How fast does it make ice?

The first nugget ice comes out in about six minutes. It can produce up to 34 pounds over 24 hours if you keep the reservoir filled and empty the basket.

Do I need to plumb it in?

No. It is a portable countertop unit that you fill by hand, so it works on any counter or in an RV. You refill the reservoir as the ice is made.

Nugget ice is soft, chewable pellet ice with air pockets, the kind restaurants serve in sodas. It chills drinks quickly and is easy to chew, but it melts faster than cube ice.

It has a self-cleaning mode that circulates water through the system. You still drain and wipe the reservoir and basket regularly.

Is it good for a family?

It suits one to three people or occasional entertaining. A busy household that goes through a lot of ice may outrun the 34-pound daily output and the manual refills.