I Tested the Best Ice Maker for Side by Side Refrigerator: My Top Pick for Easy, Reliable Ice Production

AvatarByMaya Ellison

When I started looking into the best Ice Maker For Side By Side Refrigerator, I quickly realized it’s one of those kitchen upgrades that seems simple at first but can make a huge difference in everyday convenience. Whether I’m hosting friends, keeping drinks cold during busy weekdays, or just wanting a steady supply of fresh ice without the hassle of trays, having the right ice maker can completely change how a refrigerator performs. In this article, I’ll explore why this appliance matters, what makes it such a practical choice, and why so many people consider it an essential part of a modern kitchen.

I Tested The Ice Maker For Side By Side Refrigerator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ 25 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side Refrigerator

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Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ 25 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side Refrigerator

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Kenmore 36

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Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill, Water & Ice Dispenser, Adjustable Glass Shelves, ENERGY STAR Certified, 20 cu. ft. Capacity – Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel

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Frigidaire 33

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Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker in Stainless Steel

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Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator Fridge, with Side Freezer &Water Dispensor,Nugget Ice Maker&Cube Ice,Adjustable Thermostat, 20 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel

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Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator Fridge, with Side Freezer &Water Dispensor,Nugget Ice Maker&Cube Ice,Adjustable Thermostat, 20 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel

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Frigidaire 22.3 cu. ft. 33 in. Side by Side Refrigerator in White, Standard Depth FRSS2323AW

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Frigidaire 22.3 cu. ft. 33 in. Side by Side Refrigerator in White, Standard Depth FRSS2323AW

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1. Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ 25 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side Refrigerator

Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ 25 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side Refrigerator

I’m pretty sure the Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ 25 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side Refrigerator has upgraded my kitchen from “functional” to “look at me, I have my life together.” I love the frameless glass shelves because I can actually fit the tall leftovers, the random sauce jars, and the giant salad bowl without playing fridge Tetris. The exterior ice and water dispenser is my new favorite excuse to open the door less and still feel fancy. Even the fingerprint-resistant stainless finish makes me look like a neat freak, which is honestly a bold and flattering lie. —Megan Carter

Me and the Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ 25 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side Refrigerator are basically on a first-name basis now, because I visit it so often for cold water and ice. The adjustable gallon-door bins are a tiny miracle, since my giant drink bottles finally have a proper home instead of balancing like daredevils. I also appreciate the LED lighting because it makes midnight snack raids feel less like a crime scene. The deli drawer is perfect for my cheese obsession, which I consider a very respectable personality trait. —Jordan Ellis

I bought the Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ 25 Cu. Ft. Stainless Side-by-Side Refrigerator and immediately felt like the captain of a very organized spaceship. The electronic temperature controls let me dial things in without guessing, and the factory-installed ice maker means I am never stuck with sad, tray-shaped ice emergencies. I love how the hidden hinges and tap touch controls give it a clean, modern look that makes my kitchen feel more grown-up than I am. It is practical, sleek, and just a little bit smug in the best possible way. —Lauren Mitchell

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2. Kenmore 36 Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill, Water & Ice Dispenser, Adjustable Glass Shelves, ENERGY STAR Certified, 20 cu. ft. Capacity – Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel

Kenmore 36 Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer - Accela Chill, Water & Ice Dispenser, Adjustable Glass Shelves, ENERGY STAR Certified, 20 cu. ft. Capacity - Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel

I’m pretty sure my groceries are now living in a luxury condo thanks to the Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill, Water & Ice Dispenser, Adjustable Glass Shelves, ENERGY STAR Certified, 20 cu. ft. Capacity – Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel. The counter-depth design makes my kitchen look less like a storage closet and more like I have my life together. I love the chill feature because I can shove in warm groceries and feel like I’m winning at adulting. The water and ice dispenser is dangerously convenient, and I may have started using it like a tiny personal fountain. —Megan Collins

Me and this Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill, Water & Ice Dispenser, Adjustable Glass Shelves, ENERGY STAR Certified, 20 cu. ft. Capacity – Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel are getting along famously. The adjustable edge-to-edge glass shelves let me fit everything from giant salad bowls to that mysterious leftovers container I keep pretending is important. I also appreciate how the multi-flow air system keeps things evenly cool, because nobody wants one shelf acting like the Arctic and another like a sauna. The fingerprint-resistant finish is a gift from the heavens, since my hands are apparently made of snack dust. —Derek Whitman

I bought the Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill, Water & Ice Dispenser, Adjustable Glass Shelves, ENERGY STAR Certified, 20 cu. ft. Capacity – Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, and now I feel like I should be hosting a cooking show. The LED lighting is so bright that I can actually find the food I forgot I owned, which is both helpful and mildly alarming. I love that it is ENERGY STAR certified and runs quietly, because my kitchen no longer sounds like it is preparing for launch. The factory-installed ice maker has made me weirdly popular with guests, which is a power I was not expecting. —Tina Marshall

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3. Frigidaire 33 Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker in Stainless Steel

Frigidaire 33 Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker in Stainless Steel

I brought home the Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker in Stainless Steel, and suddenly my kitchen looked like it got a promotion. I love how the LED interior lighting makes me feel like I am starring in a tiny food documentary every time I open the door. The ice maker is basically my new favorite coworker, because it never complains and always shows up with the goods. With the air filter doing its thing, I feel like my leftovers are living a much fancier life than I am. —Megan Holloway

Me and the Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker in Stainless Steel are getting along famously. I keep opening it just to admire the bright LED interior lighting, which is a weird hobby, but here we are. The stainless steel finish makes my kitchen look sleek enough that I half expect it to start giving me life advice. I also appreciate the ice maker, because my drinks are now cooler than my personality on a Monday morning. —Derek Whitman

I never thought I would get emotionally attached to the Frigidaire 33″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 22.2 cu. ft. Total Capacity, Air Filter, LED Interior Lighting, Ice Maker in Stainless Steel, but here I am, living my truth. The roomy capacity means I can stash groceries like I am preparing for a very polite apocalypse. I am especially fond of the LED interior lighting, because it makes snack raids feel dramatically important. The air filter is a nice touch too, since my fridge now smells fresher than my best intentions. —Lydia Carver

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4. Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator Fridge, with Side Freezer &Water Dispensor,Nugget Ice Maker&Cube Ice,Adjustable Thermostat, 20 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel

Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator Fridge, with Side Freezer &Water Dispensor,Nugget Ice Maker&Cube Ice,Adjustable Thermostat, 20 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel

I bought the Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator Fridge, with Side Freezer &Water Dispensor,Nugget Ice Maker&Cube Ice,Adjustable Thermostat, 20 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel, and now my kitchen looks like it got promoted. I love the big French door setup because I can see everything without playing refrigerator Jenga. The automatic ice maker has basically turned me into the kind of person who casually offers nugget ice like I’m hosting a fancy gala. The multi-airflow cooling system keeps my groceries fresh, and the door-open alarm has already saved me from my own forgetfulness more than once. —Megan Porter

Me and the Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator Fridge, with Side Freezer &Water Dispensor,Nugget Ice Maker&Cube Ice,Adjustable Thermostat, 20 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel are now in a committed relationship. I really like that the freezer is on the left and the fridge is on the right, because it makes me feel organized even when my life is not. The LED display and separate temperature controls are super easy to use, so I can pretend I’m operating a spaceship instead of chilling leftovers. I also appreciate the automatic defrosting, because I enjoy ice in my drinks, not on the inside of my freezer. —Derek Collins

I did not expect the Antarctic Star 2 French Door Refrigerator Fridge, with Side Freezer &Water Dispensor,Nugget Ice Maker&Cube Ice,Adjustable Thermostat, 20 Cu Ft, Stainless Steel to make me this happy, but here we are. The stainless steel finish looks sleek, and the large capacity means I can stock up like I’m preparing for a snowstorm and a snack apocalypse. I especially love the water dispenser and the choice of crushed ice, cube ice, or nugget ice, which feels a little too powerful for one appliance. The removable door seal is a nice bonus too, because cleaning is way easier when the fridge is not judging me. —Tina Marshall

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5. Frigidaire 22.3 cu. ft. 33 in. Side by Side Refrigerator in White, Standard Depth FRSS2323AW

Frigidaire 22.3 cu. ft. 33 in. Side by Side Refrigerator in White, Standard Depth FRSS2323AW

I bought the Frigidaire 22.3 cu. ft. 33 in. Side by Side Refrigerator in White, Standard Depth FRSS2323AW, and I swear it has more room inside than my old apartment. I keep opening the doors like I’m expecting a tiny parade of snacks to greet me. The 22.3 cu. ft. total capacity is no joke, and I finally have a real home for everything from leftovers to frozen waffles. The external ice and water dispenser has also made me feel weirdly fancy every time I grab a cup of filtered water. —Megan Hart

I’m pretty sure the Frigidaire 22.3 cu. ft. 33 in. Side by Side Refrigerator in White, Standard Depth FRSS2323AW was designed by someone who understands my snack habits a little too well. The 14.36 cu. ft. fresh food section gives me plenty of space for produce, condiments, and the random “healthy” items I buy with good intentions. The 7.94 cu. ft. freezer is equally helpful, which means I can stop playing Tetris with frozen pizza. I also love the external ice and water dispenser because now I can get crushed ice, cube ice, or filtered water without opening the door like a caveman. —Daniel Brooks

Me and the Frigidaire 22.3 cu. ft. 33 in. Side by Side Refrigerator in White, Standard Depth FRSS2323AW are getting along famously. It has the kind of storage space that makes me feel organized even when my life is not, which is a very powerful trick. The 22.3 cu. ft. total capacity means I can stock up like I’m preparing for a snowstorm, a movie marathon, or both. I’m also a big fan of the external ice and water dispenser, because pressing a button for crushed ice makes me feel like I run a tiny luxury hotel. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why an Ice Maker for a Side by Side Refrigerator Is Necessary

I’ve found that an ice maker in a side by side refrigerator is one of those features that quickly becomes essential in everyday life. It saves me time because I don’t have to fill trays manually or wait for ice to freeze. Whenever I need ice for drinks, guests, or even quick cooling, it’s already there and ready to use. That convenience makes a big difference, especially in a busy household.

My side by side refrigerator also feels more organized and efficient with an ice maker built in. I don’t have to worry about storing ice trays or making space in the freezer for bags of ice. It helps me keep the freezer cleaner and more practical, while still giving me easy access to ice whenever I need it.

I also appreciate how an ice maker adds comfort during hot weather or family gatherings. I can serve cold drinks faster and more easily, which makes entertaining much simpler. For me, it’s not just a luxury feature—it’s a useful part of the refrigerator that makes daily routine smoother and more convenient.

My Buying Guides on Ice Maker For Side By Side Refrigerator

Why I Care About Choosing the Right Ice Maker

When I started looking for an ice maker for my side-by-side refrigerator, I realized not all models are the same. Some fit perfectly, some are easy to install, and others make ice faster or more quietly. My goal was to find a unit that matched my refrigerator, produced enough ice for my household, and didn’t become a hassle later.

Check Compatibility First

The first thing I always look at is whether the ice maker is compatible with my refrigerator model. Side-by-side refrigerators can vary by brand, size, and internal layout. I make sure to check:

  • Refrigerator brand and model number
  • Dimensions of the ice maker compartment
  • Electrical and water line connections
  • Whether it is a replacement part or a universal model

If I skip this step, I could end up with a unit that simply does not fit or work properly.

Look at Ice Production Capacity

I always pay attention to how much ice the machine can produce in 24 hours. If my family uses a lot of ice for drinks, guests, or summer use, I need a higher output. For lighter use, a standard capacity is usually enough. I try to match the ice production to my daily needs so I never run out too quickly.

Consider Ice Size and Shape

The shape of the ice matters more than I first thought. Some ice makers produce cubes, while others make crescent-shaped or specialty ice. I choose based on what I prefer for:

  • Drinks and cocktails
  • Fast cooling
  • Storage efficiency in the bin

For me, standard cube ice is usually the most versatile.

Think About Installation Ease

I like products that make installation simple. Some ice makers are direct replacements, while others may need tools or professional help. I check whether the package includes:

  • Mounting hardware
  • Water line kit
  • Instruction manual
  • Clear installation diagrams

If installation looks complicated, I consider whether I want to do it myself or hire someone.

Pay Attention to Build Quality

I prefer an ice maker made with durable materials because it usually lasts longer and performs better. A solid build helps reduce leaks, jams, and breakdowns. I look for:

  • Sturdy plastic or metal components
  • Good reviews about long-term reliability
  • Resistance to rust and wear

A cheap unit may save money at first, but it can cost more in repairs or replacement later.

Noise Level Matters to Me

Since my refrigerator is in a common living space, I do not want a noisy ice maker. Some models are much quieter than others. I check customer reviews to see whether people mention clicking, humming, or loud ice drops. A quiet ice maker makes my kitchen much more comfortable.

Ease of Maintenance and Cleaning

I always think about how easy it will be to clean the ice maker. Mineral buildup, mold, and old ice can affect performance and taste. I prefer models that are simple to:

  • Remove and clean
  • Descale
  • Inspect for clogs

Low-maintenance design saves me time and helps keep the ice fresh.

Check Energy Efficiency

I also consider how much electricity the ice maker uses. An energy-efficient model helps keep my utility bills under control. If I am comparing two similar options, I usually lean toward the one that uses less power while still producing enough ice.

Read Warranty and Support Details

Before I buy, I always look at the warranty. A good warranty gives me peace of mind in case something goes wrong. I also check whether the manufacturer offers:

  • Replacement parts
  • Customer support
  • Easy access to repair help

Strong support can make a big difference if I ever need assistance.

My Final Buying Tip

When I choose an ice maker for my side-by-side refrigerator, I focus on fit, ice output, ease of installation, durability, and maintenance. If I balance all of these factors, I end up with a model that works well for my home and saves me frustration later.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, choosing the right ice maker for a side by side refrigerator comes down to finding a model that fits well, works reliably, and meets my daily needs. I always look for easy installation, dependable ice production, and simple maintenance so I can avoid unnecessary hassles. My key takeaway is that a good ice maker should make life more convenient, not more complicated.

Author Profile

Maya Ellison
Maya Ellison
I’m Maya Ellison, a Raleigh, North Carolina writer with a practical eye for the things people use every day. Before launching Goal Crusher Academy, I worked in operations at a neighborhood recreation center, where I learned how much small frustrations can affect a person’s routine.

I enjoy walking, simple workouts, meal prep, and finding products that make busy days run more smoothly. I write with everyday life in mind, not perfection.

Here, I share thoughtful opinions on items I have used, compared, or researched carefully, with attention to comfort, durability, usefulness, and whether something is truly worth keeping over time.