Imagine this: you’re hosting a party, and everyone wants a cold drink. You reach for ice, but… oops! The ice maker is empty, or worse, it’s broken. That’s a real bummer, right? Having a refrigerator with a built-in ice maker should make life easier, but choosing the perfect one can feel like a puzzle. There are so many brands, styles, and features to think about!
Are you tired of buying bags of ice or dealing with a slow, unreliable ice maker? You want that convenient, on-demand ice, but figuring out which refrigerator will actually deliver can be confusing. We get it. It’s a big purchase, and you want to get it right. You might be wondering about different types of ice, how much ice it makes, or if it will even fit in your kitchen.
Don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll feel much more confident about picking the best refrigerator with an ice maker for your home. We’ll break down the important things to look for, explain the different options, and help you avoid common mistakes. Get ready to say goodbye to ice shortages and hello to perfectly chilled drinks, every time.
Our Top 5 Refrigerators With Ice Maker Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Refrigerators With Ice Maker Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 46-62319 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer – Adjustable Shelving
Rating: 8.9/10
The Kenmore 46-62319 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer in sleek black is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially those needing smart storage solutions. It offers a generous 18.2 cu. ft. of space, fitting easily into a 30-inch footprint, which is ideal for smaller homes or apartments. You’ll find it a breeze to organize your groceries with its thoughtful design.
What We Like:
- The 18.2 cu. ft. capacity is spacious, yet the 30-inch width makes it compact enough for smaller kitchens.
- Adjustable full-width glass shelves let you customize the space for tall items like drink pitchers or even party trays.
- Gallon door storage is a big plus for keeping large drink containers handy, and the freezer bins help organize smaller frozen goods.
- Humidity-controlled crispers are excellent for keeping fruits and vegetables fresh longer, extending their lifespan.
- The ENERGY STAR certification means it’s energy-efficient, helping you save money on your electricity bills.
- Bright LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside, even in the back.
- An optional icemaker offers convenient access to ice whenever you need it.
What Could Be Improved:
- The icemaker is an optional add-on, meaning an extra purchase if you want it.
- While spacious internally, the standard-depth design means it might stick out a bit further than some counter-depth models.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a great balance of storage capacity and kitchen-friendly dimensions. It’s a practical choice for keeping your food fresh and your kitchen organized.
2. Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer with Full-Width Adjustable Glass Shelving
Rating: 8.5/10
The Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator/Freezer is a smart choice for busy families. It offers plenty of space for all your food. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. Plus, it’s ENERGY STAR certified, which means it saves energy and money.
What We Like:
- Lots of storage space: 20.4 cubic feet fits all your groceries.
- Adjustable shelves: You can move the glass shelves to fit tall items like drink pitchers or big cakes.
- Special drawers: Humidity-controlled crispers keep fruits and veggies fresh longer.
- Gallon door bins: They hold big milk jugs and other drinks easily.
- Convenient ice maker: It makes up to 3 pounds of ice a day, so you’re never without ice.
- Energy efficient: It’s ENERGY STAR certified to help lower your electric bill.
- Fingerprint resistant: The stainless steel stays clean and looks nice.
What Could Be Improved:
- The freezer bins are full-width, which might not be ideal for organizing many small frozen items.
- While it has a dairy drawer, a more specialized drawer for meats or deli items could be useful.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a great balance of features and value. It’s a reliable appliance that helps keep your food fresh and your kitchen looking stylish.
3. Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer with Full-Width Adjustable Glass Shelving
Rating: 8.6/10
The Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer in classic white is a solid choice for busy households. It provides ample space for all your groceries and keeps them fresh with smart storage features.
What We Like:
- Full-Size Capacity: With 20.4 cubic feet of space, this 33-inch refrigerator easily holds a week’s worth of food for a family.
- Adjustable Glass Shelves: You can move the full-width tempered glass shelves. This makes it simple to store tall items like drink pitchers or even large party platters.
- Smart Door and Freezer Storage: The refrigerator has three clear bins in the door that are perfect for gallon jugs of milk or juice. The freezer also includes two full-width bins to keep smaller frozen items organized.
- Fresh Produce Storage: Two humidity-controlled crispers help keep your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer. A covered dairy compartment keeps butter and spreads at the right temperature.
- Energy Efficient and Convenient: This refrigerator is ENERGY STAR certified, which means it uses less energy and saves you money on electricity bills. It also has a factory-installed ice maker that can produce up to 3 pounds of ice per day, so you’re always ready for a cold drink.
- Bright LED Lighting: Long-lasting LED lights inside the refrigerator make it easy to see everything, even in the back.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: This model is only available in white, which might not match everyone’s kitchen decor.
- No Smart Features: It lacks modern smart home connectivity or advanced temperature controls that some newer refrigerators offer.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers practical features and good storage for its size. It’s a reliable appliance that helps keep your food organized and fresh.
4. Kenmore 33 in. 20.4 cu. ft Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer with Full-Width Adjustable Glass Shelving
Rating: 8.9/10
The Kenmore 33-inch 20.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator/Freezer in sleek black is a fantastic option for families needing ample storage and smart organization. This appliance helps keep your food fresh and your kitchen running smoothly.
What We Like:
- Generous 20.4 cu. ft. capacity fits all your groceries.
- Adjustable full-width glass shelves let you customize space for big items like party platters.
- Gallon door bins and freezer bins offer convenient storage for drinks and small frozen goods.
- Humidity-controlled crispers keep fruits and veggies fresh longer.
- A dairy drawer keeps butter and spreads perfectly chilled.
- The built-in ice maker is ready with up to 3 lbs. of ice daily.
- ENERGY STAR certification means it’s energy-efficient and saves you money on electricity bills.
- Bright LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 33-inch width might be too large for some smaller kitchens.
- While it has good features, some might prefer more advanced smart technology.
This Kenmore refrigerator offers a solid balance of capacity, organization, and energy efficiency. It’s a reliable choice for keeping your food fresh and your kitchen well-equipped.
5. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 9.1/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer offers a smart and stylish way to keep your food fresh and your drinks cold. Its sleek fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. This fridge is designed to fit neatly into your kitchen space without sticking out, thanks to its counter-depth design. You’ll have plenty of room for all your groceries, making it ideal for families or anyone who loves to entertain.
What We Like:
- The 20 cu. ft. capacity is surprisingly spacious for a counter-depth model, fitting lots of food.
- Accela Chill quickly cools down new groceries, keeping everything fresh.
- The multi-flow air system ensures every shelf stays at the right temperature.
- Enjoy instant, filtered water and ice with the convenient dispenser.
- Spill-proof, edge-to-edge glass shelves are easy to clean and adjust for different-sized items.
- ENERGY STAR certification means it’s efficient and saves on electricity.
- Bright LED lights make it easy to see everything inside, so no food gets lost.
- The fingerprint-resistant finish stays looking clean and stylish.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers good storage, some larger families might find 20 cu. ft. a bit tight for bulk shopping.
- The counter-depth design, while space-saving, means the interior might feel narrower than a standard-depth fridge.
Overall, this Kenmore refrigerator is a fantastic option for those seeking a blend of style, efficiency, and practical features. It’s a great addition to any modern kitchen.
Your Guide to Refrigerators with Ice Makers
Why Choose a Refrigerator with an Ice Maker?
Having an ice maker in your refrigerator is a game-changer. No more buying bags of ice or struggling with ice cube trays! It’s a convenience that makes hosting parties easier and your everyday drinks colder. This guide will help you find the perfect refrigerator with an ice maker for your home.
Key Features to Look For
1. Ice Maker Type
There are a few main types of ice makers:
- Automatic Ice Makers: These are the most common. They connect to your home’s water line and make ice automatically.
- In-Door Ice Dispensers: These offer both ice and water right from the door. They are super convenient but can take up some freezer space.
- In-Freezer Ice Makers: These are usually found in the freezer compartment. They are good if you don’t need a water dispenser.
2. Ice Shape and Size
Some ice makers make crushed ice, while others make cubes or crescent-shaped ice. Think about what kind of ice you prefer for your drinks.
3. Capacity
Consider how much ice you usually need. If you entertain often, you’ll want a larger ice maker capacity. Most refrigerators make about 2-5 pounds of ice per day.
4. Energy Efficiency
Look for refrigerators with an Energy Star rating. This means they use less electricity, saving you money on your energy bills.
5. Storage Space
Make sure the refrigerator has enough space for your groceries, even with the ice maker taking up some room.
Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator can affect its durability and how it looks. Most refrigerators have stainless steel exteriors, which are strong and stylish. The interior shelves are often made of strong glass or sturdy plastic. The ice maker itself is usually made of durable plastic and metal parts.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better parts and have better quality control.
- Build Quality: Feel the doors and drawers. They should close smoothly and feel solid.
- Quiet Operation: A good refrigerator won’t make loud noises.
- Good Temperature Control: The fridge and freezer should keep your food at the right temperatures.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Cheap Plastic Parts: These can break easily.
- Noisy Motors: A loud ice maker can be annoying.
- Water Leaks: This is a big problem that can damage your floor.
- Poor Insulation: This makes the refrigerator work harder and use more energy.
User Experience and Use Cases
A refrigerator with an ice maker is great for busy families who want quick access to cold drinks. It’s also a lifesaver when you’re hosting a party and need lots of ice. If you love making smoothies or iced coffee, an ice maker makes it so much easier. For people who live in warm climates, having a constant supply of ice is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often do I need to clean the ice maker?
A: It’s a good idea to clean your ice maker every 4-6 months. This keeps the ice tasting fresh and prevents buildup.
Q: Can I turn off the ice maker if I don’t need it?
A: Yes, most refrigerators let you turn the ice maker off. This can save energy.
Q: Will an ice maker use a lot of electricity?
A: Modern ice makers are quite energy efficient. An Energy Star certified model will use even less power.
Q: What if the ice maker stops working?
A: First, check if it’s turned on and if the water supply is connected. If it still doesn’t work, you might need to call a repair person.
Q: How much freezer space does an ice maker take up?
A: This varies by model. In-door dispensers usually take up more space than in-freezer models.
Q: Can I install an ice maker myself?
A: If your refrigerator has the hookups, you might be able to. But it’s often best to have a professional do it to avoid leaks.
Q: What’s the difference between crushed ice and cube ice?
A: Crushed ice is broken into small pieces, while cube ice is solid blocks. Crushed ice melts faster and is good for cocktails. Cube ice melts slower and is better for drinks you want to keep cold longer.
Q: Does the ice maker affect the water taste?
A: If the ice maker and water filter are clean, it shouldn’t affect the taste. Always use a good water filter.
Q: Are refrigerators with ice makers more expensive?
A: Generally, yes, refrigerators with built-in ice makers tend to cost a bit more than those without.
Q: How long do ice makers last?
A: With proper care and cleaning, an ice maker can last for many years, often as long as the refrigerator itself.
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.
Hi, I’m Florence Disha, the creator behind HomesMend.com. With a passion for making every house a home, I share my personal experiences, tips, and expertise to help you transform your living spaces. Whether it’s practical advice, creative ideas, or tried-and-true solutions, my goal is to inspire and guide you in creating a home that feels just right. Let’s make every corner of your space truly yours!