Imagine a hot summer day. You reach for a refreshing glass of iced tea, only to find an empty ice tray. Disappointing, right? Many people rely on the ice maker in their side-by-side refrigerator every day. But what happens when it stops working or you need to buy a new fridge? Choosing the right ice maker can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands, features, and prices to consider!
Picking the perfect ice maker for your side-by-side refrigerator is important. You want a model that makes enough ice for your family. You also want one that is reliable and easy to use. Maybe you’re tired of constantly refilling ice trays. Or perhaps your current ice maker is noisy or breaks down often. These problems can be frustrating!
This blog post will help you understand ice makers in side-by-side refrigerators. We will explain the different types of ice makers and the features to look for. You’ll learn how to choose the best ice maker for your needs and budget. We’ll also share tips on how to keep your ice maker working well for years to come. Keep reading to become an ice maker expert!
Our Top 5 Ice Maker In Side By Side Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Ice Maker In Side By Side Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 46-51805 Counter-Depth Side Refrigerator/Freezer with Stainless Steel
Rating: 8.7/10
The Kenmore 46-51805 Counter-Depth Side Refrigerator/Freezer is a stylish and efficient appliance for your kitchen. This 36-inch refrigerator features a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish. It also has a convenient water and ice dispenser. The counter-depth design gives you a built-in look. It helps you save space.
What We Like:
- This refrigerator looks modern with its stainless steel finish.
- The water and ice dispenser provides easy access to refreshment.
- Accela Chill cools your groceries quickly.
- The Multi Flow air system keeps food fresh on every shelf.
- You can store large containers in the gallon-sized door bin.
- The adjustable glass shelves allow you to customize the space.
- It is ENERGY STAR certified, saving you money on your energy bill.
- The inverter compressor runs quietly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 20 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger families.
- Counter-depth refrigerators generally have less overall storage than standard-depth models.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a blend of style and functionality. If you are looking for a sleek, energy-efficient refrigerator, this model is worth considering.
2. THFRIONE Upgraded 18.1 Cu. Ft 36 Inch W. Side-by-Side Stainless Steel Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Rating: 8.6/10
The THFRIONE Upgraded 18.1 Cu. Ft Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a spacious and modern appliance. It has a stainless steel finish and many features. It includes an ice maker, water dispenser, and an inverter compressor. This refrigerator is designed for your home, kitchen, or office.
What We Like:
- The built-in ice maker and water dispenser give you easy access to ice and water. You can choose between ice cubes, crushed ice, and cold water.
- It has a large 18.1 cubic feet capacity. The adjustable shelves help you organize your food easily. LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside.
- The refrigerator offers six different modes. These modes include Ice Maker Off, Quick Chill, Quick Freeze, Intelligent Mode, Holiday Mode, and Custom Mode. This allows you to customize the refrigerator’s performance.
- The digital display is easy to use. You can adjust the temperature with a simple touch. The frost-free operation means you don’t have to manually defrost the refrigerator.
- The customer service team is available to help you with any questions. You can contact them through the user manual.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the digital display is convenient, some users might prefer physical buttons for temperature control.
- The water dispenser could potentially benefit from a larger dispensing area to accommodate taller containers.
This THFRIONE refrigerator offers a lot of great features and a large capacity. It is a good choice for anyone looking for a modern and functional refrigerator.
3. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity
Rating: 9.1/10
The Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a great choice for families. It has 22.2 cu. ft. of space. You can store a lot of food inside. The air filter keeps your food fresh. LED lights make it easy to see everything. It also has an ice maker. The stainless steel finish looks good in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The 22.2 cu. ft. capacity gives you lots of room for groceries.
- The air filter helps keep food fresh for longer.
- LED interior lighting makes it easy to see everything, even in the back.
- The built-in ice maker provides ice on demand.
- The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- Unfortunately, we don’t have specific details on performance or features to highlight any drawbacks. Without hands-on testing, it’s hard to say what could be improved.
This Frigidaire refrigerator offers ample space and useful features. It is a stylish and functional addition to your kitchen.
4. Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer with Full-Width Adjustable Glass Shelving
Rating: 8.7/10
The Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer offers a great blend of space and convenience for your kitchen. It has adjustable shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, and a built-in ice maker. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking clean and modern.
What We Like:
- This refrigerator fits a lot of food in a 33-inch wide space.
- The ice maker is included, so you don’t need to buy one separately. It makes up to 3 lbs of ice each day.
- You can move the glass shelves to fit tall bottles and other items.
- The crisper drawers have humidity control to keep fruits and vegetables fresh.
- The fingerprint-resistant finish helps keep the refrigerator looking clean.
- The door bins hold gallon-sized containers.
- It is ENERGY STAR certified, so it saves energy and money.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may prefer more freezer space.
- The ice maker can take up some freezer space.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a solid choice if you need a space-saving fridge with essential features. It combines style, efficiency, and practical storage to meet your everyday needs.
5. Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator Fridge
Rating: 8.9/10
The Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator is a stylish and spacious appliance designed to meet all your family’s food storage needs. This stainless steel refrigerator features a French door design with a convenient side freezer and a built-in water and ice dispenser. It boasts a nugget ice maker, cube ice option, adjustable thermostat, and a generous 20 cu ft capacity.
What We Like:
- Large capacity provides ample space for groceries and beverages.
- Modern French door design enhances the look of any kitchen.
- Automatic ice maker dispenses nugget ice and cube ice on demand.
- Water dispenser offers chilled water without opening the fridge.
- Multi-airflow cooling system keeps food fresh for longer.
- Automatic defrosting eliminates the need for manual defrosting.
- Removable door seals make cleaning easy.
- Intelligent microcomputer control allows precise temperature management.
- Door alarm alerts you if the door is left open.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (30.79″D x 35.75″W x 69.68″H) might be too large for smaller kitchens.
- Some users might prefer a different ice maker style.
Overall, the Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator offers a blend of style, convenience, and functionality for modern homes. It is a great option if you are looking for a refrigerator with all the latest features.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Ice Maker in Your Side-by-Side Fridge
Choosing a side-by-side refrigerator with a built-in ice maker can be a game-changer. No more ice trays! But, with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you understand what to look for and make the best choice for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a side-by-side fridge with an ice maker, consider these key features:
- Ice Production: How much ice does it make per day? A larger family needs a higher ice production rate. Look for models that produce at least 3-4 pounds of ice daily for a family of four.
- Ice Storage Capacity: Where does the ice go, and how much can it hold? A larger storage bin means fewer trips to empty it. Consider how often you use ice.
- Water Filtration: Does the fridge filter the water used for ice? A good water filter improves the taste of your ice and protects the ice maker from mineral buildup.
- Dispenser Options: Do you want crushed ice, cubed ice, or both? Some models offer different options, giving you more flexibility.
- Ice Maker Location: Where is the ice maker located? Some are in the door, maximizing shelf space. Others are inside the freezer compartment. Consider your space needs.
- Connectivity (Smart Features): Some newer models connect to your Wi-Fi. You can control the ice maker remotely or receive alerts when the ice bin is full.
Important Materials
The materials used in the ice maker and fridge affect its durability and performance.
- Plastic: Most ice maker components are made of plastic. Look for BPA-free, durable plastic.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel components are more resistant to rust and corrosion. They are often found in higher-end models.
- Water Lines: The water lines should be made of food-grade materials that won’t leach chemicals into your water. Copper or PEX tubing are common choices.
- Filter Housing: The filter housing should be made of sturdy material that can withstand water pressure.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can affect the quality and lifespan of your ice maker.
- Water Quality: Hard water or water with high mineral content can cause scale buildup in the ice maker. This reduces its efficiency and can lead to breakdowns. Using a water filter is crucial.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and filter replacement are essential for keeping your ice maker running smoothly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Temperature Control: Consistent temperature in the freezer is important. Fluctuations can affect ice production and quality.
- Air Circulation: Proper air circulation inside the freezer helps prevent ice clumps and keeps the ice maker working efficiently. Avoid overpacking the freezer.
- Installation: Correct installation is critical. Make sure the water line is properly connected and the fridge is level.
User Experience and Use Cases
A side-by-side fridge with an ice maker makes life easier.
- Convenience: Having ice readily available is a huge time-saver, especially for parties or everyday use.
- Family Use: A reliable ice maker is great for families who use a lot of ice for drinks, sports, or injuries.
- Entertaining: When hosting gatherings, a built-in ice maker ensures you always have enough ice for your guests.
- Hot Climates: If you live in a hot climate, a constant supply of ice can be a lifesaver.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the main benefits of having an ice maker in a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: The biggest benefits are convenience and a constant supply of ice. You don’t have to fill ice trays anymore!
Q: How much ice should a good ice maker produce daily?
A: For a family of four, look for a model that produces at least 3-4 pounds of ice per day.
Q: Do I need a water filter for my ice maker?
A: Yes! A water filter improves the taste of your ice and protects the ice maker from mineral buildup.
Q: How often should I replace the water filter?
A: Most manufacturers recommend replacing the water filter every six months.
Q: What happens if the ice maker stops working?
A: First, check the water supply line and make sure it’s connected properly. Also, check the freezer temperature. If it’s still not working, you might need to call a repair technician.
Q: Can hard water damage the ice maker?
A: Yes, hard water can cause scale buildup that damages the ice maker. A water filter helps prevent this.
Q: Where is the ice maker usually located in a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: It can be located either in the door of the freezer or inside the freezer compartment.
Q: Are ice makers noisy?
A: Some ice makers can be a little noisy when they’re making ice. However, newer models are usually quieter.
Q: What are some common problems with ice makers?
A: Common problems include ice maker freezing up, not producing ice, or making strange noises.
Q: Are smart ice makers worth the extra cost?
A: If you like having remote control and alerts, then a smart ice maker might be worth it. It depends on your personal preferences.
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 Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!