Can You Get Nugget Ice in a Refrigerator?

Hey there! As a home renovation expert who loves hosting gatherings with fun drinks, I totally get the appeal of nugget ice. Those small, soft, chewable cubes really take cocktails and lemonades to the next level!

You’ll be happy to know several advancements now make it possible to get this specialty ice from the comfort of your own kitchen. In this guide, I’ll overview exactly how to get crunchy nugget ice from your refrigerator.

What is Nugget Ice?

Before we dive in, let‘s make sure we‘re on the same page about what makes nugget ice so special. Nugget ice is a uniquely shaped, small, and soft cube that‘s meant to be chewed. It‘s also known as:

• Sonic ice – Named after the classic Drive-In chain Sonic, where it‘s served in drinks
• Pearl ice – Resembling little pearls or beads
• Chewblet ice – Due to its chewable texture

This type of ice has a smooth, wet texture almost like a snow cone. The cubes are small, soft, and thin around 3⁄8 to 1⁄2 an inch wide. It‘s made by freezing water droplets into small flakes, then compressing the flakes into crunchy little nuggets.

The benefits of nugget ice include:

• Chewable – Easy and fun to chew
• Melts slowly – Keeps drinks colder longer
• Absorbs flavors – Enhances tastes in cocktails and smoothies

And most importantly, it makes ordinary drinks extraordinary! Now let‘s look at how to make nugget ice magic happen at home.

Refrigerators with Built-In Nugget Ice Makers

The most convenient way to get nugget ice is a refrigerator with the ice maker built right in. Several brands now offer models with integrated ice makers specifically designed to produce small, chewable cubes.

Here are the top refrigerators with nugget ice production:

1. GE Profile Opel Refrigerator

• French door design
• Ice maker inside freezer makes pearl/nugget sized ice
• Produces up to 3 lbs of ice per day
• Streamlined look fits any kitchen

2. LG Craft Ice Refrigerator

• Craft Ice function makes uniquely shaped round cubes
• Sluggish melting ideal for drinks and cocktails
• Automatic icemaker pumps out over 5 lbs daily
• Sleek, modern style

3. Whirlpool French Door Refrigerator

• Fingerprint resistant stainless steel
• In-door clear ice maker produces 3 lbs daily
• Uniquely shaped cubes melt slowly
• Great for families who use lots of ice

4. Samsung Family Hub 4-Door Flex Refrigerator

• Futuristic 4-door design with massive 28 cu. ft. capacity
• Built-in ice maker churns out bite-sized, crunchy cubes
• Integrated Family Hub screen and app
• Fingerprint resistant finish

As you can see, brands like GE, LG, Whirlpool and Samsung all offer great options for refrigerators with built-in nugget ice production.

Key Features to Look For:

• Specifically mentioned as making chewable, pearl, or craft ice
• Ice maker located inside the freezer compartment
• Makes at least 3 lbs of ice per day
• Freezer capacity of at least 6 cubic ft

Using an integrated ice maker is the most convenient way to get nugget ice – just open the freezer door and it‘s ready anytime!

Standalone Nugget Ice Makers

Another route is to buy a standalone nugget ice maker that can reside inside your refrigerator. These specialized units are designed specifically to produce smaller, crunchier cubes.

Popular countertop models like the GE Opal and LG Pro can be easily converted to in-fridge ice makers. Here are great options to consider:

GE Opal Nugget Ice Maker

• Makes up to 24 lbs of nugget ice daily
• Compact size fits neatly in most refrigerators
• Side tank allows viewing ice level
• Portable, easy to set up

NutriChef Digital Ice Maker

• Makes up to 33 lbs of pearl ice per day
• Nine cube sizes available from small to large
• LCD display and electronic controls
• Perfect for wet bars, kitchens, boats, RVs

LG Pro Ice Maker

• Makes chewable round ice cubes
• Production up to 24 lbs a day
• Sleek stainless steel design
• Comes in standard or undercounter sizes

For the easiest setup, choose a model with front ventilation so it can sit flush against the refrigerator wall. And confirm it meets your family’s daily ice requirements. Undercounter units can produce 24+ lbs per day – enough for even busy households.

Advantages of Standalone Units

• Portability – Can be moved or used in multiple places
• Instant ice – Starts making cubes quickly
• Daily production – Up to 33 lbs depending on model
• Flexible installation – Can be placed freely inside fridge

So if you love nugget ice and already own a fridge, a standalone maker can be added to get crunchy cubes pronto.

Make Homemade Nugget Ice Without a Machine

Don’t have a fridge with a built-in ice maker or want to buy a unit just yet? Here’s how to make DIY nugget ice with simple kitchen tools:

What You‘ll Need:

• Ice cube trays or other small containers for freezing
• Freezer
• Resealable plastic bag(s)
• Dish towel
• Mallet or hammer

Step 1: Fill ice cube trays or other small containers 3⁄4 full of water. Place in the freezer until completely frozen, at least 2 to 4 hours.

Step 2: Remove trays from freezer. Turn them over and tap out the ice cubes into a folded dish towel. Wrap up the cubes tightly so they don’t go flying all over!

Step 3: Place the towel on a solid surface like a countertop or sturdy cutting board. Gently hit it with a mallet or hammer to break the cubes into smaller chunks.

Step 4: Unwrap the towel and place the crushed ice pieces into a resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out excess air and reseal the bag.

Step 5: Put the bag back in the freezer until ready to use. Voila – chunky, irregularly shaped homemade nugget ice!

The benefit of this method is that it doesn‘t require any special equipment. And you likely already have most of what you need at home. The drawback is that it takes more time and effort than an electric ice maker. But in a pinch, it can give pretty good results!

Nugget vs. Pebble Ice: Key Differences

Two terms you’ll hear a lot when ice cube shopping are nugget and pebble ice. But despite their similar names and appearances, there are some important differences between the two:

Nugget Ice	Pebble Ice
Small, chewable pieces	Slightly larger uniform chunks
Jagged, uneven shapes	Solid cube or ball shape
Soft, snow-like texture	Hard, dense texture
Made by compacting ice flakes	Made by extruding through a die
Melts slowly	Melts more quickly
Fun to chew in drinks	Can clog drink straws

As you can see, nugget ice is the winner when it comes to crafting delicious chewable frozen drinks and cocktails. Pebble ice doesn’t melt quite as slowly and lacks that crunchy, fun texture.

So if you have the choice, I suggest going with a machine or method that makes nugget ice. Your tastebuds will thank you!

Adding an Ice Maker Accessory to Your Current Fridge

If your refrigerator didn‘t come with a built-in ice maker, you may be able to add an aftermarket ice production system. Here are some options to explore:

• Refrigerator manufacturer ice maker kits – Companies like Frigidaire sell ice maker installation kits designed specifically for their appliances. They hook up to existing water lines and fittings.

• Third-party ice makers – Manufacturers like U-Line, Scotsman, and Manitowoc make undercounter nugget ice machines can be placed in fridges.

• Inline water filters – Adding an inline water filtration system helps remove impurities that can clog appliance ice makers.

Be sure to consult with your refrigerator manual or manufacturer to verify compatibility before purchasing any accessories. Proper installation is key to integrating an add-on ice maker safely and effectively.

Ice Cube Trays for Fridges Without Ice Makers

If an ice maker isn’t in the cards for you, quality ice cube trays are a budget-friendly alternative for keeping cubes stocked. Here are some of my top picks:

Large Silicone Trays – Flexible silicone makes removing cubes a breeze. Larger trays hold more ice.

Sphere Ice Molds – For fancy round “balls” of ice that melt slowly.

Ice Pop Molds – Create fun ice pops for kids (or kids at heart!).

Ice Stick Trays – Long, narrow cubes are great for chilling water bottles.

Quirky Molds – Shells, Lego bricks, dinosaurs – let your personality shine!

Having a couple different ice mold options ensures you can make cubes, blocks, and special shapes as needed. And don’t forget ice cube-filled freezer bags! They let you whip up large quantities of everyday ice.

FAQs About In-Fridge Ice Makers

You probably still have some questions about navigating in-fridge nugget ice production, so let’s go over some common frequently asked questions:

Do ice makers need a water line?

Yes, most ice makers will require connecting to your refrigerator’s or kitchen’s water supply line. This powers the continuous ice production capabilities.

Portable countertop units include reservoir tanks that need periodic refilling. But direct water line connection is best for fridges and undercounter models.

What about drainage? Where does water end up?

Nugget ice makers drain away melted water during the freezing process. Most machines have a gravity drain line that runs directly into a floor or sink drain pipe.

Always confirm the drainage setup meets manufacturer instructions before use. Proper drainage prevents overflow issues down the road.

How often do you need to clean the ice maker?

To keep your ice pure and tasty, experts recommend thoroughly cleaning your machine every 6 months. Follow all sanitizing guidelines provided in your unit’s manual.

More frequent spot cleanings may be needed if you notice off-tasting, oddly colored, or smelly ice. Be sure to also replace water filters per the manufacturer’s timeline.

How much nugget ice can my refrigerator produce?

Ice maker production depends on the appliance, but most integrated machines generate 2 to 6 pounds of nugget cubes per day.

Larger freezer capacities over 10 cubic ft. paired with chillers and other cooling tech typically allow for the highest daily ice output.

Can any new fridge have a built-in ice maker?

When shopping for a new refrigerator, be sure to check specifications for an “ice maker ready” or “includes ice maker” feature. This confirms the appliance is equipped to produce ice internally.

Freestanding fridges over 20 cubic ft. in size from brands like Samsung, LG, and GE will commonly include ice maker capabilities.

Can you purchase a used refrigerator with an ice maker?

Yes, you can certainly buy a previously owned refrigerator with an existing ice maker. Just be aware that if the unit is more than 5 years old, the ice maker may be due for repairs or replacement.

Carefully inspect the owner’s manual, service records, and have a technician inspect any used ice maker before purchase.

The Bottom Line on In-Fridge Nugget Ice

There you have it – everything you need to know to unlock the magic of nugget ice from your own refrigerator! Here are a few final tips:

• For ultimate convenience, choose a fridge with the ice maker built-in

• Standalone makers allow adding ice to existing appliances

• Make smaller quantities using DIY methods like ice cube trays

• Prioritize drainage, cleaning, and maintenance

• Add accessories and upgrades if your current machine lacks capabilities

With the right tools and equipment, you can enjoy soft, chewy specialty ice for next-level beverages any time. Hosting parties with nugget ice cocktails and lemonades is sure make you the hostess with the mostess!

Let me know if you have any other questions – I‘m happy to help with your foray into fabulous homemade frozen treats!