Comparison Table
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
Price
Unbelievably, a nugget ice machine may cost more than $10,000. The priciest models are from manufacturers like Manitowoc, who primarily sell their equipment to pubs and restaurants. Fortunately, there are a few affordable countertop nugget ice makers designed for households.
These models, which typically cost between $400 and $700, are by no means cheap, but they are the quickest and most affordable way to achieve the mouthwatering chewable ice you desire.
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Yield
You should consider how many people will be chowing down on the ice in your home before making a nugget ice maker purchase. You should also consider how quickly the ice can be generated (ounces per hour) and how big the maker's ice bin is (also represented in ounces).
Ice Maker Style
Due to their low cost and simplicity of purchase, countertop ice makers are the most frequently suggested ice makers in our book. A few appliance producers, such as GE, have developed integrated ice machines that are mounted beneath your kitchen counters. This model normally costs between $3,000 and $5,500, but it produces and stores more ice, making it a suitable option for folks who host parties frequently. Before buying an ice maker, don't forget to measure the area where it will go.
Storage Capacity
A crucial decision factor is storage capacity. The freshly formed cubes can be kept in storage containers found on all nugget ice producers. It will need to be emptied less regularly the bigger the container is. Some even have a maximum weight capacity of 25 pounds!
1. How Come Nugget Ice Makers Cost So Much More Than Other Ice Makers?
We don't know for sure, but we believe the reason is that making nugget ice is a trickier operation. Purely frozen water makes up regular ice. To achieve that fluffy, chewy ice texture, nugget ice must be shone, compacted, and extruded.
2. What Does the Name "Sonic Ice Makers" Mean?
Chewy ice was initially used by the Sonic restaurant franchise. The majority of individuals first encounter chewy ice there. The terms "Sonic ice," "nugget ice," "chewy ice," and "pellet ice" all refer to the same thing.
3. How Frequently Should a Nugget Ice Maker Be Cleaned?
Numerous factors determine how frequently to clean. Numerous instruction manuals advise weekly cleanings, however, we've discovered that using filtered water allows you to get away with cleaning every two months or so.
We've also read several customer evaluations from die-hard fans of nugget ice who have discussed their positive and negative encounters with the Best nugget ice makers for home. The models mentioned above will bring your favorite chewable ice into your kitchen, last the longest, and require the least amount of maintenance.
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