Buying an ice maker might seem straightforward, but picking the wrong one could leave you without ice when you need it most—or stuck dealing with unnecessary headaches.

 Admittedly, ice makers aren’t usually the first appliance homeowners reach for when upgrading their kitchen or utility space. But these days, they’re no longer a luxury reserved only for the rich and famous. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need to keep your drinks cold on a hot day, having a nearly endless supply of ice can turn even simple tasks into smoother, more efficient experiences. That’s why it’s critical to know the key factors to consider before you buy. Below, we’ll break down the most important things to keep in mind when shopping for an ice maker.

First, pay close attention to ice production capacity—this directly determines whether you’ll have enough ice for daily use. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that the average American buys up to four bags of store-bought ice each year.

If you have a small family and only need ice occasionally (say, for chilling drinks or keeping fruit fresh in the fridge), a basic, compact ice maker will do the trick. There’s no need to splurge on a large model—you’ll just end up wasting electricity and taking up extra space.

On the flip side, if you’re buying for a business (like a tea shop or coffee shop) or have a big family that frequently hosts summer get-togethers, you’ll need a higher production capacity. Opt for a model designed for heavy use, one that can handle steady demand day in and day out. Miscalculating here could mean running out of ice when you’re craving an iced latte on a sweltering afternoon—or wasting energy running a large ice maker infrequently in the winter. Either way, it’s a major inconvenience.

Next, installation is make-or-break for ensuring your ice maker works properly. Start by checking for enough space. Never place the ice maker flush against a wall—you need to leave room around it for proper air circulation. Without good airflow, the machine won’t cool efficiently, which slows down ice production and can even shorten its lifespan. Then, think about power and water access. Ice makers need to be plugged in and connected to a water source, so look for a spot near an electrical outlet and water lines. Also, if you’re considering a built-in model, be sure to measure your cabinet space beforehand. Skip this step, and you could end up with a machine that doesn’t fit—a real hassle that’s easy to avoid.

Finally, it’s a smart move to choose an ice machine with a built-in water filter. The tap water we use often has impurities and mineral deposits (like limescale). Using tap water directly to make ice can result in cloudy, unappealing ice cubes—and those impurities can even affect the taste of your drinks. Over time, limescale can also build up inside the machine, slowing down ice production and potentially damaging its parts. An ice maker with a built-in filter removes these impurities and mineral deposits, making the ice cleaner, clearer, and safer to use. It also cuts down on maintenance work and extends the machine’s life.

Some ice makers without built-in filters might have a lower upfront cost, but you’ll end up needing to buy and install a separate filter later—and that adds up over time. Investing in a model with a built-in filter from the start is far more convenient (and often more cost-effective in the long run).

In short, when buying an ice maker machine, start by figuring out how much ice you need daily (based on whether it’s for home or business use), then choose a model with a storage capacity that matches its output. Next, make sure you have a suitable installation spot—one with enough space for air circulation. Whenever possible, go for a model with a built-in water filter. Keep these key points in mind, and you’ll find an easy-to-use ice maker that fits your needs, whether it’s for casual home use or busy business operations.

Not sure which ice maker is right for your space and needs? Check out the Coolake line of ice makers—you’re sure to find the perfect fit.