Imagine this: you’re about to enjoy a refreshing drink on a hot day, but your ice maker is empty. Frustrating, right? For many of us, a refrigerator with a built-in ice maker isn’t just a convenience; it’s a necessity. We rely on that steady stream of ice to keep our drinks perfectly chilled and our lives a little smoother.
But stepping into the world of refrigerators with ice makers can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many different types! Some make crescent-shaped ice, others are cubes, and some even make crushed ice. Then there are the options for water dispensers, smart features, and energy efficiency. Trying to figure out which one fits your kitchen and your lifestyle can be overwhelming, leaving you with more questions than answers.
That’s where we come in! This post is your friendly guide to understanding everything you need to know about refrigerators with ice makers. We’ll break down the different kinds of ice, explain what features really matter, and help you pinpoint the perfect model for your home. Get ready to say goodbye to ice-tray struggles and hello to effortless refreshment.
Our Top 5 Refrigerator With Ice Maker Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Refrigerator With Ice Maker Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 30 in. 18.1 cu. ft. Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer with Adjustable Glass Shelving
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Kenmore 30-inch Refrigerator/Freezer. This fridge offers a generous 18.1 cubic feet of storage, fitting neatly into your kitchen with its 30-inch wide design. It’s the perfect blend of style and smart functionality for any home.
What We Like:
- Spacious 18.1 cu. ft. capacity fits plenty of food.
- The 30-inch width is great for saving kitchen space.
- Comes with a factory-installed ice maker that makes up to 3 lbs. of ice daily.
- Adjustable glass shelves let you customize storage for different-sized items.
- Humidity-controlled crispers keep fruits and veggies fresh longer.
- A clear dairy compartment is perfect for butter and spreads.
- Clear door bins, including gallon-sized ones, help keep things organized.
- The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks sleek and stays clean.
- ENERGY STAR certified means it’s good for your wallet and the environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- The freezer door bins are clear, which is nice for visibility, but they might not be as sturdy as solid bins.
- While it has a good capacity, larger families might need more freezer space.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a solid choice for those seeking both style and practical features. It offers smart storage solutions and energy efficiency, making it a great addition to most kitchens.
2. Kenmore 46-51805 Counter-Depth Side Refrigerator/Freezer with Stainless Steel
Rating: 8.9/10
The Kenmore 46-51805 Counter-Depth Side Refrigerator/Freezer is a 36-inch appliance that brings both style and smart storage to your kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, keeping it looking sharp. You’ll love the convenience of the filtered water and ice dispenser right on the door, perfect for quick refreshments. Inside, you have 20 cubic feet of space to keep your groceries organized and fresh.
What We Like:
- It looks very stylish and modern with its stainless steel finish.
- The fingerprint-resistant surface means less cleaning.
- You get filtered ice and water right from the door.
- Accela Chill helps cool your food down quickly.
- The icemaker makes plenty of ice, either cubed or crushed.
- Food stays evenly cold thanks to the Multi Flow air system.
- There’s a large door bin that can hold gallon-sized items.
- Crisper drawers keep your fruits and veggies fresh for longer.
- Glass shelves can be adjusted to fit taller items easily.
- It’s ENERGY STAR Certified, saving you money on electricity bills.
- The inverter compressor makes it quiet and very energy efficient.
What Could Be Improved:
- While counter-depth, it might still stick out a bit more than some other models.
- The 20 cu. ft. capacity might be tight for very large families.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a great blend of modern design, useful features, and energy savings. It makes keeping your food fresh and your kitchen looking good a breeze.
3. BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator with Built-in Ice Maker
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the sleek BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator. This fridge brings a modern touch with its stylish French door design and convenient bottom freezer. It’s designed to make organizing your food easy and keeping it fresh a breeze.
What We Like:
- Modern French Door Style: It looks great in any kitchen and makes it easy to see everything inside.
- Spacious Organization: The fridge section offers plenty of room for all your groceries, and the freezer has good space too.
- Bottom Freezer with Ice Machine: The built-in ice maker is a handy feature, making up to 3.5 lbs. of ice daily.
- Digital Temperature Control: You can easily set the perfect temperature for both the fridge and freezer to keep your food just right.
- Energy Star Certified: This refrigerator is energy efficient, which means it saves you money on your electricity bills.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exact ice-making capacity can vary based on how cold the freezer is and how it’s being used.
This BLACK+DECKER refrigerator is a smart choice for its style, storage, and energy savings. It offers a great balance of features for most home kitchens.
4. Commercial Cool 20 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker
Rating: 9.3/10
Looking for a large, reliable refrigerator? The Commercial Cool 20 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator in black offers plenty of space and helpful features for any home. This 2-door model has a top freezer and a built-in ice maker, making it a convenient addition to your kitchen. It’s also Energy Star certified, so it’s good for your wallet and the environment.
What We Like:
- Generous 20 Cu. Ft. Capacity: This large refrigerator gives you plenty of room to store all your groceries, keeping them organized and easy to find.
- Top Freezer with Ice Machine: The included ice maker makes up to 3.5 lbs. of ice daily. You’ll always have ice ready for drinks.
- Independent Temperature Control: You can set the perfect temperature for both the fridge and freezer sections. This keeps your food at its best.
- Frost-Free Design: Say goodbye to manual defrosting! This refrigerator prevents ice buildup, saving you time and effort.
- Energy Star Certified: This fridge uses energy efficiently. It helps lower your electricity bills and is better for the planet.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exterior color is only black, limiting style options for some kitchens.
- The ice maker’s production rate can depend on freezer temperature and other conditions.
This Commercial Cool refrigerator provides excellent storage and convenient features for everyday use. It’s a solid choice for keeping your food fresh and your drinks chilled.
5. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity
Rating: 9.4/10
The Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers plenty of space for all your groceries and keeps them fresh. Its sleek stainless steel design looks modern and stylish. This fridge makes storing and finding food super easy.
What We Like:
- Generous 22.2 cu. ft. of total storage means you can fit lots of food.
- The air filter keeps your food smelling fresh and prevents odors from spreading.
- Bright LED interior lighting makes it easy to see everything inside, even in the back.
- The built-in ice maker always provides you with ice for drinks.
- The side-by-side layout makes it simple to organize and grab items from both the fridge and freezer sections.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” feature is a bit of a mystery, and we’d love to know more about it!
- While the stainless steel looks good, it can sometimes show fingerprints, requiring regular wiping.
This Frigidaire refrigerator is a solid choice for families needing ample storage and convenient features. It brings both style and functionality to your kitchen.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Refrigerator with an Ice Maker
Choosing a new refrigerator is a big decision. You want one that keeps your food fresh and makes life easier. A built-in ice maker can be a real game-changer. This guide will help you pick the best refrigerator with an ice maker for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
Ice Maker Type
- In-Door Ice Maker: These are often found in French door refrigerators. They save space inside the freezer.
- In-Freezer Ice Maker: This is the most common type. It’s usually a bin that fills with ice.
- Dispenser: Many refrigerators have a dispenser on the door. It can give you ice, water, or both. Some even crush ice!
Capacity and Size
- Measure your kitchen space carefully. You don’t want a fridge that’s too big or too small.
- Think about how much food you store. Larger families need more space.
Energy Efficiency
- Look for the ENERGY STAR label. These refrigerators use less electricity and save you money on your bills.
Storage and Organization
- Adjustable shelves let you customize the space.
- Crisper drawers keep fruits and vegetables fresh longer.
- Door bins are great for condiments and drinks.
Smart Features
- Some newer refrigerators connect to Wi-Fi. You can control settings from your phone. Some can even tell you when to change the water filter.
Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its durability and look.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. It’s strong and looks modern. It can sometimes show fingerprints.
- Black Stainless Steel: This offers the same look as regular stainless steel but is more resistant to fingerprints.
- Black or White Enamel: These are classic finishes. They are usually more affordable and easy to clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a refrigerator great or not so great.
What Makes it Better
- Build Quality: A well-built refrigerator will last longer. Listen for quiet operation.
- Temperature Control: Good refrigerators keep food at the right temperature. This prevents spoilage.
- Ice Production Speed: How quickly does it make ice? Some models are faster than others.
- Ice Storage Capacity: How much ice can it hold? This is important if you use a lot of ice.
What Can Make it Worse
- Frequent Ice Maker Breakdowns: Some ice makers can be tricky. Read reviews to see if a model has common ice maker issues.
- Noise: A loud refrigerator can be annoying.
- Water Leaks: Check for any signs of leaks from the ice maker or dispenser.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your refrigerator every day.
- For Families: A large capacity and a fast ice maker are great for busy families who entertain often. A door dispenser is very convenient for kids.
- For Singles or Couples: A smaller, energy-efficient model might be perfect. You might not need a massive ice maker.
- For Entertainers: Consider a refrigerator with a dual ice maker or a specialty ice shape, like crushed ice.
A refrigerator with an ice maker can make your life easier and more enjoyable. By considering these features, materials, and factors, you can find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often do I need to clean the ice maker?
A: It’s a good idea to clean your ice maker about every six months. This keeps the ice tasting fresh and prevents problems.
Q: Will an ice maker increase my electricity bill?
A: Yes, slightly. The motor that makes the ice uses some energy. However, modern, ENERGY STAR-rated refrigerators are very efficient.
Q: What if the ice maker stops working?
A: First, check if the ice maker is turned on. Also, make sure the water supply is connected and the water filter isn’t clogged. If problems continue, you may need to call a repair person.
Q: Can I turn off the ice maker if I don’t need it?
A: Most refrigerators with ice makers allow you to turn them off. This can save a little energy.
Q: Do refrigerators with ice makers use more water?
A: Yes, they do. The ice maker needs a constant water supply to make ice. If you have a well, make sure it can handle the extra water use.
Q: How long does an ice maker usually last?
A: With proper care, an ice maker can last for many years, often as long as the refrigerator itself. However, some parts might need replacing sooner.
Q: What is the difference between a built-in ice maker and a standalone ice maker?
A: A built-in ice maker is part of the refrigerator. A standalone ice maker is a separate appliance.
Q: Are refrigerators with ice makers more expensive?
A: Generally, yes. The added feature of an ice maker usually makes the refrigerator cost more upfront.
Q: What kind of water filter do I need for my refrigerator’s ice maker?
A: Most refrigerators use specialized water filters that are designed to fit their specific models. Check your owner’s manual for the correct filter type.
Q: Can I make ice without a water line connected?
A: No, a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker needs a direct water line connection to function. Some older or simpler models might have manual ice trays, but those don’t involve an automatic ice maker.
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!