How does the Frigidaire EFIC108-BLACK ice maker perform? A full review!

Description

Ease of Use

Operating the Frigidaire EFIC108-BLACK ice maker is as straightforward as it gets. I set it up within minutes, which was a relief since I don’t have endless patience for overly complicated gadgets. All I had to do was fill the reservoir with water, plug it in, and press a button on the digital LED control panel. Even my less tech-savvy relatives found it intuitive to use during family gatherings. The compact countertop design is a plus, allowing me to move it between the kitchen and my patio without breaking a sweat.

Ice Production Speed

This machine is impressively fast. It churns out ice in as little as six minutes, which honestly feels like magic when you’re hosting a party and someone just finished off the last cube. I tested this during a barbecue, and it kept up with a crowd of thirsty guests without breaking a sweat. The advertised capacity of 26 pounds per day definitely holds true, making it a lifesaver for events or even just a busy household. No more running out to buy bags of ice!

Features

The Frigidaire EFIC108-BLACK comes with a handful of features that make ice-making a breeze. The LED control panel lets me toggle between small and large ice sizes depending on the occasion—perfect for cocktails or soda. The see-through lid is oddly satisfying; I found myself watching the ice being made more often than I’d like to admit. It also includes an ice basket and shovel, which are conveniently sized for scooping and serving. The 2.3-quart water reservoir is another handy feature, as it maximizes ice production before needing to refill.

Durability

Durability is always a concern with appliances, and this ice maker seems to hold its own. The build feels solid, and after months of daily use, it still performs like new. I’ve moved it around a few times, and it survived without any visible wear or tear. While I haven’t dropped it (thank goodness!), it feels robust enough to withstand some bumps. My only minor gripe is the ice shovel, which feels a bit flimsy compared to the rest of the unit.

Ice Quality & Type

The ice cubes this machine produces are bullet-shaped and come in two sizes—small and large. Personally, I love how chewable they are, especially the smaller size, which my kids seem to adore. The ice is clear and melts at a reasonable pace, keeping my drinks chilled without watering them down too quickly. Compared to the cloudy cubes from my refrigerator’s built-in ice maker, these are a noticeable upgrade.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are always a concern with appliances, and this ice maker is relatively quiet. The hum of the machine is soft enough that it’s barely noticeable unless you’re standing right next to it. The only time it gets a bit louder is when the ice drops into the basket, but even that is more of a light clatter than an annoying noise. I’ve used it late at night without waking up anyone in the house, which is a major win.

Warranty

The warranty on this unit is pretty standard. While I haven’t had to use it yet, it’s reassuring to know there’s a safety net if something goes wrong. I’ve read mixed experiences with customer service for similar appliances, so fingers crossed I won’t need to test that out.

Advantages

• Produces ice in as little as six minutes
• Compact and portable design fits easily on any countertop
• Two ice size options for versatility
• Quiet operation suitable for any time of day

Weaknesses

• The ice shovel feels cheaply made
• Ice doesn’t stay frozen for long and starts to melt if left in the basket
• Requires manual draining and cleaning regularly

Product Rivals

In comparison to other portable ice makers like the GE Profile Opal and the Igloo ICEB26HNSS, this Frigidaire model holds its ground remarkably well. The GE Opal is pricier but offers nugget-style ice, which some people prefer for its texture. However, it’s bulkier and less portable. The Igloo model, on the other hand, is similarly priced but doesn’t feel as durable, and its ice production speed lags behind. For its size and price range, the Frigidaire EFIC108-BLACK offers excellent value.

Smart Spending

Considering its features and performance, this ice maker provides excellent value for its price. Sure, there are more luxurious options out there, but they come with a heftier price tag without necessarily offering better performance. If you’re looking for a reliable, compact, and efficient ice maker for everyday use or entertaining, this one is worth every penny.

Additional information