I know everyone would probably like a commericial ice machine, but I really do not have the space or the need for 150#+ a day.

I was poking around on the web and found personal or portable ice machines, designed to be put on boats or in RVs. They make ~30#s of ice a day. And they go for short money - like $200-$400.

Anyone have any experience with these? I know 30#s a day is plenty for me, I am just curious how they hold up. I am worried that for $200, occasional use might be fine, but constant use it might not hold up.

-IWK

I don't know but it doesn't sound like much $ to lay out. I would give it a go. I really like the ice the machines produce over a frozen milk jugs. Nothing like a cooler 1/2-3/4 filled with fresh ice chips when you start your day.

If you look around you can get a used comm version for next to nothing but it will use some serious electrical power. I think your right, one man does not need 150# each day (but is is nice to have on hand!). If you have a way to keep it you probably could maintain 150# in the hopper ready to go even though you only can produce 30#/day. Will it hold up?...if you get a couple years out of it I would say it is worth it! The problem with the small machines is they don't hold much so you have to empty it alot and you will never produce as much as you need.


I hope to work a deal with a friend who pick up a used comm ice maker.
$X/season...all I need type of thing. we'll see...

Hardly seems worth it when I can buy a 160 Qt igloo full of flake ice for $5.

MM,

I was thinking convience over price. while there is bound to be some cost savings with your own ice machine. I like the idea of filling the cooler, before I leave the house.

-IWK

I' rather spill ice all over the ice house loading dock than pick it up around the house! :D

don't waste you;re time with one of those rv-ice makers. if you need that much ice , used under counter flakers will run 200-300. same for a cuber, :pop: