Why Are Nugget Ice Makers So Expensive?

Nugget ice makers use advanced technology to make chewable nugget ice. These ice makers continue to rise in popularity because they produce high-quality ice but come with a high price tag. 

This article will look at why they are costly. Also, we will give you cost-saving tips when buying a nugget ice maker. Read on!

Price Range of Nugget Ice Makers

Nugget ice makers come at different prices depending on the brand and model features. Here are the price ranges of nugget ice makers from the Kismile brand.

• Entry-level nugget ice makers- price ranges from $174
• Mid-Range Nugget Ice Makers- price range from $209
• High-End Nugget Ice Makers- price range from $279

Factors That Affect the Price of Nugget Ice Makers

Even though all nugget ice makers are expensive, some will cost you more than others. Here are factors that affect the price of nugget ice makers.

1. Design and Technology

All nugget ice makers are expensive because even the cheapest one costs hundreds of dollars. However, the most expensive models feature more sophisticated designs and ice production technology.

The $449 Z5820BN-BLACK uses powerful and low-noise technology for quick continuous ice-making. The ice maker can produce 44 lbs of ice in 24hrs. The technology also includes a self-cleaning function and easy-to-use smart controls.

2. Brand and Model

Nugget ice maker brands are priced differently depending on their popularity and how long they have been on the market.

Customers associate well-known brands with quality and are willing to pay whatever price. It is crucial to purchase your nugget ice makers from a reputable brand. However, comparing the features and applications of models from different brands is wise. You will be surprised to realize that some ice makers from new brands have better features than the expensive well-known brands.

Moreover, different models from the same brand come at different prices. This is because some models have additional features. Therefore, choose a model with the essential features if you operate on a budget.

3. Capacity and Output

The production capacity of nugget ice makers affects the price. Models that produce a lot of ice are more expensive than slow-output models. The decision between the two depends on your output needs.

For instance, if you make ice for commercial use or a large family, invest in high-capacity models.

On the other hand, a smaller low-output model is suitable for you if you make ice nuggets once in a while for yourself or a small family.

Durability and Build Quality

The materials used to construct nugget ice makers also affect the price. For instance, models made with stainless steel are more expensive.

Consider investing in such models because stainless steel is durable. You will feel the dent in your pocket, but you will not need to return to the market for another purchase soon. The expensive purchase will save you money in the long run.

Comparison with Other Types of Ice Makers

When it comes to choosing nugget ice makers and other types of ice makers, it boils down to how you plan to use the produced ice. Do you run a fast food business, are you a chef, or do you want to make ice for home use?

1. Cube Ice Makers

Cube ice makers produce big and hard ice cubes. Cube ice melts slower than nugget ice because they are compact, which makes them ideal for various applications, including:

• Suitable for bagging and dispensing
• Used to cool liquor and soft drinks because it does not dilute the taste
• Mixing drinks because of their hard texture
• Store processed foods in bars and restaurants

2. Flake ice makers

Flake ice makers produce ice that takes the form of shards. Flake ice is snow-like and very soft, and it melts quickly because it has a large surface area. It is mainly used in the following ways:

• Mold body parts after injuries because it is soft and flexible
• Fish markets and grocery stores for display and to delay decay
• Used in bars and events to display and keep liquor bottles in place

3. Gourmet Ice Makers

Gourmet ice makers produce pure and clear ice cubes. The difference between gourmet ice and regular cube ice is that it is very clear, without a sign of cloudiness. Like ice cubes, gourmet ice only melts slowly. They are therefore recommended for the following applications:

• Used in restaurants, cocktail lounges, and bars to cool drinks because they do not water them down
• Used to do mixology because they are hard
• Bagging

Deciding between nugget, cube, flake, and gourmet ice makers requires you to understand the applications of the ice types. The right ice maker improves the quality of your drinks at home. If you run a bar, restaurant, or fast food store, the correct type of ice maker could enhance your customer experience, which means more profits.

Benefits Of Nugget Ice Makers

Nugget ice makers make slow-melting, chewable nugget ice. Here are the benefits of using nugget ice makers:

1. Texture and Taste of Ice

Nugget ice cubes are soft and easy to chew because they are porous. They are the best type for people who love to chew ice in their drinks. Because of their porous nature, nugget ice cubes absorb the flavor of the drinks. Thus, you get the taste of your drink as you chew them.

2. Versatility of Use

Nugget ice cubes are versatile because they can be used at home, in the office, in convenience stores, and in bars and restaurants. The nugget ice produced can be used in carbonated drinks, blending, or making frozen drinks.

3. Convenience and Accessibility

Countertop or tabletop nugget ice makers are convenient because you can carry them around for outdoor use.

Additionally, they feature an LCD for easy operation. The luxury of accessing your ice maker wherever you are makes portable nugget ice makers stand out.

Cost-Saving Tips for Nugget Ice Makers

Nugget ice makers are priced at hundreds of dollars. This is very expensive compared to other types of ice makers. If you want to purchase a nugget ice maker for household or business use, here are some tips to help you save money.

1. Consider Used or Refurbished Models

Used or refurbished nugget ice makers are cheaper than brand-new ones. You can get a good deal from second-hand physical or online stores.

Ensure that the used appliance you take home is in good working condition so you do not waste more money.

For online purchases, wait to make the payment when you receive and test the ice maker.

2. Look for Sales and Discounts

Watch out for stores offering sales and discounts on their appliance to close a good deal. However, you might have to delay your purchase because most stores offer holiday sales.

Beware of stores that offer discounts on faulty appliances. The last thing you want is to start repairing the appliance from day one. Instead of buying a faulty one on offer, save up and purchase a brand-new one in good working condition.

3. Compare Brands and Models

Most people buy well-known appliance brands because they are believed to offer quality. However, you can get a nugget ice maker of the same quality from a less-known known brand.

Take your time to identify the essential features of the best nugget ice maker and compare the prices of different brands and models.

The good news is many ice maker brands are out there, and you can get what you want with your budget.

Warm Up

Nugget ice makers are costly. However, you can get a good deal by understanding the essential features and digging into the market for available options. If you are shopping for a nugget ice maker, check Kismile for affordable and high-quality models. Some models are on a 15% sale, so you want to take advantage of it.