Picture this: a hot summer day, a chilled drink in your hand, and that perfect, chewable nugget ice that makes every sip feel like a treat. If you’re an ice enthusiast like me, the Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker is about to become your kitchen’s MVP.
This sleek machine churns out restaurant-quality nugget ice right on your countertop, and trust me, it’s a game-changer for your daily coffee, cocktails, or just munching on ice.
If you want to elevate your drink game, you need this ice maker—here’s why I’m obsessed with it.
My Journey With The Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker
I’ve always been a bit of an ice snob.
There’s something about that soft, crunchy nugget ice you get at certain restaurants that just hits different.
So, when I stumbled across the Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker, I knew I had to give it a shot.
I ordered the EFIC255 model in navy blue, and when it arrived, I was giddy like a kid on Christmas morning.
Unboxing it was a breeze—its compact size (16.75”D x 11.75”W x 20.25”H) meant it slid perfectly onto my countertop without hogging space.
The stainless steel accents and sleek design gave my kitchen a touch of modern flair, and I couldn’t wait to fire it up.
Setting it up was as easy as filling the water reservoir, plugging it in, and pressing the “Ice” button. Within 15 minutes, I had my first batch of nugget ice, and let me tell you, it was love at first crunch.
The ice was soft, chewable, and had that perfect texture I’d been craving. I tossed some into my iced coffee, and it was like I’d transported myself to my favorite café.
Over the next week, I put this machine through its paces—hosting a small get-together, making daily smoothies, and yes, snacking on the ice straight from the bin.
It churned out up to 44 pounds of ice a day, which was more than enough for my needs, even when friends were over. The self-cleaning function was a lifesaver, making maintenance feel like less of a chore.
But it wasn’t all perfect—there were a few quirks I noticed, which I’ll get into later. For now, let’s just say this machine quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I’m not sure how I lived without it.
What Makes The Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker Special?
This isn’t just any ice maker—it’s a nugget ice maker, and that’s a big deal if you’re particular about your ice like I am.
Nugget ice, often called “Sonic ice” because of its popularity at certain fast-food chains, is soft, chewable, and absorbs drink flavors in a way that regular cubes just can’t.
The Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 delivers this coveted ice right to your countertop, and it does so with a blend of style and functionality. Its 44-pound daily output means you’re never short on ice, whether you’re hosting a party or just keeping your family’s drinks chilled.
The compact design fits neatly in most kitchens, and the intuitive touch controls make it so easy to use that even my tech-averse roommate figured it out in minutes.
Plus, the self-cleaning feature takes the hassle out of upkeep, which is a huge win for someone like me who’d rather spend time enjoying drinks than scrubbing appliances.
The Pros of The Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker
- Lightning-Fast Ice Production
One of the first things I noticed was how quickly this machine gets to work.
Within 10 to 15 minutes of turning it on, you’ve got a fresh batch of nugget ice ready to go.
I timed it during my first use, and sure enough, by the time I’d finished prepping my iced tea, the ice was waiting for me.
With a capacity of 44 pounds per day, it’s a powerhouse for households or small gatherings.
Whether you’re whipping up cocktails for a crowd or just need a steady supply for your daily water bottle, this ice maker keeps up without breaking a sweat.
- Perfect Nugget Ice Texture
The ice itself is the real star. It’s soft yet crunchy, with that satisfying chew that makes you want to munch on it straight from the bin (guilty as charged). Unlike hard cubes that can feel like you’re biting into a rock, this nugget ice is gentle on your teeth while still keeping your drinks ice-cold.
I’ve used it in everything from sodas to smoothies, and it elevates every sip. The ice also melts slowly, so your drinks stay chilled without getting watered down too quickly, which is a huge plus for me.
- Sleek and Compact Design
I can’t get over how good this thing looks on my counter. The Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 comes in stylish colors like navy, cream, and black, with stainless steel accents that give it a premium feel.
It’s not some clunky appliance that screams “kitchen gadget”—it’s sleek and modern, blending seamlessly with my other appliances. At just under 17 inches deep, it fits comfortably under my cabinets, which is a big deal in my small apartment kitchen.
Plus, at 19 pounds, it’s portable enough to move to the dining area for parties or even take on a camping trip if you’re feeling adventurous.
- User-Friendly Controls
The touch controls are a dream. There are just two main buttons—“Ice” and “Clean”—and clear indicator lights that let you know when the water’s low or the ice bin’s full. I’m not the most tech-savvy person, but I had this figured out in minutes.
The simplicity means you’re not fumbling with complicated settings, and the self-cleaning function is as easy as pressing a button and letting the machine do its thing. It’s perfect for busy folks who want great ice without a lot of fuss.
- Low Maintenance with Self-Cleaning
Speaking of cleaning, the self-cleaning feature is a lifesaver. I’ll dive into maintenance tips later, but the fact that this machine handles most of the cleaning itself is a huge win. You just add a bit of cleaning solution, press the “Clean” button, and let it run its cycle.
It’s so straightforward that I actually look forward to keeping it in top shape, which is not something I say about most appliances.
The Cons of The Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker
- Noticeable Noise During Operation
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: this ice maker isn’t exactly whisper-quiet.
When it’s churning out ice, it makes a humming or growling noise that’s noticeable, especially in a quiet kitchen.
I’d compare it to the sound of a refrigerator running, but there are moments when it gets a bit louder, almost like a low roar.
During a lively party, it blends into the background, but if you’re using it late at night while watching a movie, you might find it distracting.
It’s not a deal-breaker for me, but if you’re sensitive to noise, it’s something to keep in mind.
- Limited Ice Storage Capacity
While the machine pumps out ice like a champ, the storage bin only holds about 3 pounds at a time. This means you’ll need to transfer the ice to a freezer if you want to stockpile it for later.
I learned this the hard way during a barbecue when the bin filled up faster than I expected, and I had to scramble to empty it. It’s not a huge hassle, but if you’re hosting a big event, you’ll need to stay on top of moving the ice to keep production going.
- Durability Concerns
I’ve had my Frigidaire Gallery ice maker for a few months now, and it’s been smooth sailing, but I’ve read some reviews from other users that gave me pause. Some folks reported their machines breaking down after a few months, with issues like water leaks or the unit stopping altogether.
My experience has been positive so far, but these stories make me wonder about long-term reliability. I’d recommend grabbing an extended warranty if you’re planning to use it heavily, just to be safe.
- Manual Water Refilling
The lack of a direct water hookup means you’re refilling the reservoir manually, which can be a bit of a chore if you’re using the machine a lot. I don’t mind pouring water in every so often, but it’s something to consider if you want a more hands-off experience.
Draining the excess water is also a bit fiddly—you have to tilt the machine to empty it, which can feel awkward. It’s a small price to pay for the flexibility of not needing plumbing, but it’s not as seamless as some other models.
Tips For Keeping Your Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker In Top Shape
- Run the Self-Cleaning Cycle Regularly
The self-cleaning function is your best friend, and I can’t stress enough how easy it makes maintenance. Every couple of weeks, I mix a solution of water and a mild cleaner (like vinegar or the recommended cleaning solution) and pour it into the reservoir.
Then, I hit the “Clean” button and let the machine do its magic for about 15 minutes. This flushes out any buildup and keeps the ice tasting fresh. Trust me, you don’t want funky-tasting ice ruining your drinks, so stick to a regular cleaning schedule.
- Use Filtered or Distilled Water
I learned early on that the quality of water you use matters. Tap water can leave mineral deposits that clog the system over time, so I stick to filtered or distilled water. It not only keeps the machine running smoothly but also ensures the ice tastes clean and pure.
I keep a pitcher of filtered water handy just for the ice maker—it’s a small step that makes a big difference in performance and longevity.
- Empty and Dry the Reservoir When Not in Use
If you’re not using the ice maker for a while, like during a vacation, make sure to drain the reservoir completely. I made the mistake of leaving water in mine for a week, and it started to smell a bit stale.
Now, I always empty it and wipe down the interior with a dry cloth before storing it. This prevents mold or odors from developing and keeps the machine ready for action when you fire it up again.
- Check the Ice Bin and Scoop
The ice bin and scoop can get a bit grimy if you’re not careful, especially if you’re using the machine daily.
I give mine a quick wash with warm, soapy water every week or so, making sure to dry them thoroughly before putting them back. It’s a simple habit that keeps everything hygienic and ensures your ice stays pristine.
- Inspect for Leaks or Wear
Every month, I take a quick look at the machine for any signs of leaks or wear, especially around the reservoir and drainage area. A few users mentioned issues with leaks, so I’m proactive about checking for drips or unusual noises.
So far, I haven’t had any problems, but catching issues early can save you from bigger headaches down the road.
How The Frigidaire Gallery Stacks Up Against Other Brands?
- Frigidaire Gallery Vs. GE Profile Opal 2.0
When I put the Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 head-to-head with the GE Profile Opal 2.0, it’s like comparing a reliable sedan to a flashy sports car.
The Opal 2.0, priced around $500, boasts premium features like WiFi connectivity, letting you control it via an app—perfect if you want to start making ice before you walk in the door.
Its ice is slightly softer, which some folks prefer for chewing, and it produces up to 38 pounds daily, a bit less than the Frigidaire’s 44 pounds.
However, the Opal is bulkier (17.5”D x 13.4”W x 16.5”H), eating up more counter space, and I found it louder, with a more pronounced hum. The Frigidaire, at about $300, offers better value with its sleek design and higher output, making it my pick for most kitchens unless you’re set on smart features.
- Frigidaire Gallery Vs. COWSAR Nugget Ice Maker
The COWSAR Nugget Ice Maker, retailing around $230, is a budget-friendly contender that caught my eye.
It pumps out 34 pounds of ice daily, which is solid but falls short of the Frigidaire’s 44 pounds.
The ice texture is decent—chewy but slightly denser than the Frigidaire’s airy nuggets.
Size-wise, the COWSAR is compact (17.3”D x 11.3”W x 14.2”H), fitting well in small spaces, but its plastic-heavy build feels less durable.
It also has a self-cleaning function, though it’s not as seamless as the Frigidaire’s.
For me, the Frigidaire’s superior ice quality and polished look make it worth the extra cost, but the COWSAR is a great option if you’re pinching pennies.
- Frigidaire Gallery Vs. Kismile Nugget Ice Maker
The Kismile Nugget Ice Maker, priced around $250, is another compact option at 16.9”D x 11.2”W x 14.1”H, ideal for tight kitchens. It produces 35 pounds of ice per day, less than the Frigidaire, and the ice, while chewable, isn’t as soft or consistent in texture.
I noticed the Kismile runs quieter, which is a plus if noise bugs you, but its build quality feels a bit flimsy compared to the Frigidaire’s sturdy stainless steel accents. Both have self-cleaning features, but the Frigidaire’s controls are more intuitive.
If space and noise are your top priorities, the Kismile’s a contender, but I lean toward the Frigidaire for its reliability and ice quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nope, the Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker isn’t designed to keep ice frozen for long periods. The ice bin holds about 3 pounds of ice, but it’s not insulated like a freezer, so the ice will start to melt if you don’t use it or transfer it to a freezer. I usually scoop mine into a freezer-safe container if I want to save it for later. The machine automatically recycles melted water back into the reservoir to make more ice, which is handy for continuous production.
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 often takes the crown as the highest-rated nugget ice maker, thanks to its premium features like WiFi connectivity, softer ice texture, and solid build quality. That said, the Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 holds its own, especially for the price. I love its compact design and ease of use, and it’s a close contender for those who don’t need the extra tech. Ratings depend on what you prioritize—affordability, features, or ice quality—so the Frigidaire is still a top pick for many.
From my experience, the Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker starts producing ice in about 10 to 15 minutes after you turn it on. It’s super quick for a first batch, and once it’s going, it keeps churning out ice steadily to hit that 44-pound daily capacity. I’ve never had to wait long, even during a party when I needed ice fast. Just make sure the water reservoir is full, and you’re good to go.
Yes, it can be a bit loud. The Frigidaire Gallery makes a noticeable humming or growling sound when it’s working, especially during the ice-making cycle. It’s not deafening, but it’s louder than a typical refrigerator. In a busy kitchen or during a gathering, it’s not a big deal, but in a quiet setting, you’ll definitely notice it. I’ve gotten used to it, but if noise is a concern, you might want to place it away from your main living space.
Why The Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker Is A Must-Have?
After months of using the Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker, I’m still hooked. It’s transformed my daily drinks, made hosting a breeze, and added a touch of style to my kitchen.
Despite a few quirks like noise and limited storage, the fast production, perfect ice texture, and easy maintenance make it worth every penny. If you’re ready to ditch boring ice cubes and bring restaurant-quality nugget ice home, this machine is calling your name.
Trust me, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.