Imagine this: you’re hosting a summer barbecue, your guests are thirsty, and suddenly you realize your ice bin is completely empty. Disaster! The built-in ice maker in your side-by-side refrigerator is supposed to be a lifesaver, but choosing the *right* one can feel like a puzzle. You want perfectly formed cubes, a reliable supply, and a machine that doesn’t make a racket.
Navigating the world of refrigerator ice makers can be overwhelming. You might wonder about different types of ice, how much ice you’ll actually need, or which brands are the most dependable. It’s easy to feel lost in a sea of features and technical jargon. This post is here to help you cut through the confusion and find the ice maker that will keep your drinks perfectly chilled, all the time.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the key things to look for, from ice production rates to maintenance tips. We’ll break down what makes a great ice maker and help you avoid common pitfalls. Get ready to become an ice-making expert and make your next gathering a frosty success!
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 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 8.6/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer offers a stylish and functional solution for your kitchen. This counter-depth model fits seamlessly into your cabinetry, giving your kitchen a clean, modern look. It boasts a generous 20 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for busy families and those who love to entertain. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking sharp with minimal effort.
What We Like:
- The Accela Chill feature quickly cools down new groceries.
- The Multi-Flow Air System ensures consistent temperatures throughout.
- You get instant access to fresh, filtered water and cubed or crushed ice.
- The adjustable, edge-to-edge glass shelves are spill-proof and easy to clean.
- They offer flexible storage for various food items and containers.
- ENERGY STAR certification means it’s energy efficient and saves you money.
- Bright LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside.
- The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish stays looking good.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers ample space, some larger families might wish for even more capacity.
- The counter-depth design, while sleek, means slightly less interior space than a standard-depth model.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a fantastic addition to any home, blending style, convenience, and efficiency.
2. Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity
Rating: 9.0/10
The Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers a generous 22.2 cubic feet of space, meaning you can store all your groceries with ease. The sleek stainless steel finish looks great, and the side-by-side design makes it simple to grab what you need. Plus, it comes with helpful features like an air filter to keep your food fresh and bright LED lights inside.
What We Like:
- Lots of storage space for all your food.
- Bright LED lights make it easy to see everything.
- The air filter helps keep your food smelling and tasting fresh.
- The built-in ice maker is super convenient.
- The stainless steel look adds a modern touch to your kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer and easier to understand.
- Some users have reported that the ice maker can be a bit noisy at times.
- More color options would be nice for different kitchen decors.
This Frigidaire refrigerator is a solid choice for families who need ample storage and modern features. It’s a reliable appliance that will serve your household well.
3. Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer with Full-Width Adjustable Glass Shelving
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer in sleek black. This fridge offers a generous 20.4 cubic feet of space, making it a great fit for families and busy households. You’ll find plenty of room for all your groceries, from fresh produce to frozen treats. The adjustable glass shelves let you customize the interior to fit your needs, whether you’re storing a tall pitcher or a large cake. Plus, it’s ENERGY STAR certified, so it helps you save money on your electricity bill.
What We Like:
- It has a large 20.4 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for stocking up on food.
- The full-width adjustable glass shelves are super handy for fitting big items.
- Gallon door storage makes it easy to reach your favorite drinks and condiments.
- Humidity-controlled crispers keep your fruits and veggies fresh longer.
- An ice maker is built-in, so you always have ice ready to go.
- It’s ENERGY STAR certified, which means it’s good for the environment and your wallet.
- Bright LED lighting illuminates the inside so you can see everything clearly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The freezer door bins are full-width, which might make it tricky to organize very small frozen items.
- While it has a dairy drawer, some users might prefer more specialized compartments for other items.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a solid choice for anyone needing more space and smart features. It balances good storage with energy efficiency, making it a practical addition to your kitchen.
4. Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer with Full-Width Adjustable Glass Shelving
Rating: 9.1/10
The Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator/Freezer is a smart choice for busy households. Its spacious design and handy features make keeping your food fresh and organized a breeze. Plus, its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Plenty of space inside for all your groceries, with 20.4 cubic feet of storage.
- The adjustable glass shelves let you fit tall items like drink pitchers or even a whole cake.
- Gallon door bins are perfect for storing large milk jugs and other drinks.
- Humidity-controlled crispers keep your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer.
- The ENERGY STAR certification means it’s good for your wallet and the environment by saving energy.
- A factory-installed ice maker is ready to give you up to 3 pounds of ice a day.
- The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish wipes clean easily, so it always looks nice.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the freezer door bins a bit small for larger frozen items.
- While it has good capacity, very large families might need even more space.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a great balance of space, convenience, and style. It’s a solid option for keeping your food organized and fresh.
5. BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator with Built-in Ice Maker
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the sleek BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator. This stylish appliance brings modern elegance to your home with its black finish and convenient French door design. It offers plenty of space to keep all your food fresh and organized.
What We Like:
- The modern French door style adds a touch of class to any kitchen.
- It provides a generous 11.15 cu. ft. of refrigerator space and 5.06 cu. ft. of freezer space, so you can store all your groceries easily.
- The bottom freezer drawer includes a built-in ice maker that can produce up to 3.5 lbs. of ice daily.
- Digital temperature controls let you set the perfect temperature for both the fridge and freezer.
- It’s ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it’s energy efficient and can help save you money on your electricity bills.
What Could Be Improved:
- The ice maker’s production rate can vary based on freezer temperature and operating conditions.
- For larger families, the 16 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small.
This BLACK+DECKER refrigerator is a fantastic choice for those seeking both style and functionality. It’s a smart investment for any modern kitchen.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Built-In Ice Maker in Your Side-by-Side Refrigerator
So, you’re looking for a new side-by-side refrigerator, and the built-in ice maker is a big deal for you. That’s smart! Having ice ready to go is super convenient. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you understand what to look for, what makes a good ice maker, and how it will fit into your life.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Ice Production Capacity: How much ice does the maker create in a day? Think about how much ice your family uses. Do you entertain a lot or just need ice for drinks? A higher capacity is better for busy households.
- Ice Storage Bin Size: This is the container that holds your ice. A bigger bin means you won’t run out of ice as quickly.
- Ice Shape: Most refrigerators make cubed ice. Some offer crushed ice, which is great for cocktails or filling water bottles.
- Water Filter: A good water filter is essential for clean-tasting ice. Look for refrigerators with easy-to-replace filters.
- Dispenser Type: Will you use the dispenser often? Some have simple ice and water dispensers, while others offer more options like filtered water or different ice shapes.
- Smart Features: Some newer models have apps that let you monitor your ice maker or even order replacement filters.
Important Materials
The materials used in your ice maker matter for durability and hygiene.
- Ice Bin: Most ice bins are made of sturdy plastic. Look for BPA-free plastic for safety.
- Water Lines: These are usually made of flexible plastic or copper. Make sure they are food-grade and won’t affect the taste of your ice.
- Internal Components: The parts that actually make the ice are typically made of durable plastics and metals.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make an ice maker work better or cause problems.
- Improved Quality:
- Reliable Brand: Stick with well-known refrigerator brands. They usually have a good track record for quality and customer service.
- Good Reviews: Read reviews from other customers. They can tell you about real-world performance and any common issues.
- Easy Maintenance: An ice maker that’s easy to clean and has accessible parts will last longer and stay hygienic.
- Reduced Quality:
- Clogging: If the water line or filter clogs, your ice maker won’t work properly.
- Freezing Up: Sometimes, the ice maker can freeze up, stopping ice production. This might be due to temperature issues or a faulty component.
- Leaking: A poorly sealed ice maker or water line can lead to leaks, which can damage your floor.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your refrigerator’s ice maker every day.
- Everyday Convenience: The best part is having ice readily available for your drinks. No more buying bags of ice!
- Entertaining: When you have guests over, an efficient ice maker is a lifesaver. You’ll always have enough ice for everyone.
- Filling Water Bottles: If you like to fill reusable water bottles, a dispenser that can handle this easily is a big plus.
- Kid-Friendly: For families with kids, a dispenser that’s easy for them to use can be a big hit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often should I clean my ice maker?
A: It’s a good idea to clean your ice maker and bin at least every six months. This keeps your ice tasting fresh and prevents buildup.
Q: What if my ice maker stops making ice?
A: First, check if the ice maker is turned on. Then, make sure the water supply is on and the water filter isn’t clogged. If problems continue, you might need to call a repair person.
Q: Do I need a special water line for the ice maker?
A: Yes, your refrigerator will need to be connected to your home’s water supply with a dedicated line for the ice maker and water dispenser.
Q: How long do ice maker filters typically last?
A: Most water filters for ice makers last about six months. Some smart models will remind you when it’s time to change them.
Q: Can I turn off the ice maker if I don’t need it?
A: Most side-by-side refrigerators allow you to turn the ice maker off. This is helpful if you’re going on vacation or don’t use much ice.
Q: Will the ice maker affect the refrigerator’s temperature?
A: No, a properly functioning ice maker should not significantly affect the refrigerator’s temperature. It’s designed to work efficiently without impacting the cooling of your food.
Q: What is the difference between cubed and crushed ice?
A: Cubed ice is solid cubes, good for chilling drinks. Crushed ice is broken into small pieces, ideal for cocktails or filling water bottles.
Q: Are the ice makers noisy?
A: Some ice makers can make a bit of noise when they are making ice or dispensing it. However, newer models are often designed to be quieter.
Q: How much extra space does the ice maker take up?
A: The ice maker and storage bin take up some space in the freezer compartment. This can slightly reduce your overall freezer storage capacity.
Q: Is it worth getting a refrigerator with a built-in ice maker?
A: For most people, the convenience of having fresh ice on demand makes it well worth the investment. It saves time and hassle.
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 Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!