Small Luxuries: Chill at Home With a Specialty Ice Maker
Ice makers have come a long way from those plastic freezer trays. And a perfectly crafted ice cube in the right type of glass can elevate happy hour to a whole new level. Today's high-quality ice makers are perfect for people who love to entertain at home or for bartenders in the making; they make clear ice and store it, so you have plenty on hand for that holiday party, big game or ice pack after the big game.
Clear ice cubes are the result of many things, mainly using distilled or well-filtered water. An ice maker uses distilled water and also helps ensure that no air is trapped in the cube as it freezes. It layers the water gently and frequently until it freezes, creating a perfectly clear cube with no trapped air. I know, I know — who cares, right? But that's what little luxuries are all about — enjoying the small pleasures in life, even if it's just a matter of having a colder, crisper, more beautiful drink.
Most ice makers on the residential appliance market are vertical systems; the upper part contains the evaporator, and the bottom part stores the ice. Water is pumped and repeatedly layered over a chilled ice tray until it freezes into cubes. After a set amount of time, the path of the coolant reverses, setting off a slight heat wave and releasing the cubes from the tray into the bin.
Ice makers come in a variety of sizes, from 15 to 24 inches wide. Don't underestimate these little guys — some 15-inch-wide models can make up to 44 pounds of clear ice cubes! They also come in a variety of configurations: undercounter, built in, freestanding and countertop.
Whirlpool Icemaker, 15 inches - $1,439.10 Some undercounter models are flexible; they can either be built in or freestanding.
If you're a renter, go for a freestanding unit until you're able to purchase your dream home with a wet bar and pair it with refrigerator drawers and wine coolers.
Consider a unit that offers an automatic defrosting mode for the utmost convenience. Keep in mind that built-in ice makers require a water line and a drain for this option.
This little luxury can be costly. Built-in models range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on size and options. Most of the higher-end models come with the option of a paneled front to match the cabinetry. Most also come with a reversible door option for proper placement and location.
Portable Ice Maker - $299 But don't worry; there are options for the budget minded too. If your budget or space is limited, look for a countertop or portable model for as low as $179.
More: Small Luxuries: Wine Refrigerators Offer Handy Storage
