Are you thinking about buying a portable ice machine for your mini-bar, RV, or outdoor bar-b-ques? Or maybe your ice maker just doesn't cut it for the family. Whatever your reason may be, the tips below can save you someheadaches and possibly some money. Because no plumbing is required you can use these machines anywhere you have access to electricity (and water!). But with prices ranging from around $120.00 to over $300.00 you certainly want to be aware of some of the pros and cons before you invest.
Below I've listed 3 things to keep in mind.
1. Size: When shopping for a portable ice machine one of the first things you'll see listed under the 'specs' will be the dimensions ( for example: 17" L x 15"D x 17"H). But what you'll never see mentioned ( until you open an owner's manual) is that most manufacturers recommend a 6" clearance for each set of air vents. On most models there are 2 sets of vents - one on a side and another on the back. These air vents keep the compressor from overheating.
2. Power: The power pulled by a portable ice machines varies from as little as 130 watts up to 400 watts. Usually this is listed in the 'specs' along with the 'Size', but not always. If the power usage isn't listed it's best to assume that it's on the high side.
3. Features: Some offer a hose connection ( then you don't have to fill the reservoir manually), some recycle the water into more ice (otherwise drainage is required), and some come with timers, just to mention a few of the extras offered on portable ice machines. But how will you actually use yours? By not buying features you won't really use you can save a considerable amount of money.