Imagine this: you’re hosting a summer barbecue, the sun is shining, and your guests are thirsty. You open the freezer, ready to grab a big scoop of ice, only to find… a sad, empty tray. Or maybe you’re just tired of that slow, clunky ice maker that takes forever to make a decent amount of ice. We’ve all been there, staring at a refrigerator aisle filled with baffling choices.
Choosing a refrigerator with a built-in ice maker can feel like a challenge. You want one that makes ice quickly, tastes fresh, and doesn’t break the bank. But with so many different types, from sleek French doors to space-saving top freezers, where do you even start? It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the features and technical terms.
That’s why we’re here to help! In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about refrigerators with ice makers. We’ll explore the different kinds of ice makers, what to look for when you’re shopping, and how to avoid common pitfalls. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to pick the perfect refrigerator that keeps your drinks perfectly chilled, all year round.
Our Top 5 Refrigerator For Ice Maker Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Refrigerator For Ice Maker Detailed Reviews
1. 241798231 241798224 241798211 Ice Maker Replacement
Rating: 9.2/10
Is your Frigi-daire refrigerator not making ice anymore? Don’t let a faulty ice maker ruin your cold drinks! This 241798231 241798224 241798211 Ice Maker Replacement is designed to get your Frigi-daire back to producing ice, just like it did when it was new. It’s a great solution if your current ice maker has stopped working, is making strange noises, or won’t turn off.
What We Like:
- Wide Compatibility: This ice maker works with many Frigi-daire refrigerator models and replaces a long list of original part numbers, including 241642511, 241642501, and 241798201.
- Solves Common Problems: It effectively fixes issues like not making ice, noisy operation, and the ice maker failing to shut off.
- Easy to Install: The ice maker comes with a built-in wiring harness. You just need to unplug the old one and plug in the new one. It’s a simple DIY fix that saves you money on repair calls.
- Get Your Fridge Working Again: You can quickly get your refrigerator back to making ice with this replacement.
What Could Be Improved:
- Model Verification Needed: You must confirm it’s the right fit for your specific refrigerator model before purchasing.
- Customer Support for Fit: While they offer help if you can’t find the right part, this could be a slight inconvenience for some.
This ice maker replacement is a practical and budget-friendly way to fix your Frigi-daire. Make sure to double-check your model number to ensure a perfect match.
2. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 9.5/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. Its counter-depth design saves space, and the 20 cu. ft. capacity holds plenty of food. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks great and is easy to keep clean. This fridge is perfect for busy families and those who love to entertain.
What We Like:
- Space-Saving Design: The 36-inch counter-depth fits nicely in many kitchens without sticking out too far.
- Generous Storage: 20 cubic feet of space is plenty for groceries, leftovers, and party platters.
- Quick Cooling: Accela Chill gets your new groceries cold fast.
- Even Temperatures: The multi-flow air system keeps food fresh on every shelf.
- Convenient Dispenser: Get filtered water, cubed, or crushed ice easily.
- Easy-to-Clean Shelves: Spill-proof glass shelves make cleaning up messes simple.
- Energy Efficient: ENERGY STAR certified means it saves energy and money.
- Bright Lighting: LED lights make it easy to see everything inside.
- Quiet Operation: The inverter compressor is efficient and runs quietly.
- Stylish Finish: The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel looks good and resists smudges.
What Could Be Improved:
- Capacity for Very Large Families: For extremely large households, 20 cu. ft. might feel a bit tight.
- Water Filter Replacement Cost: Ongoing costs for water filter replacements should be considered.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a great blend of style, convenience, and efficiency. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen and keeping your food fresh.
3. BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Rating: 9.2/10
The BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker (BR1810HIMS) is a solid choice for anyone needing more room for their food. Its classic design fits well in most kitchens, whether you live in a house or an apartment. This fridge offers a good amount of space for both your groceries and frozen treats.
What We Like:
- Spacious 18.1 Cu. Ft. Capacity: Plenty of room for all your food.
- Top Freezer with Ice Machine: Makes up to 3.5 lbs. of ice daily, so you’re never short on ice cubes.
- Adjustable Temperature Control: You can easily set the perfect temperature for your fridge and freezer to keep food fresh.
- Frost-Free Auto-Defrost: No more messy ice buildup to clean out.
- Energy Star Certified: Saves you money on your electricity bill.
- Stainless Look: Gives your kitchen a modern feel.
What Could Be Improved:
- The ice maker’s daily production might vary depending on freezer temperature.
- Top freezer models require bending down to access the refrigerator section, which might be a con for some.
This refrigerator offers a great balance of features and value. It’s a practical appliance that helps keep your food fresh and your kitchen looking good.
4. BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Rating: 8.9/10
The BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker, BR1810HIMW in white is a solid choice for keeping your food fresh. This refrigerator offers plenty of room for groceries, making it a great fit for busy families or anyone who likes to stock up. The top freezer design is classic and easy to use, and it even comes with a handy ice maker.
What We Like:
- The 18.1 cubic feet of space is generous, holding lots of food for your household.
- The built-in ice maker makes up to 3.5 pounds of ice daily, which is super convenient.
- You can easily set the perfect temperature for both the fridge and freezer sections.
- The frost-free auto-defrost feature means no more messy ice buildup to clean.
- It’s ENERGY STAR certified, saving you money on your electricity bill and being kinder to the environment.
- The classic two-door design with a top freezer is familiar and functional for most kitchens.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the ice maker is a plus, its ice production can depend on freezer temperature and other conditions.
- The white color, while classic, might show dirt more easily than darker options.
This refrigerator is a practical and energy-saving appliance that simplifies food storage. It’s a reliable option for keeping your kitchen running smoothly.
5. Endurance Pro 241798224 Ice Maker Replacement for Electrolux Frigidaire Kenmore Sears Refrigerator 241642511 241798201 241798231
Rating: 9.4/10
Is your refrigerator suddenly ice-less? Don’t let a faulty ice maker ruin your next party or your morning iced coffee. The Endurance Pro 241798224 Ice Maker Replacement is here to bring back the chill! This high-quality OEM replacement is designed to fit a wide range of Electrolux, Frigidaire, Kenmore, and Sears refrigerators. It produces 8 cubes per cycle and features a smart automatic shut-off arm to prevent overfilling. If you’re experiencing no ice, icy debris, or water leaks, this could be the fix you need.
What We Like:
- Produces 8 cubes per cycle for ample ice production.
- Automatic shut-off arm prevents overfilling and potential messes.
- UL/CSA approved for safe operation and peace of mind.
- Comes with a 1-year, no-hassle warranty for worry-free ownership.
- Replaces a vast number of original part numbers, making it highly compatible.
- Designed to solve common ice maker problems like no ice, debris, or leaks.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some basic DIY skills or professional help.
- The long list of compatible models, while a pro, can be a bit overwhelming to sort through initially.
This Endurance Pro ice maker is a reliable solution to get your refrigerator producing ice again. With its strong warranty and broad compatibility, it’s a smart choice for many homeowners.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect Refrigerator for an Ice Maker
Thinking about adding a dedicated refrigerator for your ice maker? This can be a game-changer for parties, businesses, or even just for keeping your drinks perfectly chilled. Let’s dive into what you need to know to pick the best one.
Why a Refrigerator for an Ice Maker?
An ice maker refrigerator is usually a smaller, specialized fridge designed to keep ice solid and prevent it from melting. Some are built to sit right next to your ice maker, while others are standalone units. They’re great for keeping ice ready for any occasion.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind. They will help you find a refrigerator that works best for you.
- Capacity: How much ice do you need to store? Ice makers can produce a lot of ice quickly. You’ll want a refrigerator big enough to hold it all. Think about how often you use ice and how many people you usually serve.
- Temperature Control: Good temperature control is super important. You want it cold enough to keep ice from melting but not so cold that it freezes solid and becomes hard to scoop. Look for models with adjustable thermostats.
- Insulation: Better insulation means the refrigerator stays colder longer. This is especially helpful if you have power outages or live in a warm climate. It also helps save energy.
- Drainage System: Melting ice needs a place to go. A good drainage system prevents water from pooling inside the refrigerator. Some have built-in drains, while others require a bit more manual cleaning.
- Ease of Access: You’ll be scooping ice often. Make sure the door opens easily and the interior is well-lit. Shelving or baskets can help organize your ice.
- Energy Efficiency: Just like any appliance, you want something that doesn’t use too much electricity. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models. This saves you money on your power bill.
Important Materials
The materials used in your refrigerator affect its durability and how well it works.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for refrigerators. It looks good and is very strong. Stainless steel is also easy to clean. However, it can sometimes show fingerprints.
- Plastic (Interior): The inside of the refrigerator is often made of durable plastic. This material is easy to wipe down and won’t rust. Look for food-grade plastics that are safe for storing ice.
- Insulation Foam: This is what keeps the cold air inside. High-quality foam insulation is key to keeping your ice frozen efficiently.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a refrigerator better, while others can make it less ideal.
- Improved Quality:
- Strong Door Seals: A good seal around the door keeps cold air in and warm air out. This is crucial for keeping ice solid.
- Quiet Operation: You don’t want a noisy refrigerator. Look for models that are known for being quiet.
- Sturdy Construction: A well-built refrigerator will last longer. Check for solid hinges and a robust exterior.
- Reduced Quality:
- Poor Insulation: If the refrigerator doesn’t have good insulation, ice will melt quickly. This wastes energy and ice.
- Flimsy Shelves or Baskets: These can break or bend under the weight of ice.
- Difficult Controls: If the temperature controls are hard to understand or adjust, it can be frustrating to use.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the refrigerator will guide your choice.
- For Home Use: If you’re a busy host or just love having plenty of ice for drinks, a smaller, under-counter unit might be perfect. It can fit easily in your kitchen or bar area. Imagine always having ice ready for lemonade on a hot day or for guests at a barbecue.
- For Businesses: Restaurants, bars, or event venues need reliable ice storage. Larger capacity refrigerators or commercial-grade models are essential here. They need to keep up with high demand. Think about a busy restaurant kitchen where ice is constantly needed for drinks and food preparation.
- Portability: Some ice maker refrigerators are designed to be moved. This can be handy if you plan to use them for outdoor events or need to relocate them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a refrigerator for an ice maker?
A: Its main purpose is to store ice produced by an ice maker and keep it frozen so it doesn’t melt.
Q: How much ice can these refrigerators typically hold?
A: Capacity varies greatly. Some small units hold around 25 pounds, while larger commercial ones can hold 100 pounds or more.
Q: Do I need a special electrical outlet for these refrigerators?
A: Most standard ice maker refrigerators use a regular household electrical outlet. Always check the product specifications.
Q: Can I just use any small refrigerator to store ice?
A: While you could, a dedicated ice maker refrigerator is designed to maintain colder temperatures specifically for ice, preventing melting and clumping much better.
Q: How do I clean a refrigerator for an ice maker?
A: You should unplug it and remove all ice. Then, use a mild soap and water solution to wipe down the interior and exterior. Rinse and dry thoroughly before plugging it back in.
Q: Are these refrigerators noisy?
A: Noise levels vary by model. Look for reviews that mention quiet operation if this is a concern for you.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a refrigerator for an ice maker?
A: With proper care and maintenance, they can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
Q: How important is the drainage system?
A: It’s very important. A good drainage system prevents water buildup from melting ice, which can lead to mold and damage.
Q: Can I store other food items in a refrigerator meant for an ice maker?
A: It’s not recommended. These refrigerators are optimized for freezing ice, and storing food might affect the ice quality or the refrigerator’s efficiency.
Q: Where is the best place to put a refrigerator for an ice maker?
A: Place it in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight or heat sources like ovens. This helps it run more efficiently.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!