Countertop ice makers make a batch of ice in 6 to 15 minutes, but they don't work like a freezer. Here's how they work, which type to choose, and how to test an open-box unit before you buy.

Short answer: a countertop ice maker is worth it if you regularly run out of ice — parties, cottages, home bars, or a fridge without an ice dispenser. Just know one thing going in: the storage basket is not a freezer. Ice slowly melts, the water drains back into the reservoir, and the machine turns it into new ice. It's a production machine, not a storage one.

How a countertop ice maker works

1. You pour water into the reservoir. Most models don't need a water line.
2. A small pump sends water over metal prongs that a compressor chills below freezing.
3. Ice forms on the prongs; after a cycle (6–15 minutes), a short warm cycle releases it into the basket.
4. A sensor stops production when the basket is full.

Because the basket isn't refrigerated, the usual routine is to move a batch into a freezer bag if you want to stockpile.

Bullet, nugget or clear cube: which ice?

• Bullet ice — hollow, cylindrical, made fast. This is what most affordable countertop units produce. Melts faster, fine for everyday drinks and coolers.
• Nugget (“Sonic”) ice — soft and chewable. Machines are noticeably pricier.
• Clear cube ice — hard, slow-melting. Usually from larger undercounter or commercial machines.

What “26 lb a day” or “45 lb a day” really means

The daily rating assumes the machine runs non-stop for 24 hours and you keep emptying the basket. In practice:

• ~26 lb/day models make 8–9 cubes per cycle. Enough for a couple or a small family.
• ~45 lb/day models make around 24 cubes per cycle. Good for regular hosting.
• 80–90 lb/day commercial or undercounter units are for bars, big families and cottages — some can be built in and connected to a water line and drain.

Tips that make them last

• Let it stand upright before the first use after transport or shipping. Many manuals recommend waiting several hours (some say up to 24) so the compressor oil settles.
• Drain it when you're not using it. Standing water is the main cause of smells and slime.
• Clean it monthly with a vinegar or citric acid solution, especially with hard Ontario tap water. Many units have a self-clean cycle.
• Keep the vents clear. They need airflow on the sides or back to cool the compressor.

What to check on an open-box or used ice maker

1. Compressor starts: after the standing time, it should hum within a minute and the prongs should feel cold soon after.
2. First batch: ice should drop within about 15 minutes.
3. Pump and sensors: “add water” and “basket full” lights should respond correctly.
4. Leaks: check the drain plug and the area under the machine.
5. Smell and residue: a quick clean fixes most returns. Mineral deposits are normal and wash off.
6. Accessories: the scoop and basket are the ones that go missing; both are easy to replace.

Ice makers are a strong open-box buy: they're mostly returned because the buyer expected the basket to keep ice frozen, not because of a fault.

Open-box prices

At the time of writing, our ice makers range from about $55 for a compact 26 lb/day model to around $197 for a 90 lb/day undercounter unit — roughly 45% below list. Brands in recent stock include ecozy, Igloo, VIVOHOME and Zomagas. Each unit is one of a kind:

• Ice makers
• Kitchen & dining deals
• Kettles, cookers & small appliances

FAQ

Does a countertop ice maker keep ice frozen?

No. The basket is insulated but not refrigerated. Melted water is recycled into new ice, so move ice to your freezer if you want to store it.

Do I need a water line?

Not for countertop models — you fill them by hand. Some larger undercounter units can use a water line and drain.

How loud are they?

About as loud as a small fridge, plus a soft clatter when ice drops. Fine for kitchens, less so for bedrooms.

Keep reading: Best open-box kitchen appliance deals in Canada · Where to buy cheap small appliances in Toronto

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