Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker

Magic Chef Portable Countertop Ice Maker, Small Ice Maker for Kitchen or Home Bar, Tabletop Ice Maker for Parties, 27-Pound Capacity, Silver

• Compact Ice Maker: Our handy small ice-maker machine will become a staple in your kitchen, home bar, or dining room. With its 27-pound capacity, you’ll never run out of ice for your drinks.
  

Get the Inside Scoop on This Convenient Ice Machine

Looking for a convenient way to keep drinks icy cold wherever you go? A portable ice maker like the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker allows you to make ice on demand anytime, anywhere. With outstanding features, top-notch performance and superior value, the Magic Chef ice maker is a top choice for RVs, boats, camping trips and parties.

This comprehensive buying guide provides key details on the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker to help you determine if it’s the right ice machine for your needs. We’ll overview the features, specifications, reviews, prices and more so you can make an informed purchasing decision. Keep reading for the inside scoop on this handy ice maker!

Overview of the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker’s Benefits and Features

The Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker delivers excellent ice making performance combined with convenient portability. Here’s an overview of the key benefits this unit provides:

• On-demand ice production – Makes 9 ice cubes in as little as 7 minutes so you can get ice whenever you need it.
• 2 selectable ice cube sizes – Choose from small or large cube sizes depending on your preferences.
• Sleek and compact design – Measuring just 14.5 x 11.7 x 13.5 inches, it can fit easily in RVs, boats, kitchens, bars and more.
• Lightweight and portable – At just 21 pounds, you can bring ice making capabilities anywhere.
• User-friendly operation – Just add water and press a button for automated ice making.
• Durable construction – The durable plastic housing is made to last.
• Recycling drained water – Melted ice water is reused for the next batch of ice to conserve water.
• Ice basket – The removable basket stores up to 1.7 pounds of ice cubes.
• Low energy use – Uses 120 watts of power, less than many comparable models.

With outstanding ice making performance packed into a compact and portable design, the Magic Chef ice maker can keep drinks chilled in any location. Next, let’s see how it compares to other top ice maker brands.

How the Magic Chef Ice Maker Compares to Other Brands

The Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker competes closely with other top-rated portable ice makers from brands like hOmeLabs, Costway and Frigidaire. Here’s an overview of how the Magic Chef model compares:

• Ice production – The Magic Chef machine produces 9 small or large bullets in around 7-15 minutes, which is average and similar to other brands.
• Cube sizes – The Magic Chef model offers a choice of two ice cube sizes, while some brands like Frigidaire offer three sizes.
• Portability – Weighing 21 pounds, the Magic Chef unit is one of the lightest and most portable models available.
• Capacity – It can hold 1.7 pounds of ice in the basket, which is more than many comparably sized units.
• Speed – It makes ice in 7-15 minutes, which is fast but a little slower than the quickest models like the hOmeLabs ice maker.
• Special features – The Magic Chef lacks extra features like self-cleaning, while some units from Costway and other brands include it.
• Price – The Magic Chef ice maker is very affordably priced between $120-$140 in most stores.

While it lacks some bonus features other brands offer, the Magic Chef ice maker compares very favorably with its fast ice production, portable design and affordable pricing.

Where to Buy the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker

The Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker can be purchased from several major retailers online and in stores. Here are some of the best places to buy this ice maker:

• Amazon – Amazon offers free shipping on the Magic Chef ice maker with prices averaging $120-$140. Beware of third-party sellers with inflated prices.
• Walmart – The Magic Chef ice maker is stocked in most Walmart stores and on Walmart.com, often for under $140 with free site-to-store shipping.
• Home Depot – Home Depot sells this unit online and in select stores both in-store and online. Expect pricing between $130-$150.
• Wayfair – Known for affordable prices, Wayfair stocks the Magic Chef unit with free shipping on orders over $49.
• Target – Target has limited availability of the Magic Chef ice maker online and in some stores, usually for $140-$160.
• Lowe’s – Although limited in availability, Lowe’s may carry this unit in select stores and online starting around $140.

For the best selection and prices, check Amazon and Walmart first when buying the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker.

Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker Pricing and Budget

The Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker is very affordably priced between $120-$160 at most major retailers. Here’s an overview of pricing:

• Average Price – The normal retail price is around $140.
• Sale Price – It periodically goes on sale for $120-$130 at select stores.
• High Price – Inflated third-party seller prices can reach $160+.
• Used Price – You may find used units for under $100 on resale sites.
• Refurbished Price – Refurbished units can cost $110-$120 with limited warranty.

For the best deal, try to buy the Magic Chef ice maker for around $120-$140 new when it goes on sale. Used, refurbished or inflated third-party prices are less ideal. This very affordable price point makes the Magic Chef a budget-friendly choice versus pricier models.

Reviews of the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker

Overall reviews of the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker are very positive, with most users giving it between 4 to 5 stars out of 5. Here’s an overview of common feedback:

• Easy to use – Many reviews praise the simple operation with automatic ice making.
• Quiet operation – Numerous owners mention how quietly it runs.
• Fast ice production – Makes ice in as little as 7 minutes, which users love.
• Portable and compact – A common compliment is the lightweight and compact design.
• Affordable price – Most agree it’s a great value ice maker for the price.
• Occasional faulty units – A small percentage receive duds with immediate failure.
• Small ice basket – Some users wish the ice storage basket was bigger.

Overall, if you get a properly functioning unit, the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker earns outstanding reviews for fast ice production, quiet operation and convenient portability at an affordable price point.

Step-by-Step Installation of the Magic Chef Ice Maker

Installing the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker is quick and simple with no complex instructions required. Just follow these steps:

1. Unbox the ice maker and remove all packaging materials.
2. Clean the interior with a soft cloth before first use.
3. Place the ice maker upright on a flat, stable surface with at least 5 inches clearance on all sides.
4. Remove the ice basket.
5. Pour filtered water into the water reservoir until it reaches the “Max Fill” line.
6. Replace the ice basket.
7. Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
8. Press the power button to turn on the unit.
9. Press the “Cube Size” button to choose small or large cubes.
10. Press the power button again and the machine will start making ice within minutes!
11. Allow the bucket to fill with ice, then use as needed.
12. Unplug the unit and empty water from the reservoir if storing or transporting.

With this easy process, anyone can start producing ice in minutes with the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker. It’s a virtually effortless setup!

Ice Maker Dimensions and Storage Footprint

The Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker has compact dimensions that allow it to fit into tight spaces:

• Width: 11.7 inches
• Depth: 13.5 inches
• Height: 14.5 inches
• Weight: 21 pounds

With this petite footprint, the Magic Chef ice maker can fit easily into an RV kitchen, boat cabin, camping trailer, wet bar, kitchen counter and many other spaces where ice needs to be made on the go.

Just be sure to allow at least 5 inches of clearance on all sides for proper air circulation. Also make sure it is positioned away from ovens and other heat sources during use. With a little space to breathe, the Magic Chef ice maker can produce icy drinks anywhere.

Energy Efficiency and Usage Costs

One great perk of the Magic Chef ice maker is that it is energy efficient, especially compared to full-size built-in ice machines. Here are key details on its energy use:

• Wattage – Uses just 120 watts while operating.
• Energy Star – It is Energy Star certified for efficiency.
• Electricity Cost – Based on the national average of $0.14/kWh, it costs about $0.02 per hour to run.
• Water Usage – Recycles melted ice water so minimal water is wasted.

Thanks to its low energy requirements and water-saving recycling, the Magic Chef ice maker is an energy efficient appliance. Using it whenever you need freshly made ice can cost as little as a few pennies per day in electricity bills. The savings add up versus bagged ice from the store.

Warranty Details on the Magic Chef Ice Maker

Magic Chef provides a 1-year limited warranty on the Portable Ice Maker that covers defects in workmanship and materials. Here are the key warranty details:

• Length of Coverage: 1 year from date of purchase.
• What’s Covered: All defects in materials or workmanship.
• What’s Not Covered: Regular wear/tear, improper use, external causes.
• Warranty Service: Repair or replacement of unit or parts.
• How to Get Service: Call Magic Chef customer service to start a claim.

With a standard 1-year warranty, the Magic Chef ice maker provides protection in case you get a faulty machine. Make sure to register the warranty with proof of purchase to ensure coverage.

Maintaining the Magic Chef Ice Maker

Like any appliance, basic maintenance is required to keep the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker working its best. Here are top tips for upkeep:

• Clean the ice bucket, tray and interior regularly using a mild soap and soft cloth. Never submerge in water.
• Occasionally sanitize the unit by flushing with a sanitizing solution and rinsing thoroughly. This prevents bacteria buildup.
• Descale the unit every 6-12 months using white vinegar. This removes mineral deposits from water.
• Always drain the water reservoir and dry thoroughly if storing the unit unused for long periods.
• Keep the unit protected from weather and outdoor elements which can damage components.
• Check and replace the air filter periodically to maintain proper airflow.
• Brush off any frost buildup regularly to maintain efficiency.

With regular cleaning, sanitizing, descaling and proper care, your Magic Chef ice maker will produce ice like new for many years. Be sure to refer to the manual for the full maintenance recommendations.

Discounts and Best Price for the Magic Chef Ice Maker

The Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker already has a very affordable retail price under $150. But you can often save even more by watching for discounts:

• Seasonal Sales – Look for sale pricing around $120 during peak summer months or leading up to summer.
• Holiday Sales – Holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day often bring ice maker sales.
• Outlet Deals – Check for open-box or refurbished units at discount retailer outlets.
• Promo Codes – Retailers like Amazon offer promo codes sporadically to save 10% or more.
• Used Units – Consider a used ice maker from classified ads or resale sites for under $100.

With the right sale or promo code, you can grab the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker for as little as $120-130 new. This makes it an even more budget-friendly way to have fresh ice anywhere on demand.

Ice Production Capacity and Yield

A key specification for any portable ice maker is its actual ice yielding capacity. Here’s an overview for the Magic Chef model:

• Ice Cubes per Cycle – Produces 9 small or large bullets per cycle.
• Ice Produced per Hour – Up to 27 small or 18 large cubes per hour.
• Hourly Yield – Up to 1.1 pounds per hour of small cubes or 1.5 pounds per hour of large cubes.
• Ice Basket Capacity – 1.7 pounds of stored ice cubes maximum.

So at maximum output, the Magic Chef can make up to 27 small ice cubes totaling 1.1 pounds or 18 large cubes totaling 1.5 pounds per hour. That’s suitable for keeping drinks cold for small parties, campers, office use and more. Larger capacity ice makers are available for heavier demands.

Cleaning the Ice Maker to Prevent Mineral Buildup

Cleaning the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker is essential to prevent mineral scale buildup from hard water, as well as to inhibit bacteria growth. Here are cleaning tips:

• Every 1-3 months, fill the reservoir with a cleaning solution of 2 cups white vinegar + 1 cup warm water. Allow to sit for 30 minutes, then drain.
• Scrub the ice basket, tray and interior with a soft brush and mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
• For sanitizing, fill with 2 tbsp bleach + 1 quart water solution. Let sit 20 minutes then drain and rinse.
• Always completely dry the interior after cleaning.
• More frequent cleaning may be needed depending on your water hardness.

With regular cleaning and descaling, the Magic Chef will produce cleaner, bacteria-free ice for better taste and health. Check the owner’s manual for full cleaning procedures.

Speed Of Ice Production with the Magic Chef

One of the top selling points of the Magic Chef ice maker is how quickly it can produce freshly made ice – typically between 7 to 15 minutes per 9-cube cycle, depending on selected cube size.

Here are more details on cycle times:

• Small cube cycle: 7-9 minutes
• Large cube cycle: 12-15 minutes

So you can get 9 small bullets made in just 7 minutes. The first batch takes the longest, while subsequent cycles are faster since the cold temperature is already established inside the machine.

Magic Chef states the unit can make up to 27 small or 18 large cubes per hour, and real-world use aligns with these production speed claims. It’s much faster than icemaker freezers or hitting the store whenever you need a quick batch of ice.

Portability and Using Outdoors When Camping

Weighing just 21 pounds, the Magic Chef ice maker is lightweight and portable enough to transport for outdoor use. Here are tips for taking it camping:

• Ensure your camper or power hookup has a 110V grounded outlet the ice maker can plug into.
• Bring bottled drinking water to fill the reservoir, not potentially unsafe natural water sources.
• Keep the unit shaded beneath an awning or canopy during use in hot sun.
• Limit vibration by placing on a flat, stable surface when vehicles are moving.
• Clean it thoroughly after a dusty campsite stay.

While not weatherproof, with proper care the Magic Chef can handle occasional outdoor use for camping weekends or tailgating parties when electricity is available. Just take steps to keep it clean, shaded and stable.

Noise Level When Operating

Compared to bulky built-in ice makers or noisy portable units, the Magic Chef ice maker pleasantly surprises users with its quiet operation.

The noise level stays at a low hum around 35 to 45 decibels while running. That’s comparable to a soft radio or quiet conversation.

This quiet performance makes the Magic Chef ice maker ideal for:

• RVs – Won’t disturb naptime or conversations.
• Office settings – Provides ice with minimal distraction.
• Bedrooms – Allows ice on demand overnight.

While not totally silent, the low hum of the Magic Chef is discreet enough for any setting where a basic ice maker would be out of place or disruptive.

Available Color Options

The Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker comes in two color choices to suit different preferences and settings:

• Black – The most popular color option, black has a modern, sleek look that fits any décor.
• Stainless Steel – For a more eye-catching shine, the stainless model has a commercial ice maker aesthetic.

Both colors feature durable plastic housing that resists fingerprints, smudges and scratches. So the choice comes down purely to visual appeal in your space.

The black colorway blends in discreetly while the stainless steel look makes more of a bold style statement. Choose the color that fits your personality or complements your existing appliances and décor.

Durability and Quality of Construction

The Magic Chef ice maker features durable plastic construction that can withstand years of regular use. Here are the key durability factors:

• Plastic housing – Made of weather/shock-resistant plastic able to handle some bumps.
• Metal interior – Internal ice making parts are stainless steel and rust-resistant.
• Primarily mechanical – The simple mechanical operation reduces failure points.
• Removable parts – Components like the basket and tray can be replaced if damaged.
• Air filter – The filter protects internal workings from dust/debris.
• No compressor – Lacks a compressor that can commonly fail in full-size ice makers.

While not as rugged as commercial machines, the Magic Chef has decent durability for a small portable unit. Just avoid excessive impacts and operate it properly indoors. With care, it should provide many years of reliable service.

Using the Magic Chef Ice Maker Outdoors

While transportable, the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker is designed for indoor use in homes or campers, not extended outdoor operation. Here are the limitations:

• Not weatherproof – Exposure to rain or moisture can damage the plastic housing and electrical components.
• Needs shade – Heat from direct sunlight can affect performance and melt ice quickly.
• Not stabilized – Wind or vibration can cause shifting that damages the unit.
• Electricity required – It must be plugged into a GFCI-protected grounded outlet.

For outdoor events, the Magic Chef is best placed right inside your patio door with just the ice bucket transported outside. Look for purpose-built outdoor ice makers if you need to produce ice extensively in an uncovered area off-grid. The Magic Chef performs best indoors or in a camper.

Availability of User Manuals and Documentation

Magic Chef provides manuals with key documentation that all owners should have for handy reference:

• Included Manual – A printed basic manual with setup, instructions and care is included.
• Online Manual – A PDF of the manual can be downloaded from the Magic Chef website for convenience.
• Quick Start Guide – This gives simplified 1-page operating instructions.
• Registration Card – Contains warranty registration details that should be completed.
• Instructional Video – The Magic Chef YouTube channel has a video showing operation.

Between the printed, online and video instructional materials, Magic Chef empowers owners to properly operate and maintain their ice makers. Keep the manual handy and watch the video for the easiest experience.

Conclusion

From fast ice production to convenient portability, the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker provides outstanding performance anywhere you need freshly made ice. Compact yet capable, it offers an affordable way to keep drinks icy cold at home or on the go. Just be sure to clean it regularly and handle it with care indoors for the best results. Follow this buying guide when making your decision and the Magic Chef ice maker won’t disappoint!