Review of Icemage HS-22 Ice Maker Countertop Large Capacity and Fast Performance

Description

A Reliable and Convenient Ice Maker for All Occasions

Testing the icemage HS-22 Ice Makers Countertop has been quite the experience, especially since I’m someone who values efficiency and convenience in kitchen appliances. This 38-pound capacity ice maker has proven to be a solid performer with a few quirks that are worth discussing. Whether it’s for chilling drinks during parties or keeping beverages cold while camping, this machine has shown its versatility.

Compact Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed was the sleek stainless steel finish. It looks modern and fits seamlessly on most countertops without taking up too much space. Measuring 9.5″ x 13.4″ x 11.6″, it’s compact but still manages to hold a significant amount of ice. The machine feels sturdy, and at 19.6 pounds, it’s portable enough to move around when needed.

What stood out to me was the self-cleaning function that simplifies maintenance. Just press a button, and the machine cleans itself – a feature I really appreciated after using it multiple times. However, I wouldn’t call this a completely “set it and forget it” appliance since the water reservoir still needs regular attention to ensure the ice remains fresh and clean.

Performance and Ice-Making Speed

This ice maker is fast – like, surprisingly fast. In just 3.5 minutes, it churns out 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes. If you’re in no rush, the larger ice setting takes about 5 minutes, which is still impressive. The 170-watt compressor works efficiently, producing up to 38 pounds of ice per day. I hosted a family gathering recently, and this machine kept up with the demand without breaking a sweat.

One feature I particularly liked was the option to choose between small and large ice sizes. The smaller cubes are perfect for cocktails and quick chilling, while the larger ones are well-suited for keeping drinks cold for longer periods. That said, I did notice that the large ice cubes occasionally stuck together in the bin, requiring a quick tap with the included ice scoop to separate them.

Quiet Operation

Another big plus is the quiet operation. At just 45 dB, it’s quieter than most appliances in my kitchen. I could barely hear it running even when sitting nearby, which is a huge bonus for anyone who dislikes noisy gadgets. If you’re planning to use this in an RV or a small kitchen, the low noise level makes it an unobtrusive addition.

Key Benefits

• Quick ice production: 9 cubes in just 3.5 minutes.
• Large daily capacity: Produces up to 38 pounds of ice per day.
• Compact design: Fits well in kitchens, RVs, or even for camping.
• Quiet operation: Keeps noise to a minimum at 45 dB.
• Self-cleaning feature: Simplifies maintenance for cleaner ice.

Areas for Improvement

While this ice maker has many strengths, it’s not without its flaws.

• Limited water capacity: The reservoir needs frequent refills for continuous use.
• Occasional ice clumping: Larger cubes sometimes stick together.
• No storage insulation: Ice begins to melt if left unused for too long, though the machine recycles the water for future cycles.

Product Rivals

Comparing this to other ice makers, such as the GE Profile Opal or the Frigidaire EFIC108, the icemage HS-22 stands out for its lower noise level and faster cycle times. However, the GE Profile Opal offers a nugget-style ice option, which some people prefer for its chewable texture. On the other hand, the Frigidaire model is slightly more affordable but lacks the self-cleaning feature, making the icemage HS-22 a better choice for hassle-free maintenance.

Where this ice maker truly excels is in its bullet-shaped ice versatility and compact size, which some competitors struggle to match. However, I did find the storage insulation on the GE Profile Opal to be superior, as it keeps ice frozen longer without melting.

Affordable Quality

When it comes to cost efficiency, I’d say this ice maker offers fantastic value for its features. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the combination of quick ice production, quiet operation, and a self-cleaning function makes it a worthwhile investment. If you’re someone who enjoys hosting parties, camping, or just having a steady supply of ice on hand, this machine is a practical choice.

In summary, the icemage HS-22 Ice Makers Countertop delivers on its promises of speed, convenience, and efficiency. While it’s not flawless, the positives significantly outweigh the negatives, making it a reliable addition to any home or RV setup.

Additional information