
Countertop Ice Makers
Countertop ice makers, for example, come with a water reservoir and can produce several kilos of ice daily. The downside is that they are more expensive and require more maintenance than any other unit type.
Countertop models also take up plenty of room on your counters. So if you’re space-conscious, avoid ice frozen by these models and conserve precious countertop space.
Undercounter Ice Makers
Undercounter ice makers are an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys entertaining. With a large-capacity ice maker, you can quickly and easily make enough ice for large gatherings or parties.
You can also choose from various shapes and sizes for the best fit for your space. Many also come with an adjustable ice bin, so you can easily adjust the amount of ice you make depending on the number of guests you expect. These appliances are also great for busy households seeking more ice or extra ice.
Freezer Ice Maker Options
However, if you are looking to upgrade your current fridge, remember to research appliances with ice makers.
Built-In Ice Makers
Buying a new fridge freezer means evaluating different types of integrated ice makers. Built-in models are usually attached to the front of a refrigerator to allow for ease of use. A secured water line tapped into your home’s water supply will help produce ice. However, be forewarned that mould can grow in the supply line.
Ice Cube Trays
If your fridge lacks an ice maker, you can go the old-fashioned route with an ice cube tray used to freeze water. Of course, you’ll have to deal with the chance of ice melt and food contamination issues. But you won’t have problems with countertop space.
Portable or In-Built? The Choice is Yours
A portable ice maker is great if you’re looking for a more energy-efficient option to produce ice quickly in a smaller space, like a kitchen counter or a boat. However, a freezer ice maker is better if you need to make larger batches of ice or store pre-made bags for later use.
Whatever your preference, either option can be a fantastic solution for most people. So, make your pick and enjoy extraordinary satisfaction on those warm summer days!
Paul is the type of person who never met a problem he couldn’t fix. He can always be found tinkering with something in his house, even if it isn’t broken! His tips and tricks are often shared on our site. He’s the one you call when something breaks because he has been known to improvise fixes for everything from leaky faucets to malfunctioning dryers.
