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Antarctic Star Countertop Bullet Ice Maker: features, specs and who it suits

A compact countertop ice maker rated at 26 lb of bullet ice a day, with two cube sizes, a self-cleaning cycle and sub-40 dB operation. What the specs mean.

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The Antarctic Star countertop ice maker is a small appliance that makes bullet-shaped ice at home, without a freezer tray or a built-in fridge dispenser. It is sized for kitchen counters, and Antarctic Star also pitches it for RVs, parties and camping. Here is what its numbers mean and what to plan for.

How fast it makes ice

Antarctic Star says the machine produces 8 ice cubes in about 6 minutes and up to 26 lb of ice per day. Those are rated figures under the brand's conditions. Portable ice makers typically make ice in batches and drop it into a basket, so the daily total depends on how often you empty the basket and on room temperature, which usually affects output.

Bullet ice is the small, hollow, rounded cylinder shape. It cools drinks quickly and works well in glasses and bottles. The listing says the maker offers two cube sizes, so you can choose smaller or larger pieces.

Size and where it fits

The footprint is about 10.4 x 8.7 x 11.2 inches (roughly 26 x 22 x 28 cm). That fits on most counters, a bar cart or a small table. The brand suggests uses such as an RV, a tailgate setup or a beach cabana. Remember that the machine needs a power outlet and a place to stand level, and it needs space around it so air can move.

Self-cleaning and upkeep

Antarctic Star describes a one-touch self-cleaning cycle that it recommends running weekly, or after two weeks without use. Portable ice makers generally hold water in a reservoir, so regular cleaning and fresh water help keep ice tasting clean. Always follow the manual for the cleaning steps and any solution it permits.

A basket and scoop are included for collecting and serving ice.

Noise

The brand rates operation at under 40 dB, which it compares to a library. In practice, you will still hear the compressor and the sound of ice dropping, so it is worth thinking about where the machine will sit if it is near a bedroom or desk.

Energy use

Antarctic Star says an optimised motor and streamlined construction reduce energy consumption by 30%. The listing does not say what that is measured against, so treat it as the brand's own comparison.

Who it suits

It suits households that go through a lot of ice, people who host often, and anyone who wants ice in a space without a freezer, such as a garage, a cabin or an RV with a power hookup. Because it makes ice in batches rather than storing a large reserve, it is better for steady use than for filling a cooler all at once.

What to check before you buy

  • Counter space: measure the footprint and the height, including room to lift the lid.
  • Water supply: portable models usually need you to fill a reservoir by hand; check the manual.
  • Daily ice needs: compare the 26 lb daily figure with how much you use at a party.
  • Ice storage: bullet ice melts in the basket unless the machine is made to keep it cold; check how the manual handles this.
  • Cleaning routine: be ready to run the cleaning cycle on the brand's schedule.
  • Placement: keep it on a level surface and away from heat sources.

The short version

  • A countertop bullet ice maker rated at 8 cubes in about 6 minutes and 26 lb a day.
  • Two ice sizes, with a basket and scoop included.
  • One-touch self-cleaning cycle, suggested weekly.
  • About 10.4 x 8.7 x 11.2 inches, with a stated noise level under 40 dB.
  • Brand-stated 30% lower energy use from an optimised motor.

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