Question 1

How much counter space does this ice maker actually need? Is it suitable for tight kitchens or RVs?**

Accepted Answer

The FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189 is designed to fit small countertops, measuring roughly 13 inches wide and 15 inches deep—about the size of a medium bread box. Many apartment dwellers and RV owners confirm it slides neatly under upper cabinets or next to a coffee maker. Just leave a few inches of clearance on the sides for airflow, as some TikTok users noted the unit can heat up if crowded.

Question 2

I’ve heard the ice can taste like plastic at first. Is that a common issue, and how do you fix it?**

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most talked-about concerns in buyer forums. Like many new countertop ice makers, the first few batches may carry a faint plastic or metallic taste from manufacturing residues. The fix is simple: run two or three full cycles and discard the ice before using any. Several Reddit users recommend using filtered or distilled water after that initial flush to maintain clean-tasting cubes.

Question 3

Does this ice maker stop automatically when the basket is full, or will I have to watch it constantly?**

Accepted Answer

Yes, it includes a sensor that halts production when the ice basket is full—no babysitting required. However, a number of Amazon reviewers noted that the basket’s capacity is roughly 3–4 cups of ice, so if you’re hosting a gathering, you’ll still need to empty it periodically to keep the ice flowing. For a single person or couple, the auto-stop is a welcome hands-off feature.

Question 4

How loud is the ice maker compared to a refrigerator icemaker? Can I sleep with it running?**

Accepted Answer

It’s noticeably louder than your fridge’s ice maker—most users describe it as a gentle hum with a clicking or rattling sound during the ice drop cycle. YouTube reviews show decibel readings around 45–50 dB, comparable to a running dishwasher in the next room. Light sleepers often unplug it at night or move it to a separate counter. It’s best suited for a living area or kitchen rather than a bedroom.

Question 5

A lot of reviews say the unit breaks down after a few months. Is this common, and is the warranty reliable?**

Accepted Answer

Durability complaints do appear regularly in negative reviews, with some units failing within 3–6 months due to compressor or pump issues. That said, many owners have had success simply by descaling every 2–4 weeks (hard water accelerates breakdowns). The product comes with a standard 1-year limited warranty; customer support is generally responsive but best reached via phone rather than email, according to user reports. For peace of mind, consider an extended warranty if you plan heavy daily use.

FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Silver

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