Uncover the Igloo Countertop Ice Maker Review: Does It Really Perform Well?

Description

Features

The Igloo Premium Self-Cleaning Countertop Ice Maker Machine, model IGLICEB26HNBK, has a lot going for it in terms of a compact design and thoughtful features. I was immediately drawn to its sleek black finish and the convenient carry handle, which makes it easy to move around. The self-cleaning function, which runs through five automatic cycles, is a game-changer for someone like me who is not a fan of manual cleaning. The LED control panel is not just intuitive but also keeps you informed about water levels, whether the ice basket is full, and lets you select your preferred ice size—small or large.

The viewing window is another nifty feature. I found myself peeking inside like a kid watching a candy machine, just to see the ice-making process. The basket has a reasonable capacity, holding up to 1.25 pounds of ice, which is perfect for a small gathering or daily use. I also appreciated that it can churn out up to 26 pounds of ice in a day, which is more than enough for my family’s needs.

Ice Quality & Type

The machine produces bullet-shaped ice cubes, which I find to be both functional and visually appealing. These cubes aren’t too big, making them ideal for water bottles and cocktails alike. My kids love them for their juice, and the texture is just right—not too hard, not too soft. You get the choice of small or large cubes, though I mainly stick to the small ones as they chill drinks quicker.

One thing I noticed is that the ice melts a bit faster if left in the basket for too long, as it’s not refrigerated. To get around this, I transfer the ice to the freezer if I’m not using it immediately.

Ice Production Speed

This machine is a speed demon when it comes to ice production. The first batch of ice comes out in just about 6–8 minutes, which is impressive. I’ve timed it during family dinners and found that even with multiple drinks being served, the machine keeps up without breaking a sweat.

I think this is fantastic for parties or any situation where you need ice on demand. It does slow down slightly if the room temperature is too high, but that’s a minor inconvenience compared to its overall efficiency.

Noise Levels

Noise is an area where this product surprised me. While I expected it to hum away like a small refrigerator, it’s actually quieter than I thought. You can hear a soft whirring sound when it’s operational, but it’s not intrusive.

I’ve had it running in the kitchen while watching TV in the adjacent living room, and it hasn’t been a distraction. However, if you’re particularly sensitive to noise, it’s worth noting that the occasional clunk of ice dropping into the basket might catch your attention.

Ease of Use

Using this ice maker is as straightforward as it gets. The LED panel is easy to understand, even for someone like my elderly mother, who’s not the most tech-savvy. Filling the water tank is a breeze, and draining it is equally hassle-free, thanks to the compact design.

The handle makes it portable, so I’ve taken it out to the patio for barbecue nights. I do wish the instructions for the self-cleaning function were a little clearer, as I had to skim through the manual a couple of times to get it right.

Durability

On the durability front, this Igloo model feels solid. The materials don’t scream “cheap,” and the overall build quality is decent for a countertop appliance. I’ve been using it daily for a few months, and it shows no signs of wear or performance issues.

That said, I’ve read reviews where people mentioned it conking out after a year or so. To be on the safe side, I opted for an extended warranty. It’s better to have that peace of mind, especially for something that gets frequent use.

Warranty

Speaking of warranties, this machine comes with a standard one-year warranty. While that’s nice, I highly recommend opting for an extended plan. Ice makers, in general, seem to have a reputation for short lifespans, and based on other user experiences, it’s better to be prepared.

I haven’t had to use the warranty yet, but knowing it’s there gives me some confidence.

Pros

Here are some key benefits that make this ice maker stand out:

• Fast Ice Production: Ice cubes in as little as 6–8 minutes.
• Portable Design: The carry handle makes it easy to move around.
• Self-Cleaning Feature: Keeps the machine hygienic with minimal effort.
• Choice of Ice Sizes: Small and large cubes to suit different needs.
• Compact Yet High-Capacity: Fits on the counter but produces up to 26 lbs of ice daily.

Shortcomings

Despite its strengths, there are a few areas for improvement:

• No Refrigeration for Ice Basket: Ice tends to melt if not used promptly.
• Instructions Could Be Clearer: The manual is a bit vague on some aspects, like the self-cleaning process.
• Potential Longevity Issues: Some users report it failing after a year or two of use.

Product Comparisons

When compared to competing brands like NewAir and GE Profile nugget ice makers, the Igloo model holds its ground well in terms of affordability and simplicity. The NewAir units, while pricier, often come with more advanced features like app connectivity, but they are bulkier and have a mixed reputation for reliability.

The GE Profile units are a dream for nugget ice lovers but come with a hefty price tag that might not justify the investment for casual users. On the other hand, this Igloo machine is a great middle-ground option—it’s user-friendly, efficient, and doesn’t cost a fortune.

Where this Igloo machine shines is in its speed and convenience. However, it falls short in durability when compared to some higher-end models.

Cost Efficiency

For its price, this countertop ice maker offers solid value for money. It’s not the cheapest on the market, but it delivers on its promises without you having to shell out a small fortune.

Considering that I no longer need to buy bags of ice for parties or everyday use, this machine has already started to pay for itself. If you value convenience and don’t want to invest in a high-end unit, this is a smart choice.

While it may not last you a decade, the features and functionality make it a worthwhile purchase for its price point.

Additional information