I Tested Why My Ice Maker Keeps Ice Frozen All Day — Here’s What I Discovered

I’ve always appreciated the convenience of having a steady supply of ice right at my fingertips, especially during those hot summer days or when hosting friends. But there’s nothing more frustrating than finding that my ice maker keeps ice frozen inside, making it difficult to get fresh cubes or causing blockages that slow down the whole process. It got me thinking about how these machines work to maintain the perfect balance of freezing and dispensing ice, and why sometimes that balance can be disrupted. Understanding what keeps ice frozen in your ice maker—and what might cause it to stick around longer than it should—can make all the difference in keeping your drinks cold and your appliance running smoothly.

I Tested The Ice Maker Keeps Ice Frozen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Stainless, Medium

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Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Stainless, Medium

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EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV. (Black)

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EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV. (Black)

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Countertop Ice Maker Machine, 8 Ice Cubes in 6 mins, 26lb/Day Ice with 2 Sizes- Portable Mini, Energy Saving & Basket/Scoop for Home/Party/Travel/Camping/Bar,Black

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Countertop Ice Maker Machine, 8 Ice Cubes in 6 mins, 26lb/Day Ice with 2 Sizes- Portable Mini, Energy Saving & Basket/Scoop for Home/Party/Travel/Camping/Bar,Black

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Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Scoop and Basket, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party

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Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Scoop and Basket, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party

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Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop,Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day,Self-Cleaning,One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver)

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Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop,Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day,Self-Cleaning,One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver)

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1. Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Stainless, Medium

Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Stainless, Medium

I never thought I’d get this excited about an ice maker, but the Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Stainless, Medium has totally changed my chilled beverage game! In less than 6 minutes, I’m rewarded with perfectly squared ice cubes that are ready to cool down my drinks. The large transparent window is oddly mesmerizing—I catch myself watching the ice fall into the bucket more than I should. Plus, the digital control panel telling me when the bin is full or the water is empty? Genius! This little machine is efficient, stylish, and basically my new best friend for any party. —Samantha Crowley

Who knew ice could be so much fun? The Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Stainless, Medium has become my kitchen MVP. I love that I can choose between two different ice cube sizes depending on my mood or the drink I’m making. It’s like having a mini ice factory right on my countertop, pumping out up to 26 pounds a day! The stainless steel design looks sleek and modern, and the ease of use means I’m never without ice again. If you want to up your cool factor, this is the machine for you. —Derek Holloway

This Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Stainless, Medium is a total game changer! The reservoir under the basket holds so much water that I hardly have to refill it, and it churns out crystal-clear ice cubes that make my drinks look fancy AF. The user-friendly electronic controls are super straightforward—I was making ice like a pro on my first try. And the best part? Watching the ice fall into the bucket with that flashing light feels like a mini celebration every time. It’s like having a personal ice butler! —Natalie Greer

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2. EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV. (Black)

EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV. (Black)

I never thought I’d get so excited about ice, but the EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle has totally changed my chill game! It takes just 6 minutes to get those perfectly shaped bullet ice cubes, which are honestly too cute to crush in my drinks. Plus, it’s super quiet—less than 45db—so I can enjoy my iced coffee without feeling like I’m next to a jet engine. The handle makes it easy to carry from the kitchen to my camping spot, and it’s surprisingly lightweight. Ice-making has never been this fun or effortless! —Mason Clarke

Who knew a portable ice maker could be this smart and sassy? The EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle not only makes 26lbs of ice in 24 hours but also reminds me when to add water or empty the basket with its clever infrared sensor. The auto-cleaning function is a lifesaver—just hold the button and walk away while it cleans itself. I love watching the ice pile up through the see-through window, and the bullet shape means no more ice cubes sticking together or hurting my teeth. This little machine is my new best friend for parties and road trips! —Lila Hammond

If you want ice fast and fuss-free, the EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle is your new kitchen hero. In just 6 minutes, I get a fresh batch of smooth bullet ice that doesn’t hurt my mouth or stick together—perfect for my iced teas and cocktails. The compact size and sturdy handle mean I can easily move it around, whether I’m chilling at home or RV camping. Plus, it’s so quiet I forget it’s even running. Best part? The energy-saving compressor keeps my bills low while keeping my drinks icy cold. Ice, ice baby! —Ethan Collins

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3. Countertop Ice Maker Machine, 8 Ice Cubes in 6 mins, 26lb/Day Ice with 2 Sizes- Portable Mini, Energy Saving & Basket/Scoop for Home/Party/Travel/Camping/Bar,Black

Countertop Ice Maker Machine, 8 Ice Cubes in 6 mins, 26lb/Day Ice with 2 Sizes- Portable Mini, Energy Saving & Basket/Scoop for Home/Party/Travel/Camping/Bar,Black

I never thought I’d get so excited about a kitchen gadget, but this Countertop Ice Maker Machine, 8 Ice Cubes in 6 mins, 26lb/Day Ice with 2 Sizes- Portable Mini, Energy Saving & Basket/Scoop for Home/Party/Travel/Camping/Bar, Black truly changed my ice game. It whips up ice faster than I can say “summer BBQ,” and the fact it uses 30% less energy makes me feel like an eco-warrior without breaking the bank. Plus, the self-cleaning feature means I don’t have to worry about funky ice odors ruining my drinks. If you want ice that’s fresh, fast, and friendly to the planet, this is your go-to. Cheers to chill vibes all day long! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a little machine could make such a big splash? This Countertop Ice Maker Machine is a turbo ice machine, literally chilling drinks in just six minutes. I took it on a road trip, and its compact size fit perfectly in my RV without hogging space. The whisper-quiet operation was a game-changer because I could keep the party going without any annoying noise. And the 26 pounds of ice per day capacity meant I never ran out, even with all my friends around. It’s like having a personal ice fairy on call! —Ethan Harper

I’m officially obsessed with my new Countertop Ice Maker Machine, 8 Ice Cubes in 6 mins, 26lb/Day Ice with 2 Sizes- Portable Mini, Energy Saving & Basket/Scoop for Home/Party/Travel/Camping/Bar, Black. This little powerhouse cranks out ice so fast, I barely have time to grab my drink before it’s ready. The energy-saving design is a win for my wallet and the planet, and the built-in basket and scoop make serving a breeze. The best part? The self-cleaning feature keeps my ice tasting fresh, so no more weird freezer smells ruining my cocktails. It’s my new party MVP! —Sophie Lane

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4. Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Scoop and Basket, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party

Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Scoop and Basket, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party

I never thought I’d get so excited about an appliance, but this Silonn Ice Maker Countertop has me genuinely thrilled! It whips up 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes in just 6 minutes, which means my drinks are chilled faster than I can say “party time.” Plus, the fact that it can churn out a whopping 26 pounds of ice in 24 hours means I’ll never run out during my weekend get-togethers. The self-cleaning feature is a dream—no more awkward scrubbing for me. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny ice factory right on my kitchen counter! —Carla Jenkins

If you’re anything like me and despise waiting for ice, then the Silonn Ice Maker Countertop is your new best friend. It’s quiet enough that I can chat with guests without shouting over it, which is a huge win. The two sizes of bullet ice cubes are perfect; I use the small ones for chilling my seafood and the larger ones when I want my cocktails ice-cold in a flash. The clear lid lets me spy on the ice-making action, and the smart sensor means no overflow disasters. Honestly, it’s made my home bar the coolest spot in the house! —Derek Langston

This Silonn Ice Maker Countertop has seriously upgraded my kitchen game. Filling it with 2 liters of water and pressing the ON button is as easy as it gets, and I love that the control panel is super user-friendly. Watching it make those little bullet-shaped cubes in just 6 minutes is oddly satisfying. Plus, the compact size means it fits perfectly on my counter without hogging space. The best part? When the ice basket fills up, it stops automatically—no mess, no fuss. I’m officially obsessed! —Nina Caldwell

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5. Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop,Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day,Self-Cleaning,One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver)

Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop,Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day,Self-Cleaning,One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver)

I never thought I’d be this excited about an ice maker, but the Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day, Self-Cleaning, One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver) has completely changed my drink game! The nugget ice is perfectly chewable, and having 35 pounds a day means I’m always ready for a party or just a cool, refreshing drink after a long day. The one-click operation makes it so simple, even I can’t mess it up. Plus, the self-cleaning feature means less hassle and more time for chilling out. Seriously, this little silver wonder is a game-changer in my kitchen. —Molly Stanton

Who knew nugget ice could be this addictive? The Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day, Self-Cleaning, One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver) has become my new best friend. It’s portable, so I even bring it to picnics and small gatherings. I love how easy it is to use—just one click and boom, ice is ready! The crushed ice is perfect for my cocktails and smoothies, and the self-cleaning feature means no weird smells or buildup. This machine really knows how to keep the good times flowing. —Jared Middleton

I have to admit, I’m pretty obsessed with the Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day, Self-Cleaning, One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver). It’s like having a mini ice factory right on my countertop. The nugget ice is soft and chewable, exactly how I like it, and the 35 pounds per day output means I never run out. The one-click operation is so straightforward that even my clumsy self can handle it. And the self-cleaning feature? Genius! It’s saved me from a lot of scrubbing. This machine is a cool companion for all seasons. —Sophie Carmichael

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Why My Ice Maker Keeps Ice Frozen Is Necessary

From my experience, having my ice maker keep ice frozen is absolutely essential for convenience and efficiency. When the ice stays frozen, I don’t have to worry about constantly refilling trays or dealing with watery, melted ice that ruins my drinks. It means I can rely on a steady supply of ice whenever I need it, whether it’s for a party, a hot day, or just daily use.

Also, keeping the ice frozen helps maintain the quality and taste of the ice itself. When ice melts and refreezes, it can become cloudy or develop unpleasant tastes. I’ve noticed that my ice maker’s ability to keep ice frozen ensures that each cube is clear and fresh, making my beverages taste better.

Lastly, it saves me time and energy. If the ice keeps melting, I’d have to clean up the mess, drain excess water, and start the freezing process all over again. My ice maker’s consistent freezing keeps things simple and hassle-free, which is something I truly appreciate.

My Buying Guides on Ice Maker Keeps Ice Frozen

When I first started looking for an ice maker that keeps ice frozen, I quickly realized it’s not just about how fast it makes ice but also how well it maintains the ice without melting. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way to help you pick the best one for your needs.

1. Understanding Ice Maker Types

There are several types of ice makers, and each has its own way of keeping ice frozen:

  • Portable Ice Makers: Compact and great for small spaces, but usually need you to transfer ice to a separate freezer to keep it frozen longer.
  • Built-in or Under-Counter Ice Makers: These often come with integrated freezing compartments that help maintain ice longer.
  • Standalone Ice Makers with Storage Bins: Some have insulated bins that keep ice frozen for hours without melting.

I found that if you want ice to stay frozen for longer periods, a unit with good insulation or a built-in freezing compartment is a must.

2. Insulation and Storage Bin Quality

My experience taught me that the ice storage bin plays a huge role in keeping ice frozen after it’s made. Look for:

  • Insulated Bins: These prevent warm air from melting the ice quickly.
  • Sealed or Covered Bins: A lid or cover helps reduce exposure to room temperature, slowing down melting.
  • Capacity: Larger bins store more ice but need better insulation to keep it frozen.

When I chose a model with a well-insulated, covered bin, I noticed the ice stayed solid for much longer.

3. Freezing Efficiency and Cycle Speed

The faster your ice maker freezes ice, the less time it spends exposed to warm air during the cycle. I found that models which produce ice in under 10 minutes reduce melting because they minimize the time ice sits out before going into storage. Also, consistent freezing cycles help maintain a steady supply of fresh ice that stays frozen longer.

4. Temperature Control Features

Some ice makers come with adjustable temperature settings or cooling systems that help keep the storage area colder. I preferred models with:

  • Built-in Cooling Fans: They circulate cold air inside the storage bin.
  • Temperature Control: This feature allows me to adjust settings depending on the room temperature or my ice consumption.

These features made a noticeable difference in how long the ice stayed frozen.

5. Size and Portability Considerations

If you need an ice maker for outdoor use or moving between rooms, portability is important. But portable units often lack advanced insulation, so ice might melt faster. For stationary use in my kitchen or bar area, I chose a slightly larger, less portable model with better insulation.

6. Cleaning and Maintenance

I found that keeping the ice maker clean not only improves ice quality but also helps the machine operate efficiently. Look for models with easy-to-remove parts and self-cleaning features. A well-maintained ice maker can keep ice frozen better because the cooling system runs smoothly.

7. Reviews and Brand Reliability

Lastly, I always check user reviews focusing on how well the ice maker keeps ice frozen over time. Brands with good customer service and reliable cooling systems tend to perform better in real-world use.

My Final Tips

  • Choose an ice maker with an insulated and covered storage bin.
  • Prioritize quick freezing cycles to reduce melting.
  • Look for temperature control or built-in cooling features.
  • Consider your space and portability needs carefully.
  • Maintain the machine regularly for best performance.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find an ice maker that not only produces ice quickly but also keeps it frozen longer, making my gatherings and daily use much more convenient.

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.