COTLIN 15″ Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker Review Built for Home and Commercial Use

Description

A Sleek and Functional Design

The COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker offers a design that feels both modern and practical. With its brushed stainless steel finish, this ice maker doesn’t just look stunning but is also incredibly durable and resistant to smudges. I’ve placed it under my kitchen counter, and it fit seamlessly thanks to its compact dimensions of 14.9″W x 18.6″D x 33.8″H. The reversible door was a lifesaver since I needed the hinge on the opposite side, and the adjustable feet made leveling it easy even on uneven flooring. It’s not just an appliance—it’s a statement piece that blends well in both residential and commercial setups.

The controls are minimal yet efficient. A one-touch switch simplifies the process—press, and it gets to work. No confusing menus or elaborate setup, just straightforward functionality.

Unique Crescent Ice for Premium Drinks

What truly sets this ice maker apart is its ability to produce crescent-shaped ice cubes. These ice cubes aren’t just about aesthetics (though they do look fancy in a glass). They melt slower compared to regular cubes, keeping drinks cooler for longer without diluting them too quickly. I tried them with a variety of drinks—cocktails, iced tea, and even soda—and the pure, tasteless ice enhanced the overall experience. If you’re someone who enjoys hosting or loves high-quality beverages, this feature alone makes the product stand out.

The freezing system maintains the ice between 26.6-32°F, ensuring the cubes stay solid for hours. I once left a batch in the storage bin overnight, and they were still intact the next morning.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Setting this up was impressively hassle-free. The drainless design meant I didn’t need to deal with complex drainage systems or hire a plumber. All I had to do was connect the water supply connector and plug it in—done in minutes. This is a game-changer for someone like me who isn’t exactly handy with tools.

Cleaning is equally convenient. The stainless steel surface wipes down effortlessly, and since there’s no drainage system, there’s one less component to worry about maintaining. I found myself appreciating how this product eliminates unnecessary complications while still delivering excellent performance.

Positives

There’s a lot to love about this ice maker. Here are some of the key benefits I’ve noticed:

• Durable brushed stainless steel build that resists wear and tear.
• Compact size and adjustable features make it fit into almost any space.
• Crescent-shaped ice is both premium-looking and practical, melting slower than traditional cubes.
• Drainless technology simplifies installation and eliminates the need for plumbing.
• Efficient freezing system that keeps ice perfectly solid at optimal temperatures.

Areas of Concern

While I genuinely like this ice maker, there are a few pitfalls to consider:

• It’s not the quietest appliance. During the ice-making process, there’s a noticeable hum that could be distracting in quieter environments.
• The storage bin, though decent at 22 pounds, may not be enough for larger gatherings or high-demand commercial use.
• Crescent ice, while elegant, might not appeal to those who prefer more traditional cube shapes.

Competing Products

There are plenty of market rivals in the under-counter ice maker category, but this one holds its own in several ways. For instance, products like the Scotsman CU50GA or the EdgeStar IB120SS also offer compact designs and high-quality ice. However, the COTLIN model’s drainless feature gives it a distinct advantage.

That being said, some competitors do have a larger storage capacity or slightly quieter operation. For example, the Scotsman can store up to 26 pounds of ice, which is more than the 22 pounds here. However, those models often demand more complex installations, which isn’t ideal for everyone.

The COTLIN ice maker excels in its ease of use, minimal maintenance, and ability to produce unique crescent ice. It’s a great pick for those prioritizing convenience and aesthetics.

Worth Every Penny

Considering its features and usability, this ice maker strikes an excellent balance between quality and price. While it might not be the cheapest option on the market, its drainless design, ETL certification, and high-quality ice output make it a solid investment. If you’re someone who values convenience and elegance in one package, this is a product that’s worth every penny.

Whether you’re outfitting your kitchen, bar, or even a small office space, this ice maker delivers on its promises.