The ice dispensers are excellent self-serve machines that just not make ice, but also dispense the ice right from their unit. Ice dispensers are thought of as a very viable and safe option to produce ice, as ice is not stored in them for a long period and you ought to remove the ice formed from time to time. Some of these dispensers have two in one option as well to serve cold water and ice to match the needs of the user.
Ice dispensers find extensive applications in hospitals, hotels, lounge rooms, cafeterias, and restaurants, apart from being used at home. Let us discuss some of the best ice dispensers here along with their buying guide.
What Are The Best Ice Dispensers?
Check out: Best Ice Makers
What Accessories Should I Buy with the Ice Dispenser?
To make your life simple with your new ice dispenser machine, you may require the following accessories.
- Ice bin: They help in storing the ice securely without contact for a long time until you remove the ice for your use.
- Ice bin adapters: These adapters line the ice bin, and prevent the ice from contact with contaminants.
- Heat exchangers: They use cold water that drains from the ice machine to chill the potable water that enters your ice dispenser. This helps in energy conservation and cuts the utility bill cost as well.
- Ice bags: If you are using the dispenser in a hospital or using it to sell ice, then you will require ice bags, bag ties, etc, to pack them for efficient use and sales.
- Ice scoops and buckets: They help in removing the ice without hand contact and transporting it to the desired location.
What Can Affect the Quantity and Quality of Ice Dispensed from an Ice Dispenser?
Ice dispensers are excellent machines that can make a large volume of ice within a short period. Some of them are capable of producing even up to 100 pounds of ice in a day. But several factors can affect their output and the quality of the ice produced. By taking care of these factors, you will be able to produce good quality and quantity of ice consistently from your appliance.
1. The temperature of the air and ventilation
Air temperature is a serious affecting factor for alliances that have air-cooled dispensers. The quality of ventilation and air temperature can affect the ice output considerably. Poor ventilation can create ambient temperatures for the appliance and make it work harder. To ensure that your ice maker machine produces ice at an optimum level, follow the air temperature and ventilation requirements in the user manual for the product you choose to buy.
2. The temperature of the water
It is important to make sure that the portable water that is been used in the ice machine is at a proper temperature. If the water that you are using to make ice is very warm, then it becomes mandatory for the machine to work harder and take more time to chunk out ice. Especially if you are using a water-cooled ice machine, then you must maintain the water at an optimum temperature.
3. Cleaning and maintenance
Follow the cleaning recommendations by the manufacturer thoroughly, to ensure that the ice machine offers consistent output at all times. Also, the built-up of the internal components can come in the way of the water flow and obscure sensors. This eventually affects the ice production process and results in the formation of poor-quality ice at the end.
4. Quality of water
Always ensure that you feed in plain and soft water in the dispenser as hard water can have a lot of mineral deposits that can deposit on the water lines and other internal components of the ice dispenser. Also ensure that the water is also filtered, as it can eventually affect the efficiency of the ice machine.
Check out: Best Clear Ice Makers
Ice Dispensers FAQs
Will I require a water filter on my ice dispenser?
We recommend using a water filter, to prolong the life of the ice machine and to get edible and good-quality ice at all times
What is the size of the storage bin that I would require?
Choose a bin size that can hold slightly more than the quantum of ice that you will require in a day.
How should I clean my ice dispenser?
It is essential to clean the ice dispenser frequently, to get rid of the mineral deposits that can dampen its efficiency and performance. Use cleaners and sanitizers as recommended by your manufacturer for the process.
Best Ice Dispensers 2022
#1. Manitowoc CNF-0201A-L – Best Commercial Ice Dispenser
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.5 |
| Easy to clean | 9.1 |
| Performance | 9.4 |
| Build quality | 8.9 |
| Noise level | 8.8 |
| Flavor | 9.2 |
| Energy efficiency | 9.1 |
| Value for money | 9.3 |
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A simple and quick way of freezing ice is by making use of the Ice Maker machine. The Manitowoc introduces you to a unique ice maker along with the water dispenser device. The device works excellently equivalent to your cooling requirements. The machine is proficient in storing up to 235 lbs. of ice and water providing 107kg of ice daily.
The device is equipped with a countertop option that can fit anywhere. You can place the device in your office, house, restaurant, RV, etc. according to your convenience. Manitowoc is known for its cleaning technology. Therefore, the machine manages to clean itself without any human assistance and provide clean and clear water and ice for many years.
The machine is built with an air-cooler that gives chilled water all day. This appliance is much popular for its self-sustain condenser and nugget-style ice. These options go perfectly with all your evening parties. The LED blue light will provide you timely updates when the storage bin is full.
The cool display option will notify the functions and warns the user as well when the appliance runs out of water. Stay hydrated all day with some chilled glass of water to refresh your mood. Moreover, the dispenser improves the taste of water that makes your drink more exciting. The ice unit provides you ice nugget in no time without making your guest waiting.
What do we like about Manitowoc CNF-0201A-L?
- Bin’s larger drain size aids in minimizing ice spillage.
- Attractive design and simple to use ice dispenser
What do we don’t like about Manitowoc CNF-0201A-L?
- Require installation.
Check out: Best Commercial Ice Makers 2022
#2. COSTWAY 24509US-RE-CYPE – Ice Maker with Built-in Water Dispenser
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.1 |
| Easy to clean | 8.8 |
| Performance | 9.2 |
| Build quality | 8.7 |
| Noise level | 8.1 |
| Flavor | 9.3 |
| Energy efficiency | 9.1 |
| Value for money | 8.6 |
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Grab the opportunity to enjoy a double offer in 1 device by COSTWAY 2 in 1 countertop Ice maker in-built with water dispenser. The compact sleek design of the device will give a kick start to your parties, get-to-gathers. The machine is much more efficient you imagine. It can make ice in fair 6 minutes up to 36 lbs bullet shape ice dices in 24 hours. The device is faster when compared to other device and offer 9 flawless ice cubes in a cycle.
The device is portable with a countertop option that enhances the ambiance of your home, office, bars, etc. The machine consists of a dynamic compressor that is silent while operating. The benefit of acquiring a water dispenser makes the device more desirable. The dispenser provides you a glass of tasty water to make your drinks or juices a treat to your eyes.
The device can make ice cubes in different shapes. Select by pressing the button provided on the upper of the device. For convenience, set the timer delivered on the machine and receive the ice cube when you desire immediately. Updated notification with an easy display makes it an intelligent device. Now, you don’t require to think much before inviting the guest to your house.
What do we like about COSTWAY 24509US-RE-CYPE?
- Power-saving machine.
- LED panel control on the device.
What do we don’t like about COSTWAY 24509US-RE-CYPE?
- Ice cubes melt faster, therefore you need to consume them soon.
- Require installation.
Check out: Best Countertop Ice Makers 2022
#3. Costway 23573-CYPE – Water Dispenser with Built-in Ice Maker
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.1 |
| Easy to clean | 8.7 |
| Performance | 9.1 |
| Build quality | 8.7 |
| Noise level | 8.1 |
| Flavor | 8.6 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.7 |
| Value for money | 8.9 |
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This is an elegant, attractive, and classy water dispenser that looks great in your home, office, for your outdoor parties, restaurants, and bars. It is a very durable appliance with a compact ice basket that can hold up to 4 lbs. of ice at a time.
The appliance chunks out 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes within 6-14 minutes and is capable of making up to 27 lbs. of ice in a day. Its control panel helps you with different selections to start making hot water, ice-cold water, and ice. Its LED indicators help you to identify the function the machine is going through within a glance.
Its tri-temp push button faucet makes it easy for the user to withdraw water in three modes – hot, cold, and water at room temperature. Its hot water spout features a child safety lock so you can easily use it in your home without the fear of accidents. You can mount a barrel water can on top of the appliance to use water for its variant functionalities. As it loads water from the top, you can easily figure out if the unit is running out of water or not.
What do we like about Costway 23573-CYPE?
- Comprises of easy to clean, anti-rust drip tray
- Tri- temperature water cooler with child safety lock
- Smart water barrel seat that is easy to clean and detachable.
What do we don’t like about Costway 23573-CYPE?
- The appliance is very noisy.
- Ice melts too fast.
#4. Scotsman HID312A-1 – Best Water and Ice Dispenser
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.3 |
| Easy to clean | 8.8 |
| Performance | 9.3 |
| Build quality | 8.9 |
| Noise level | 8.5 |
| Flavor | 8.9 |
| Energy efficiency | 8.7 |
| Value for money | 9.1 |
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This is a high-performing ice dispenser that is capable of producing about 260 lbs. of ice in 24 hours. This ice maker also has a storage capacity of about 12 lbs. This appliance is known for its smart construction. It comprises a durable stainless steel evaporator and exterior panels. It also comprises greaseless bearings for less maintenance. It also features a large sink operation and dispensing area.
You will love the space maximizing design of this ice maker, it has a very small operational area, compared to the capacity of ice that it can produce in a day. Its body also features contouring sides with special designs for the best breathability and also features an external air filter.
This ice dispenser appliance comprises convenient front access. Its front panels are removable and offer easy access and service to all the internal components. It also features a removable storage bin for better maintenance and cleaning access.
What do we like about Scotsman HID312A-1?
- Features intuitive LED lights to reduce service time
- Unit specific QR codes help in tracing the error codes in the manual easily
- Sink and grill removable for ease of cleaning.
What do we don’t like about Scotsman HID312A-1?
- It requires access to water lines and water drains.
Check out: Best Scotsman Ice Makers 2022
#5. Frigidaire EFIC345-SS – Best Crushed Ice Dispenser
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.3 |
| Easy to clean | 8.9 |
| Performance | 9.3 |
| Build quality | 8.6 |
| Noise level | 8.6 |
| Flavor | 9.2 |
| Energy efficiency | 9.1 |
| Value for money | 9.3 |
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The Frigidaire countertop ice dispenser gives the convenience of large ice dispensers that we find in restaurants and double door refrigerators, in a simple countertop appliance. This appliance chunks out chewable ice and water as per the request of the user and is great for family kitchens, offices, and dorm rooms. It has two ports or ice dispensers and from one of the ports we get crushed ice nuggets and from the other port, we can yield ice bullets. And from the dispenser that sends nugget ice, there is an option to dispense water as well.
So here is how it works, you first collect nugget ice in a glass and switch the option to dispense water, to drink a glass of iced water instantly. So you have four dispensing options, to dispense nugget ice, to dispense bullet ice, to dispense ice and water, and to dispense only water.
This is perhaps an instant ice dispenser, that makes about 14 bullet-shaped ice cubes or a glass full of restaurant-quality nugget ice in less than 10 minutes. The ice that is formed in this appliance stays frozen for nearly 18 hours without melting, but this again depends on the ambient temperature. It also instantly converts into a water dispenser by the push of a button. Since the appliance hooks up with a water source, you can have a continuous supply of ice and water all through the day.
What do we like about Frigidaire EFIC345-SS?
- Capable of forming 33 pounds of ice in 24 hours.
- Forms two shapes of ice simultaneously
- Connect with water hook
- Stores ice up to 18 hours before melting
What do we don’t like about Frigidaire EFIC345-SS?
- Takes a bit of counter space
Check out: Best Frigidaire Ice Makers 2022
#6. Frigidaire EFIC2277 Water Dispenser with Ice Maker – Best Countertop Option
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.3 |
| Easy to clean | 8.8 |
| Performance | 9.1 |
| Build quality | 8.6 |
| Noise level | 8.6 |
| Flavor | 9 |
| Energy efficiency | 9.1 |
| Value for money | 9.1 |
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This is an exceptional water dispenser that is capable of making ice cubes in two different sizes. It has a large LCD and features a very compact size. This is a multifunctional water dispenser that comes with a built-in ice maker. This appliance not only dispenses water, but it also dispenses ice. In 24 hours, this ice maker is capable of making about 26 pounds of ice cubes. The ice manufacturing cycle can take anywhere between 6 to 12 minutes to chunk out a bowl full of ice.
This ice maker with dispenser is extremely easy to use and it comes with an LCD that allows us to change the size of the ice cubes from small to huge in just a click. You can also program the device with the help of its timer to start making ice and to stop it. The timer delay time is from 0.5 to 19.5 hours depending on the personal requirements. This ice dispenser features an automatic shutdown system that kicks in when the ice machine is full or when the water level is too low. This also prevents spillage and overheating in the ice dispenser.
This ice dispenser features a compact and small design and it is thus great for use in the office, lobby, kitchen and break rooms. Its countertop model fits in standard cabinets easily and it also features a control panel and a water spout for dispensing chilled water and ice cubes. There is also a water drip tray that prevents messes and when it is time to clean up, we can empty the ice maker instantly with the help of a drain plug.
What do we like about Frigidaire EFIC2277?
- The ice dispenser has a large water capacity of up to 32 oz. We have to add water from the side.
- When the ice bin is full, the appliance shuts down automatically.
- Dispenses both chilled water and ice on demand,
- LCD control panel handles the ice dispensing process
What do we don’t like about Frigidaire EFIC2277?
- We have to fill water manually in this appliance, it doesn’t connect with a water hose.
- There is no water filter in the dispenser. It is better to use filtered water to make hygienic ice.
#7. KBice FDFM1JA01 – Alternative Countertop Ice Dispenser
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.4 |
| Easy to clean | 8.9 |
| Performance | 9.2 |
| Build quality | 8.8 |
| Noise level | 8.5 |
| Flavor | 9.3 |
| Energy efficiency | 9.1 |
| Value for money | 9.2 |
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KBice countertop nugget ice maker is indeed a revolution in the ice-making industry, as it not just forms clear ice nuggets but also dispenses them directly in the glass. We don’t have to open the lid of the ice maker and bother to scoop out the ice cubes from the bin.
The appliance is capable of producing about 30 lbs. of nugget ice in a day and keeps forming ice as they are dispensed for use. This is perhaps the first-ever self-dispensing nugget ice maker that has been designed for personal use and is made of 100% BPA-free parts. The appliance features a self-cleaning function that helps in the smooth running of the appliance and in forming high-quality ice cubes.
Ice nuggets are dispensed from this appliance that has a small footprint. It can be easily accommodating on the coffee table of offices and restaurants and the kitchen countertop at home. It is important to use water that is free from hardness, or purified and distilled water in this appliance to help it function optimally. Water has to be manually added to this appliance and it will start dispensing out soft and crunchy nuggets within 30 minutes. If you are not removing the ice cubes, then they will melt and the water reverts to the reservoir.
The appliance doesn’t require constant water support or water hookup. We have to fill the reservoir with distilled or purified water and plug the appliance in any standard 120V wall outlet. The appliance also comes with a one-year standard warranty on the parts and warranty.
What do we like about KBice FDFM1JA01?
- Helps in munching crunchy ice without touching it
- Helps in tasting ice without freezing the fingers
- An elegant appliance that enhances the home ambiance
- Efficient on the environment and the utility bills
What do we don’t like about KBice FDFM1JA01?
- There is no scope of storing the ice
- The dispenser requires daily defrosting by pressing the cleaning button.
Check out: Best Sonic Ice Machines 2022: Nugget Ice Makers
Final Words
Ice dispensers are excellent machines to produce ice and dispense at the same time when it will be required by you to chill your drinks or serve your guests. There are several models of ice dispensers available and some of them offer multiple functions to make your life simpler.
Related:
My research for a quality countertop ice dispenser ends here. KBice ice dispenser certainly fits my requirements. Previously I was using Euhomy ice maker and it lasted for 2 years before going completely blank. It was good but I always wanted a dispenser to make things easy when I need quick ice, so I started researching, reading reviews, checking out ratings on various websites.
I also looked at some quality commercial ice dispensers but their ice dispensing capacities were a bit high compared to my needs, so in the end, I felt the KBice ice dispenser is the best ice dispenser for my ice requirements.
Finding ice dispensers are very difficult as many are not trustable whereas those which are good don’t come in your budget, I have been searching for a good countertop ice dispenser for months and since you have listed Frigidaire EFIC2277 as the best ice dispenser for the kitchen countertop, I would love to give it a try.