If you’re like me, you know the struggle of dealing with ice cube trays. They’re messy, time-consuming, and never seem to produce enough ice, especially during those hot summer months.
That’s why I decided to upgrade to an ice maker, and after a lot of consideration, I went with the Kismile Ice Maker. Here’s my experience with it, including the pros and cons, how it compares to other brands, and some tips on maintenance.
My Experience of The Kismile Ice Maker
When I first unboxed the Kismile Ice Maker, I was pleasantly surprised by its compact design.
It’s small enough to fit on my kitchen counter without taking up too much space, yet it has the capacity to churn out a substantial amount of ice.
The machine’s sleek silver finish adds a touch of modernity to my kitchen, and it’s light enough that I can move it around if needed.
But let’s get real—what matters most is how it performs, right?
The Kismile promises to produce 9 ice cubes in just 6-8 minutes, and up to 26.5 pounds of ice per day. That’s quite a claim, so I was eager to put it to the test.
- Setting Up the Kismile Ice Maker
Setting up the Kismile Ice Maker was a breeze. All I had to do was plug it in, fill the water reservoir, and hit the power button. Within minutes, I had my first batch of ice.
One thing I appreciated right off the bat was the option to choose between small and large bullet-shaped ice cubes. Personally, I prefer the smaller cubes for my drinks, but the larger ones are great for keeping food cold.
The Pros of the Kismile Ice Maker
Let’s talk about what I love about this machine:
- Fast Ice Production
The Kismile Ice Maker truly delivers on its promise of quick ice production.
Within 8 minutes, I had my first batch of 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes.
It’s incredibly convenient, especially when you have guests over and need ice in a pinch.
- Compact and Portable
Its compact size makes it easy to place on any countertop, and if you’re someone who likes to entertain in different rooms or even outdoors, the Kismile’s portability is a huge plus. I’ve taken it out to the patio for BBQs, and it’s a hit every time.
- Quiet Operation
One of the things I was worried about was noise. I didn’t want a machine that would drown out conversations or disrupt the peace of my home. Fortunately, the Kismile Ice Maker runs quietly. Yes, you’ll hear the ice drop into the basket, but it’s not disruptive at all.
- Self-Cleaning Function
Cleaning appliances can be a chore, but the Kismile makes it easy with its self-cleaning function. Just hold down the power button for a few seconds, and it will start the cleaning cycle. This is a huge time-saver and ensures that the ice is always pure and safe to use.
- Healthy Ice Cubes
With its self-cleaning function and the ability to easily access the interior through a fully open top cover, the Kismile ensures that the ice you’re using is clean and healthy. This is a big deal for me, especially when using ice for drinks and food.
The Cons of the Kismile Ice Maker
Of course, no product is perfect. Here are a few things I think could be improved:
- Limited Ice Storage
The Kismile Ice Maker produces a good amount of ice, but it doesn’t store a lot at once. You’ll need to transfer the ice to your freezer if you want to stockpile it, as the machine will stop producing ice once the basket is full.
- Ice Melts Quickly
One thing I noticed is that the ice cubes tend to melt quickly if not transferred to a freezer. This isn’t a huge issue for immediate use, but if you’re making ice in advance, you’ll want to keep this in mind.
- The Drain Plug
The drain plug is a bit awkward to use. It’s located at the bottom of the machine, and I found it a little tricky to get all the water out without making a mess. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of.
Comparing Kismile Ice Maker To Other Brands
When I was shopping for an ice maker, I compared the Kismile to a few other popular brands. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Kismile Vs. GE Opal Nugget Ice Maker
The GE Opal is one of the top-rated nugget ice makers on the market. It produces that soft, chewable ice that many people love, but it comes with a hefty price tag.
While the Kismile doesn’t make nugget ice, it’s significantly more affordable and produces ice much faster. If you’re looking for quick ice production at a reasonable price, Kismile is the way to go. However, if you’re a nugget ice fanatic, you might be willing to splurge on the GE Opal.
- Kismile Vs. Igloo ICEB26HNSS
The Igloo ICEB26HNSS is another popular choice, known for its retro design and quiet operation. In terms of ice production, it’s similar to the Kismile, with both machines producing about 26 pounds of ice per day.
However, the Kismile’s self-cleaning function gives it an edge in my book. While the Igloo has a fun aesthetic, the practicality of easy cleaning makes the Kismile a better choice for me.
- Kismile Vs. NewAir AI-215SS
The NewAir AI-215SS is a powerhouse, capable of producing up to 50 pounds of ice per day. If you need a large amount of ice regularly, NewAir might be more suitable. However, it’s also much larger and more expensive than the Kismile.
For my needs—occasional use at home—the Kismile offers a perfect balance of size, price, and performance.
Tips For the Kismile Ice Maker
Taking care of your Kismile Ice Maker will ensure it lasts longer and continues to produce great ice. Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way:
- Regular Cleaning
Even with the self-cleaning function, it’s important to regularly clean your ice maker to prevent any buildup of minerals or mold. I like to run the self-cleaning cycle once a week and give the machine a thorough wipe-down every month.
- Use Filtered Water
Using filtered water not only improves the taste of the ice but also helps prevent mineral buildup inside the machine. If you don’t have a water filter, it’s worth considering.
- Empty the Ice Basket Frequently
Since the ice can melt if left in the basket, it’s a good idea to empty it frequently and store the ice in your freezer. This will also allow the machine to keep producing ice without interruptions.
- Check the Water Level
Make sure to keep an eye on the water level. The machine will alert you when it’s low, but it’s a good habit to check before starting a new batch of ice.
- Store in a Cool Place
If possible, keep the ice maker in a cool area of your kitchen. This will help it produce ice more efficiently and reduce the strain on the machine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Kismile is a reputable brand known for producing reliable and affordable home appliances. Their ice makers, in particular, are praised for their efficiency, ease of use, and compact design.
For commercial ice makers, brands like Scotsman, Manitowoc, and Hoshizaki are often considered the best due to their durability, high ice production rates, and consistent performance. Kismile, while excellent for home use, doesn’t cater to the commercial market.
Absolutely! If you regularly use ice at home, a countertop ice maker is a convenient and cost-effective solution. It eliminates the hassle of ice cube trays and ensures you always have fresh ice on hand. Plus, machines like the Kismile are compact, affordable, and easy to use.
Cleaning a Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is simple. Just hold down the power button for a few seconds to activate the self-cleaning function. For a more thorough clean, you can wipe down the interior with a mixture of vinegar and water, and then run a couple of cycles with clean water to rinse it out.
Conclusion: Why You Should Consider The Kismile Ice Maker?
After using the Kismile Ice Maker for several months, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic addition to my kitchen. It’s fast, efficient, and easy to use, with the added bonus of being portable and quiet.
While it’s not without its minor flaws—like the small ice basket and somewhat tricky drain plug—the pros far outweigh the cons.
If you’re in the market for a countertop ice maker that won’t break the bank but still delivers excellent performance, the Kismile is definitely worth considering. Whether you’re hosting a party, need ice for your daily drinks, or just want to avoid the hassle of ice trays, this little machine has you covered.
So, where should you buy it?
I recommend heading over to Amazon, where you can take advantage of their fast shipping and reliable customer service. Plus, you’ll often find it at a competitive price, sometimes with deals that make it an even better value.
In the end, the Kismile Ice Maker has made my life easier, and I’m sure it will do the same for you. Happy ice-making!