Does the Cotlin drainless under counter ice maker live up to reviews?

Description

Features

The COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker with 22LBS Storage Bin, also known as the COTLIN drainless ice maker, immediately stood out to me with its brushed stainless steel design. It’s sleek, modern, and surprisingly easy to clean. The reversible door and adjustable feet were a game-changer for me, as I could fit it seamlessly into my kitchen layout without calling in reinforcements (aka a professional installer). And the best part? It doesn’t require a drain! Not having to fiddle with a drainage pipe was a relief, and it made the setup process almost laughably simple. Just connect the water supply and power, and it’s good to go. Trust me, if I can install it without causing chaos, anyone can.

Durability

Having tested this ice maker daily for weeks, I can vouch for its durability. The stainless steel exterior doesn’t just look good—it holds up well against fingerprints, scratches, and general wear and tear. I’ve had a few clumsy moments accidentally bumping into it while rushing through the kitchen, and it still looks like new. The unit feels solidly built, and it’s clear that the manufacturers didn’t skimp on materials. Knowing it’s ETL-certified also gives me peace of mind about its long-term reliability. My previous ice maker didn’t even last two years, so I’m optimistic this one will stick around for much longer.

Ice Production Speed

This thing churns out ice like a machine on a mission. Within minutes of turning it on, I had fresh crescent-shaped ice cubes ready to go. It’s efficient without being overwhelming—producing just the right amount to keep up with my family’s needs during daily use and our occasional gatherings. I once forgot to prep ice before a small party, but this ice maker saved me from the embarrassment of running out. It produces ice at a consistent speed without any hiccups, which is more than I can say for some other brands I’ve tried in the past.

Ice Quality & Type

I was genuinely impressed by the quality of ice this machine produces. The crescent-shaped cubes are crystal clear, tasteless, and melt slower than the chunky cubes I used to get from my old fridge. They’re perfect for keeping drinks cool without watering them down too quickly. My kids even commented on how “cool” the crescent shape looks in their sodas—it’s the little things, right? If you’re someone who enjoys a perfectly chilled drink, these cubes are definitely a win.

Noise Levels

I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical about the noise factor before testing this ice maker. My previous unit sounded like a jackhammer every time it started up, and I was dreading a repeat performance. Thankfully, this machine operates quietly enough that it doesn’t disrupt conversations or movie nights. You’ll hear a soft hum when it’s running, but it’s far from bothersome. Even my noise-sensitive dog didn’t react to it, which speaks volumes.

Ease of Use

Using this ice maker is ridiculously simple. A single press of a button starts the ice-making process, and there aren’t any confusing settings to mess with. Honestly, I think my tech-averse grandmother could handle it without needing a tutorial. The reversible door hinge was a lifesaver for my oddly shaped kitchen, and the adjustable feet made it easy to level the unit on my slightly uneven floor. It’s one of those appliances that just works without needing a deep dive into the instruction manual.

Warranty

Knowing that COTLIN offers lifetime service support is a big plus. It’s rare to see companies back their products so confidently, and it shows they’re serious about quality. While I haven’t had to use the warranty yet (fingers crossed it stays that way), it’s reassuring to know it’s there. With my previous ice maker, I had to jump through hoops just to get basic support, so this is a refreshing change.

Bang for the Buck

In terms of price performance, this ice maker hits the sweet spot. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the features and benefits you get more than justify the investment. Compared to other models that require complex installation or additional plumbing, this one offers great value for its ease of use and overall performance. If you’re someone who values convenience and quality, I’d say it’s worth every penny.

Advantages

• Produces high-quality crescent-shaped ice cubes
• Easy installation with no drain required
• Quiet operation suitable for residential use
• Durable stainless steel design with adjustable features

Shortcomings

• Slightly bulky for smaller kitchens
• Lacks a designated holder for the ice scoop
• Limited color options—stainless steel is sleek but not everyone’s style

Competing Products

While testing the COTLIN drainless ice maker, I also looked into a few competitors, like the EdgeStar IB120SS and the Scotsman CU50GA. The EdgeStar was similar in size and price, but it required a drain, which made installation more complicated. On the other hand, the Scotsman model offered nugget ice, which some people might prefer, but it came at a significantly higher cost and was noisier in operation. Compared to these, the COTLIN stands out for its balance of efficiency, ease of use, and affordability. Its crescent ice is unique and practical for everyday use, especially if you’re not set on nugget-style cubes.

Additional information