EdgeStar vs Coolake Ice Makers: Which Brand Fits You?
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When comparing an EdgeStar vs coolake ice maker, you face two distinct approaches to home cooling. Both units offer stainless steel finishes and undercounter sizing for kitchen integration. The main difference lies in output and maintenance. The Coolake model targets high-volume needs with self-cleaning features and gravity drain options. The EdgeStar focuses on compact, drainless operation for smaller spaces. You must decide between daily production volume and installation simplicity.
Key differences
| Aspect | Coolake 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker | EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | 100 lbs | 15 lbs |
| Storage Capacity | 40 lbs | 12 lbs |
| Form Factor | Undercounter | Built-In |
| Drain Type | Gravity Drain | No Drain Required |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 15 x 20.7 x 33.1 inches | 14.9 x 17 x 24.9 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Coolake 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker if
- You need high-volume ice for parties or commercial use.
- You want a self-cleaning cycle to reduce manual maintenance.
- You have a tall undercounter space requiring a 33-inch height.
Choose EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker if
- You prefer a drainless unit for flexible placement.
- You have limited vertical space under 25 inches.
- You only need ice for occasional home use.
Verdict: Choose the Coolake if you require significant daily production and have the space for a taller unit. Select the EdgeStar if you prioritize a compact footprint and the convenience of a drainless design for small kitchens.
EdgeStar vs Coolake Comparison
Daily Ice Capacity
The Coolake unit produces up to 100 pounds of ice daily. Each cycle takes 15 to 18 minutes. It stores 30 pounds of ice in its bin. This output suits high-demand environments like busy bars or large parties. The EdgeStar model produces 15 pounds per day. It holds 12 pounds in its storage bin. This lower output fits smaller households or occasional use. You should choose Coolake if you need continuous ice for events. EdgeStar works better for light, daily personal use.
Installation and Venting
Coolake features a front-venting system. This allows for built-in or freestanding installation in tight spaces. It does not require side or rear clearance. The unit measures 15 inches wide and 33.1 inches high. EdgeStar is designed as a built-in unit. It measures 14.9 inches wide and 24.9 inches high. Its compact height fits under standard counters. You need to check your space for Coolake's height. EdgeStar offers a lower profile for standard cabinetry integration.
Drainage Requirements
EdgeStar is a drainless ice maker. It does not require a permanent drain connection. This simplifies installation in locations without plumbing access. Coolake lists gravity drain as a feature. This implies it uses a drainage system for water management. You must ensure a drain line is available for Coolake. EdgeStar allows placement anywhere with power. This makes EdgeStar more flexible for temporary setups or remote areas.
Control and Customization
Coolake includes a smart LCD control panel. You can adjust ice thickness by setting the making time. This allows for thin ice for drinks or thick cubes for cocktails. It also features soft-glowing interior LED lighting. EdgeStar does not list specific control features in the provided data. You cannot customize ice thickness based on the available specs. Coolake offers more user control over ice shape and size. EdgeStar relies on standard operation without visible customization options.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Coolake offers a one-touch self-cleaning cycle. You press the button for three seconds to activate it. This eliminates manual scrubbing of the interior. It also includes a filter to reduce scaling from hard water. EdgeStar does not mention self-cleaning or water filtration features. You may need to perform manual cleaning for EdgeStar. Coolake simplifies maintenance for busy kitchens. The filter helps protect the interior from corrosion and scaling.
Choose the Right Ice Maker for You
Hosts needing high volume ice for parties
The Coolake model produces up to 100 pounds of ice daily. This high output ensures you never run out during peak hours. The 30-pound storage bin keeps ice ready for guests. You get a continuous supply for large gatherings without waiting for cycles to finish.
Renters or those without drainage access
The EdgeStar unit requires no drain connection. This feature simplifies installation in spaces where plumbing is unavailable. You avoid the complexity of gravity drain setups. It is a practical choice for locations where modifying water lines or adding drainage is not possible or desirable.
Users wanting customizable ice cube thickness
Coolake includes an LCD panel to adjust ice thickness. You can set the making time to create thicker or thinner cubes. This flexibility lets you match ice to specific drinks. Thicker cubes melt slower for cocktails, while thinner ones cool soft drinks faster.
The products compared
Coolake 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker
Best for: High-volume home bars and outdoor kitchens
- Daily Ice Production
- Up to 100 lbs
- Storage Capacity
- 30 lbs
- Ice Type
- Cube
- Form Factor
- Built-in, freestanding, undercounter
- Batch Time
- 15-18 minutes
- Drain Type
- Gravity drain
View on Amazon: Coolake 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker Affiliate link
The Coolake IM55BS-100LBS is a 15-inch undercounter ice maker designed for high-volume needs. It produces up to 100 pounds of ice daily with a 30-pound storage bin. The unit features a self-cleaning function and an LCD panel for adjusting cube thickness. Its front-venting system allows for flexible built-in or freestanding installation. This model suits home bars, offices, or outdoor spaces requiring substantial ice supply without complex drainage requirements.
Pros
- Produces 100 pounds of ice per day
- Includes 30-pound storage bin for continuous supply
- Features one-touch self-cleaning cycle
- Front-venting design allows flexible installation
Cons
- Heavier at 65 pounds than the EdgeStar competitor
- Requires gravity drain rather than self-contained drainage
- Lacks remote control functionality
Good fit if
- You need high daily ice production for parties
- You want a self-cleaning unit for easy maintenance
- You have space for a 15-inch wide appliance
Skip if
- You require a self-contained drainage system
- You prefer a lighter unit under 60 pounds
- You need remote control operation
Verdict: Coolake 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker delivers high output for busy environments but requires gravity drainage and weighs more than lighter competitors.
EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker
Best for: small kitchens needing no-drain convenience
- Daily Ice Production
- 15 lb/day
- Storage Capacity
- 12 lb
- Form Factor
- Built-in
- Drain Type
- No drain required
- Color
- Stainless Steel
- Dimensions
- 17 × 14.9 × 24.9 inches
View on Amazon: EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker Affiliate link
The EdgeStar IB121SS is a 15-inch built-in ice maker designed for under-counter installation. It produces 15 pounds of ice daily with a 12-pound storage bin. You do not need a drain line for operation. The unit measures 14.9 inches wide and weighs 50 pounds. Its stainless steel finish fits modern kitchen aesthetics. This model suits users who want a compact, self-contained ice solution without plumbing complexity.
Pros
- Produces 15 pounds of ice per day
- No drain required for installation
- Built-in form factor fits under counters
- Stainless steel exterior finish
Cons
- 15 pounds daily production is lower than the 130 pounds/day competitor
- 12-pound storage bin holds less ice than larger units
- Heavier at 50 pounds, requiring sturdy cabinetry support
Good fit if
- You need a compact ice maker for a small kitchen or bar
- You prefer a built-in appliance that blends with cabinetry
- You want to avoid the hassle of installing a drain line
Skip if
- You require high-volume ice production for large gatherings
- You need a portable unit that sits on a countertop
- You want a larger storage capacity than 12 pounds
Verdict: EdgeStar 15" Built-In Ice Maker is a solid choice for small spaces where aesthetics and ease of installation matter more than volume. It fits users who prioritize a clean look and no-drain convenience over raw ice output.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Coolake 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker | EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | Up to 100 lbs | 15 lb/day |
| Storage Capacity | 30 lbs | 12 lb |
| Ice Type | Cube | not stated |
| Form Factor | Built-in, freestanding, undercounter | Built-in |
| Batch Time | 15-18 minutes | not stated |
| Drain Type | Gravity drain | No drain required |
| Features | Self-Cleaning, Gravity Drain | not stated |
| Application | Home, Bar, Kitchen, Outdoor | not stated |
| Color | not stated | Stainless Steel |
| Room | Home Bar | not stated |
| Placement | Restaurant | not stated |
| Dimensions | 20.7 × 15 × 33.1 inches | 17 × 14.9 × 24.9 inches |
| Weight | 65 pounds | 50 pounds |
| Model | IM55BS-100LBS | IB121SS |
Frequently asked questions
Which ice maker is smaller and lighter?
The EdgeStar model is more compact. It measures 14.9 inches wide and weighs 50 pounds. The Coolake unit is larger, with a width of 15 inches and a weight of 65 pounds. If you have limited counter space or need to move the unit occasionally, the EdgeStar fits tighter spaces better.
Do I need a drain hose for the EdgeStar?
No, the EdgeStar is a drainless unit. It recycles water internally, so you do not need to connect a gravity drain hose. This makes installation easier in kitchens or bars where plumbing access is limited. You simply empty the internal reservoir when prompted.
Which unit is better for outdoor kitchens?
The Coolake ice maker is designed for outdoor applications. Its attributes list outdoor use as a primary placement. It also features a gravity drain, which is often preferred for permanent outdoor installations. The EdgeStar is listed for home and bar use but does not specify outdoor suitability.
How do I clean these ice makers?
The Coolake model includes a self-cleaning feature to simplify maintenance. This function helps remove residue without manual scrubbing. The EdgeStar data does not list a self-cleaning mode. You will likely need to follow standard manual cleaning procedures for the EdgeStar unit more frequently.
Can I install these under a counter?
Yes, both units are designed for undercounter placement. The Coolake is a 15-inch undercounter model. The EdgeStar is a 15-inch built-in model with a stainless steel finish. Both are intended to fit standard cabinetry dimensions for a seamless look in your kitchen or bar area.
Which one produces more ice per day?
The Coolake unit has a higher daily output. It produces up to 100 pounds of ice per day. This high volume supports busy environments. The EdgeStar data does not specify a daily ice production rate in the provided specs, focusing instead on its compact, drainless design.