Frigidaire Ice Maker EFIC106 SS: Still the Best Basic Model?

I still remember hosting a summer barbecue a few years ago, walking over to the freezer to make a round of drinks, and finding the ice bin completely empty. It is a specific kind of hosting panic. That was the day I realized relying on standard freezer ice just does not cut it for entertaining. Enter the frigidaire ice maker efic106 ss. I have tested dozens of portable ice makers since then, but this classic stainless steel model has remained a constant benchmark in the industry. It skips the flashy touchscreens for pure, reliable utility.

If you are trying to decide if this veteran machine deserves a spot on your kitchen counter or home bar, you have to look past the marketing specs and see how it actually handles daily use. Let's break down how this unit performs when the pressure is on.

Quick Takeaways

• Stainless steel exterior resists smudges and physical wear far better than glossy plastic models.
• Produces its first batch of bullet ice in roughly 7 to 8 minutes.
• Max output is 26 lbs per day, but requires frequent emptying of the 1.5 lb internal basket.
• Compressor noise hovers around 50 dB—noticeable in a quiet kitchen but easily fades into background chatter.

The Appeal of the Frigidaire Ice Maker EFIC106 SS

I have tested a lot of ice makers packed with Wi-Fi connectivity, complex self-cleaning cycles, and digital displays. Honestly, most of those extra features just become the first things to break. The appeal of this specific Frigidaire model is its absolute simplicity. It features exactly two buttons: power and ice size selection. You pour water into the reservoir, hit the power button, and you get ice.

For a home bar setup, an RV, or a straightforward kitchen, this lack of complexity is a massive selling point. There are no apps to download or confusing error codes to decipher. It is a workhorse appliance that does exactly one job, and it does it reliably. That basic, no-frills approach is why it remains a popular staple year after year.

Stainless Steel Build Quality vs. Plastic Models

When you compare the frigidaire efic106-ss to the sea of cheap, brightly colored plastic units on the market, the build quality stands out immediately. The stainless steel wrapping is not just for show. In my testing, I have found it genuinely holds up better against accidental bumps from heavy pots or bar tools. Glossy plastic models tend to show micro-scratches after just a few months of wiping them down with paper towels.

The brushed steel finish here hides fingerprints reasonably well, though you will still want to use a proper stainless cleaner once a month to keep it looking sharp. While the top lid and internal basket are still plastic—which is standard across the industry—the metal housing gives it a premium feel that matches standard high-end kitchen appliances seamlessly.

Testing the Frigidaire EFIC106-SS Ice Production

In my kitchen tests, this unit consistently dropped its first batch of nine bullet-shaped ice cubes in exactly 7 minutes and 45 seconds. You get two size options: small and large. The large bullets are slightly thicker and melt slower in a glass of iced coffee, while the small ones are hollower and perfect for crunching. The machine claims a 26-pound daily maximum output.

However, living with a 26-pound daily capacity means understanding that the internal basket only holds about 1.5 pounds at a time. If you do not empty it into your main freezer, the infrared sensor detects that the basket is full and the machine stops making ice. It is fantastic for keeping a steady flow during a party, but do not expect to wake up to 26 pounds of ice waiting for you in the morning.

Space and Power Requirements for Your Countertop

Measuring roughly 15 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 14 inches tall, it demands a fair chunk of counter real estate. You also need to leave at least six inches of clearance on the sides and back for the exhaust fan. If you shove it tight against a wall, the compressor will overheat and your ice production will slow to a crawl.

On the electrical side, it pulls about 120 watts during the freezing cycle. I plugged it into a power meter, and the initial compressor surge hit around 1.5 amps. If you live in an older building with sensitive wiring, you should definitely read up on ice maker power consumption requirements. Generally, though, it runs perfectly fine on a standard 15-amp kitchen circuit alongside a fridge or microwave without tripping any breakers.

Maintenance Tips for the Frigidaire Ice Maker EFIC106-SS

The biggest killer of countertop ice makers is hard water buildup on the freezing prongs. The frigidaire ice maker efic106-ss does not have an automatic self-cleaning function, so you have to roll up your sleeves. Every three to four weeks, I run a mixture of half distilled white vinegar and half water through a couple of cycles.

Afterward, I drain it using the plug at the bottom front, wipe down the metal prongs with a soft microfiber cloth, and run two cycles of fresh water to clear out any lingering vinegar taste. Leaving stagnant water sitting in the reservoir for days is a recipe for mold, so always drain the machine completely if you are not going to use it for the weekend.

Final Thoughts: Is the Classic EFIC106 SS Worth It?

After testing dozens of models, I still recommend this unit for people who want a durable, straightforward appliance without paying a premium for gimmicks. It makes ice quickly, looks great next to a stainless steel fridge, and takes a beating. The honest downside? The lack of a self-cleaning mode requires a bit more manual upkeep, and the ice dropping into the empty plastic basket is a bit noisy. If you need massive amounts of ice for a large family, you might want to upgrade to a 40-pound model. But for average home bar use, it remains a highly reliable baseline choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make ice?

The first batch of nine bullet cubes takes about 7 to 8 minutes. Subsequent batches often drop slightly faster as the machine's interior cools down.

Does this ice maker keep the ice frozen?

No, it acts as a well-insulated cooler, not a freezer. As the ice slowly melts, the water drips back into the reservoir below to be recycled into fresh ice.

How do you drain the water from the unit?

There is a small silicone drain plug located at the bottom front of the machine. Simply place the unit over a sink, pull the plug, and let the water empty out completely.