Imagine this: you’re hosting a summer barbecue, and suddenly, you realize you’re running out of ice. Or maybe you’re trying to store a big harvest from your garden, and your freezer is already packed to the brim. It’s a common problem, and finding the perfect solution can feel overwhelming. That’s where an upright freezer with an ice maker comes in.
Choosing an upright freezer with an ice maker can be tricky. There are so many brands, sizes, and features to consider! You want one that keeps your food fresh, makes ice reliably, and fits perfectly in your kitchen. But sifting through all the choices can lead to confusion and frustration.
This blog post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a great upright freezer with an ice maker and guide you through the most important things to look for. You’ll learn how to pick the best one for your needs, saving you time and ensuring you don’t end up with a freezer that doesn’t quite measure up. Get ready to discover your perfect frozen food storage solution!
Our Top 5 Upright Freezer With Ice Maker Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Upright Freezer With Ice Maker Detailed Reviews
1. COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker with 22LBS Storage Bin
Rating: 8.8/10
The COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker is a fantastic addition for anyone who loves chilled drinks. This sleek, brushed stainless steel machine fits neatly under your counter and keeps your ice perfectly cold.
What We Like:
- It’s drainless, meaning no messy plumbing is needed for installation.
- It makes unique crescent-shaped ice cubes that melt slower, keeping your drinks colder for longer.
- The machine is easy to start with just a one-touch switch.
- You can choose which side the door opens by reversing it, and adjustable feet help it fit anywhere.
- It holds 22 pounds of ice, which is plenty for parties or busy households.
- The ice stays super cold (26.6-32°F) so it doesn’t melt too fast.
- It’s ETL approved, so you know it’s safe and reliable.
- COTLIN offers lifetime support for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for under-counter use, it can also be used as a freestanding unit, but its primary design is built-in.
- The crescent ice shape is unique, but some users might prefer traditional cube shapes.
This ice maker makes enjoying high-quality drinks at home or in a commercial setting simpler than ever. Its smart design and ease of use make it a top pick.
2. EdgeStar IB121 15 Inch Wide 12 Lbs. Capacity Built-In Ice Maker with 15 Lbs. Daily Ice Production – Stainless Steel
Rating: 8.7/10
The EdgeStar IB121 is a cool addition to any kitchen, offering a steady supply of ice. This built-in ice maker boasts a sleek stainless steel finish and fits neatly under your countertop. It’s designed for convenience and ease of use, making it a great choice for busy households.
What We Like:
- It makes a good amount of ice every day, about 15 pounds.
- The controls are simple and easy to understand.
- It makes nice crescent-shaped ice cubes.
- The 25-inch height is perfect for fitting under most counters and meets accessibility standards.
- You can switch the door to open from the left or right, which is super handy for different kitchen layouts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The ice bin capacity is 12 pounds, which might not be enough for very large gatherings.
- It requires a direct water line connection, which means installation might need a plumber.
If you need a reliable and convenient ice maker for your home, the EdgeStar IB121 is definitely worth considering. Its smart design and user-friendly features make it a practical choice for everyday ice needs.
3. 54″ W Commercial Reach-in Freezer
Rating: 8.5/10
Keep your food perfectly frozen with this spacious 54″ W Commercial Reach-in Freezer. It’s built tough for busy kitchens, offering 49 cubic feet of storage. The sleek stainless steel design looks great and is easy to clean. This freezer is ETL certified, meaning it meets high safety and sanitation standards, which is important for commercial kitchens.
What We Like:
- ETL certified for safety and sanitation, which many places require.
- Comes with a generous warranty: 3 years for all parts, 6 years for the compressor, and 1 year for labor.
- Made from durable stainless steel inside and out, so it can handle lots of use and is simple to wipe down.
- Has a powerful Embraco compressor and thick insulation to keep things super cold, from -8°F to 0°F.
- Runs quietly with minimal shaking, so it won’t be a distraction.
- Features an LED light to help you see and find items easily.
- Includes 6 adjustable shelves to help you organize everything just right.
- Has a safety door lock and lockable wheels for easy moving and security.
- The doors close automatically and stay open when you need them to.
- Auto-defrost means you don’t have to worry about ice buildup.
- Easy to set up, no complicated plumbing needed.
What Could Be Improved:
- The warranty does not cover equipment used in food trucks, trailers, boats, residential homes, islands, or for built-in decorations.
This freezer is a solid choice for keeping food at the perfect temperature. It offers great features and peace of mind with its warranty and certifications.
4. ORIKOOL 27″W Commercial Reach-In Upright Freezer – Low Noise & Energy Saving
Rating: 8.5/10
Introducing the ORIKOOL 27″W Commercial Reach-In Upright Freezer, designed to keep your frozen goods perfectly chilled while saving you money and keeping your workspace quiet. This freezer boasts a generous 23 cubic feet of storage, perfect for busy restaurants, cafes, or any business needing reliable frozen storage. Its sleek stainless steel design looks professional and is built to last.
What We Like:
- Super energy efficient, saving you up to 40% on electricity bills thanks to its CAREL digital thermostat and Cubigel compressor.
- Keeps food at a super steady temperature, with less than a 1°F change, ensuring your items stay frozen correctly.
- Runs very quietly, so it won’t disturb your customers or staff.
- Automatic defrost means you don’t have to worry about frost buildup.
- Spacious interior with 3 strong shelves, each holding up to 155lbs.
- Easy to clean inside with its smooth aluminum lining and rounded corners.
- Built tough with strong stainless steel and a secure lock to keep your items safe.
- Moves easily on four wheels, with two that lock in place.
- Comes with a great warranty: 5 years on the compressor and 2 years full coverage.
- 24/7 US-based customer support is available if you need help.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the door opens wide, it automatically closes below 90 degrees, which might be a slight adjustment for some users.
This ORIKOOL freezer offers excellent value with its advanced features and robust construction. It’s a smart investment for any business looking for dependable and efficient frozen storage.
5. EdgeStar IB250BL 15 Inch Wide 20 Lb. Built-in Ice Maker with 25 Lbs. Daily Ice Production – No Drain Required
Rating: 9.3/10
The EdgeStar IB250BL is a handy built-in ice maker. It makes 25 pounds of ice every day. It stores 20 pounds of ice. The ice is crescent-shaped. This means it melts slower. This ice maker also works as a freezer. It keeps your ice frozen solid. Best of all, it doesn’t need a drain line. This makes installation much easier. You can put it almost anywhere.
What We Like:
- Makes a good amount of ice each day (25 lbs).
- Stores a decent amount of ice (20 lbs).
- Crescent-shaped ice is nice and lasts longer.
- It also acts as a freezer, keeping ice solid.
- No drain line needed, which is a big plus for setup.
- The door can open from either the left or right side.
- Comes with an ice scoop, water line, and a removable ice bin.
What Could Be Improved:
- The daily ice production might be a bit low for very large gatherings.
- The ice storage capacity could be larger for some users.
This ice maker is a great addition to any home. It offers convenience and a steady supply of ice without complicated plumbing.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Upright Freezer with an Ice Maker
An upright freezer with an ice maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It keeps your food frozen and gives you ice whenever you need it. Let’s find the best one for you!
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an upright freezer with an ice maker, keep these important things in mind:
- Capacity: How much food do you need to store? Freezers come in different sizes. Think about how much space you have and how much you freeze. A bigger family needs a bigger freezer.
- Ice Maker Type: Some freezers have built-in ice makers. Others let you add one. Built-in ones are super convenient. They make ice automatically. Some make cubed ice, while others make crushed ice.
- Temperature Control: You want your freezer to be very cold to keep food safe. Look for a freezer that lets you easily set and check the temperature. Digital controls are great for this.
- Shelving and Baskets: Good shelving helps you organize your food. Adjustable shelves let you fit tall items. Baskets are useful for smaller things like frozen veggies or ice cream.
- Frost-Free Technology: This is a big one! Frost-free freezers automatically prevent ice from building up. This means you won’t have to defrost it yourself. It saves you time and effort.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for an Energy Star label. This means the freezer uses less electricity. It’s good for your wallet and the planet.
- Reversible Door: Some freezers let you change which way the door opens. This is helpful if you have a tight kitchen space.
Important Materials
The materials used in a freezer affect how well it works and how long it lasts.
- Interior: Most freezers have a durable plastic interior. This is easy to clean and resists odors. Some higher-end models might have stainless steel accents.
- Exterior: The outside is usually made of metal. White or black finishes are common. Stainless steel is a popular choice because it looks sleek and is resistant to fingerprints.
- Insulation: Good insulation is key to keeping the freezer cold. It uses foam to trap the cold air inside. Better insulation means the freezer works less and saves energy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a freezer better, while others can make it less good.
- Improves Quality:
- Quiet Operation: A freezer that runs quietly won’t disturb your home. Look for models with low decibel (dB) ratings.
- Good Lighting: Interior LED lights make it easy to see what’s inside, even in the back.
- Alarm System: A door alarm will beep if the door is left open. This helps prevent food from thawing.
- Reduces Quality:
- Frequent Frost Buildup: If a freezer isn’t frost-free, you’ll have to defrost it often. This is a chore.
- Uneven Cooling: Some freezers don’t keep a consistent temperature. This can lead to some food freezing harder than others.
- Noisy Operation: A loud freezer can be annoying.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your freezer matters. An upright freezer with an ice maker is great for many situations.
- For Families: Keep extra frozen meals, fruits, and vegetables on hand. The ice maker is perfect for drinks and parties.
- For Meal Preppers: Freeze portions of cooked meals for busy weeks. You’ll always have a healthy option ready.
- For Gardeners: Freeze extra produce from your garden. You can enjoy fresh flavors all year long.
- For Hunters and Fishermen: Store catches safely and keep them fresh for later.
- For Small Kitchens: An upright freezer takes up less floor space than a chest freezer. It’s easier to reach items too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much food can an upright freezer hold?
A: The amount of food depends on the freezer’s capacity, which is measured in cubic feet. Smaller units might hold around 5 cubic feet, while larger ones can hold 20 cubic feet or more.
Q: Is an automatic ice maker worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, an automatic ice maker is very convenient. It saves you the effort of making ice trays. You’ll always have plenty of ice for drinks.
Q: How often do I need to defrost a frost-free freezer?
A: You don’t need to defrost a frost-free freezer. The freezer does it for you automatically.
Q: Can I put my upright freezer in the garage?
A: Some upright freezers are designed for garage use. Check the owner’s manual. Extreme temperatures can affect how well they work.
Q: What is the best temperature for an upright freezer?
A: The best temperature for a freezer is 0°F (-18°C). This keeps food frozen solid and safe to eat.
Q: How much electricity does an upright freezer use?
A: Energy usage varies by model. Look for Energy Star certified freezers. They use less power.
Q: What if the ice maker stops working?
A: First, check if the water line is connected and the freezer is cold enough. If it still doesn’t work, consult your user manual or call customer support.
Q: Are upright freezers noisy?
A: Most modern upright freezers are designed to be quiet. Check the decibel (dB) rating if noise is a concern for you.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my upright freezer?
A: Unplug the freezer. Use a mild soap and water solution. Wipe down the shelves and walls. Dry everything thoroughly.
Q: Can I put my upright freezer next to my refrigerator?
A: Yes, you can. Make sure there is enough space around the freezer for air to circulate. This helps it run 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.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.