Are you tired of watery drinks and hard, clunky ice cubes that just don't hit the spot? The Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 44lbs per Day, Auto Self Cleaning, 2.0 Gen, Navy, promises to bring the chewable, restaurant-quality nugget ice experience right to your kitchen countertop. This award-winning machine, a CES 2023 Innovation Awards Honoree, has captured the attention of many a beverage enthusiast. But does it live up to the hype? Let's take a deep dive into the features, performance, and user experiences to help you decide if this is the perfect appliance for your home.
Product Scorecard
Build Quality: 6/10
The machine is described as a heavy, well-built unit, but several customer reviews report significant durability issues and a loud compressor over time.
Value for Money: 5/10
While the initial price is not the most expensive among its competitors, the frequent reports of defects and expensive shipping for warranty claims suggest a poor long-term value.
Ease of Use: 8/10
The touch control panel, self-cleaning function, and a no-water-hookup design make it very easy to operate, despite some users finding the water tank difficult to remove.
Performance: 7/10
It produces ice quickly and in large quantities, with a unique texture, but some users have noted a decline in ice quality and consistency over time.
The Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 is an intriguing product that promises to elevate your drink experience with its signature soft and crunchy nugget ice. The machine's design is both sleek and practical, featuring a stylish matte navy exterior that can add a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. With its convenient size, it is designed to fit seamlessly under cabinets, making it a perfect countertop companion. The thoughtful inclusion of an ice scoop and drip tray further enhances its user-friendly nature. This appliance is not just about aesthetics; it's about delivering a superior ice-making performance. For those seeking a reliable source of chewable ice, the Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 offers a compelling solution. You can find more details and purchase this innovative appliance through this Check Price on Amazon.
One of the standout features of this ice maker is its incredible speed. It is capable of producing the first batch of ice in as little as 10-15 minutes, which is perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you simply can't wait for your favorite chilled drink. The daily production capacity is a robust 44 pounds, ensuring that you'll have an ample supply of ice even during high-demand periods. The large-capacity bin can hold up to 3 pounds of ice at a time, so you don't have to constantly transfer ice to your freezer. This rapid production and storage capacity make it a great choice for families, parties, or anyone who consumes a lot of ice. The built-in reservoir eliminates the need for a direct water hookup, adding to its convenience and portability. Just plug it in, fill the reservoir, and you're ready to go.
The convenience of the Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 doesn't stop at its rapid ice production. It also features an automated self-cleaning function, which is a major plus for hygiene and maintenance. With the simple press of a button, the machine initiates a cleaning cycle that helps to limit bacteria and ensures that every batch of ice tastes fresh and clean. This is a crucial feature, as regular cleaning is essential for any appliance that handles food or water. The machine also comes with an intuitive touch control panel, making it easy to operate and monitor the ice-making process. The drawer access and viewing window are clever design elements that allow you to check the ice levels at a glance, so you'll never be caught off guard without ice. This focus on user experience is what sets the Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 apart. For a closer look at these features, check out this Check Price on Amazon.
Beyond its technical specifications, the Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 is designed with a modern kitchen in mind. Its stylish matte exterior is complemented by cutting-edge details like the touch screen control panel, giving it a clean and contemporary look. The compact size allows it to fit under kitchen cabinets, ensuring it doesn't take up too much valuable counter space. However, it's important to pay attention to the measurements, as some customers have found it to be larger than they originally imagined. The machine is also described as a heavy and well-built unit, which contributes to its stability and durability. While it is not a portable appliance, its solid construction ensures it can handle the rigors of daily use.
A key point to remember is that this ice maker is designed to produce ice, not to store it. The unit does not keep the ice frozen once it's made. To prevent melting, you must promptly transfer the produced ice to your freezer. This is a crucial piece of information for potential buyers, as it affects how you use and manage the ice supply. While the large 3-pound bin offers temporary storage, for long-term use, the ice needs to be moved. The rapid production rate of 44 pounds per day ensures that you can quickly replenish your supply whenever needed. This product is a testament to Frigidaire's commitment to innovation and quality, as recognized by its CES 2023 Innovation Awards Honoree status. To learn more about this revolutionary product, visit this Check Price on Amazon.
The texture of the ice itself is a major selling point. It is described as chewable, crunchy, and airy, with a unique texture similar to what you would find in restaurants. For those who love "Sonic ice," this machine promises a similar experience. The ice is also reported to be more dense than some competitors, which means it melts more slowly. This is a significant advantage for those who enjoy chewing on ice, as it provides a satisfying crunch without dissolving too quickly. The unique texture and density of the ice are what make this machine a favorite among ice chewers, with one reviewer even being recommended to use this type of ice by their dentist. The taste of the ice is also a priority, with the self-cleaning function ensuring it remains fresh and clean. The positive feedback on the ice quality is a strong indicator of the machine's primary purpose and success.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It makes the best ice and makes it fast.
- One of the best purchases ever made.
- Has a longer lifespan than some other brands.
- It is easy to clean.
- It produces ice quickly.
- It is quieter than some other ice makers.
- The ice is soft, chewy, and like Sonic ice but more dense.
- The ice is dense enough that it does not melt quickly.
- The cleaning procedure is easy.
- It keeps up with the demands of a two-person household.
- It is a heavy, well-built machine that does its job effortlessly.
- It makes insanely perfect ice.
- It is very quiet.
Cons
- The feature that tells you when you’re out of water may not work.
- Less than 6 months after purchase, the machine can stop working.
- Customer service for warranty claims can be horrible.
- The cost to mail the defective unit for a warranty repair is high.
- The machine may start making loud, growling noises that get louder over time.
- The power and other indicator lights can burn out.
- The machine may start to turn itself off occasionally.
- It can freeze up, requiring a cleaning cycle to make it work again.
- The ice can become soft and have a shaved ice consistency.
- Black plastic can be found in the ice, indicating a broken internal component.
- Water may start leaking out of the bottom rubber base/feet.
- The water tank can be hard to remove sometimes.
- It may not always register when you have filled it up with water.
The customer reviews provide a mixed but insightful picture of the Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255. On one hand, many users are absolutely thrilled with the quality and speed of the ice production. The soft, chewable, and dense nugget ice is a major hit, with some customers even calling it the best ice maker they have ever owned. The machine's quiet operation, at least initially, and its easy cleaning procedure are also frequently mentioned as significant positives. One reviewer enthusiastically declared it to be "one of the best purchases I’ve ever made on Amazon." This level of satisfaction speaks volumes about the product's core functionality and its ability to deliver on its primary promise. It's clear that when the machine is working as intended, it provides a superior ice-making experience. For those who prioritize the quality of the ice above all else, the initial performance of the Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255 is hard to beat. Check out the latest offers for this model at this Check Price on Amazon.
On the other hand, a significant number of reviews highlight serious durability and reliability issues. The positive experiences are often short-lived, with machines breaking down within a year of purchase. One customer’s detailed account chronicles a litany of problems, including a loud, "growling" compressor, burned-out indicator lights, and the machine unexpectedly shutting itself off. The final straw for this user was the discovery of black plastic in the ice, a clear sign of a major internal failure. These issues are not isolated incidents and raise serious concerns about the long-term viability of the product. The challenges extend to the warranty and customer service process, which is described as "horrible" and frustrating, with customers being forced to pay for expensive shipping to return a defective unit. This experience can turn a good purchase into a financial and logistical nightmare. These critical reviews suggest that while the machine's performance is excellent out of the box, its longevity is questionable.
The recurring theme in the negative feedback is the decline in performance and the eventual mechanical failure. The "Is that you Satan" noises, as one reviewer colorfully put it, are a common complaint, indicating a failing compressor pump. The machine's ability to make ice can also become compromised, with it starting to produce "soft ice" or "shaved ice" that melts quickly. This is a stark contrast to the dense, chewable ice it is supposed to produce. The inconvenience of a machine that stops working or leaks water is a major drawback, especially for an appliance that costs over $300. The fact that multiple customers mention regretting their purchase and wishing they had bought a different brand, like the Opal, is a strong signal for potential buyers. It's a classic case of a product that is brilliant in its conception but flawed in its execution. The reliance on an extended warranty, as noted by several customers, seems to be a necessary precaution rather than a simple option.
Despite the serious issues, some users still find the machine to be a good investment, particularly if they are willing to deal with the potential downsides. The reviewer who experienced the "horrible" customer service and had to wait months for a replacement still noted that the replacement was "working just fine" six months later. This suggests that the issues may be a matter of receiving a defective unit rather than a flaw in every single machine. However, the high rate of such complaints is concerning. The machine's large size, while a surprise to some, is also a sign of its solid build and capacity, distinguishing it from smaller, less robust countertop models. The fact that it is a "heavy well built, ice maker" that is not portable underscores its commitment to doing one job—making a lot of great ice—very well. This focus is what makes it a contender for the best ice maker on the market, despite its flaws.
The FRIGIDAIRE Gallery EFIC255 is a product with a split personality. When it works, it is a truly fantastic appliance that delivers on its promise of perfect, chewable nugget ice. Its speed, capacity, and ease of use are top-notch, making it a joy to have in the kitchen. For a household of two, it can easily keep up with daily ice consumption, and the self-cleaning function is a huge plus. The unique texture of the ice is a major draw, and for ice chewers, it's a dream come true. However, the frequent reports of mechanical failures, loud noises, and poor customer service are impossible to ignore. The financial risk of a machine failing and the hassle of a warranty claim is a significant downside. Ultimately, the decision to purchase this ice maker comes down to your tolerance for risk. If you are willing to take a chance on a potentially brilliant but flawed product, and are prepared to possibly use the warranty, then the rewards are substantial. For those who prefer a more reliable and less troublesome experience, it might be wise to consider other options. The FRIGIDAIRE Gallery EFIC255 can be an incredible addition to your home, but be prepared for a bumpy ride. You can find more information and reviews on this product at this Check Price on Amazon.
When considering this purchase, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. The amazing quality of the ice and the fast production are undeniable strengths. The convenience of not needing a water hookup and the stylish design also add to its appeal. But the potential for it to become a "solo artist" serenading your kitchen with the sounds of a "MAC Truck," as one user described, is a serious consideration. The possibility of finding black plastic in your ice is a deal-breaker for most. The frustrating experience with customer service and the high cost of shipping for warranty claims are also significant deterrents. The fact that some of the basic features, like the "out of water" indicator, may not work further adds to the list of minor but annoying issues.
The FRIGIDAIRE Gallery EFIC255 is a product that lives and dies by its performance. When it’s on its game, it's a 5-star product. But when it starts to fail, it can quickly drop to a 1-star rating. The price point, over $300, sets a high expectation for durability and reliability, an expectation that, based on multiple customer reviews, it often fails to meet. This is a classic case of a product that is great in theory but has a number of issues in practice. The fact that one reviewer ended up wishing they had bought the Opal, a well-known competitor, speaks volumes about the level of disappointment some users feel.
In conclusion, the FRIGIDAIRE Gallery EFIC255 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is a machine that offers an exceptional ice-making experience when it is working properly. The nugget ice it produces is fast, dense, and a joy to chew. However, its significant reliability issues and reports of poor customer service make it a risky purchase. If you are an ice connoisseur who is willing to take the gamble and potentially navigate a difficult warranty process, you might find this to be the perfect machine. But if you are looking for a reliable, long-lasting appliance without the hassle, you might want to consider other options. The FRIGIDAIRE Gallery EFIC255 is a product with immense potential, but its execution leaves much to be desired. For those who want to take the plunge, you can find the product at this Check Price on Amazon and see for yourself.
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