Ice cube technology

[Roy M]

As I approach the actual construction of my boat's freezer, I realize my greatest challenge is how to make and store ice cubes. I would probably place the trays (or other suggested devices) into the freezer, up against the cold plates, when my stable multihull is at anchor or under power. This affords me the least chance of spilling and freezing of the spill water where it's not helpful.

Can any of the CF denizens with freezers please share their tricks to crafting these handy little items that often are so helpful to chilling drinks, feeding to dogs, etc.? My two cold plates are vertical, about 24" tall and 13" wide. The box is 2-layered with storage baskets. I am hoping to have separate ice cube storage and production immediately against the cold plates. I would pull the cube baskets out to access the lowest storage baskets.

[Rubikoop]

I've used vertical trays like this for years and love them. http://www.downwindmarine.com/Adler-...-91000691.html

I would choke on paying the price listed on the link. It was just the first thing I found on a Google search.

[Vasco]

All sorts of non spill ice cube trays on Amazon. Have been using them for years, no spills.

[colemj]

We have these: Amazon.com: Tupperware Pure & Fresh Covered Ice Cube Tray in Purple: Kitchen & Dining

But have since moved onto these: rose_euforia My Tupperware Collection: Tupperware Rainbow Snowflakes Cubes Gift Set (6) 80ml

They make large cubes that last through several drinks and are completely spill-less as they freeze.

Mark

[CarlF]

I buy 10lbs of ice cubes

1. Making ice cubes uses a lot of energy as it is a phase transition (liquid to solid). This will strain your system and can mean more engine time.

2. During the freezing, it can raise your freezer box temperature possibly hurting other food.

3. Freezers work best when full. (I use the ice cubes as filler)

Even places with questionable water often have good quality ice cubes at very reasonable prices.

I divide the ice cubes in ziplock bags to tuck into corners. It's a very rare offshore passage where I go through the ice cubes and have to start making them.

Try to not put things directly against the cold plates. The aluminum of the plates transfer heat much better to the air in the box than most materials. Food can actually be a pretty good insulator.

[colemj]

Originally Posted by CarlF

I buy 10lbs of ice cubes

That is not even possible at any price where we cruise.

Mark

[Vasco]

Buy ice? If you can find it, it's usually slush. Hard to find ice for sale here.

[tamicatana]

Also have the AB vertical trays. They ain't cheap, so look for deals

Another option is the little plastic refreezable "cubes" like these:
30 Reusable Ice Cubes - BedBathandBeyond.com

[Sailmonkey]

Originally Posted by tamicatana

Also have the AB vertical trays. They ain't cheap, so look for deals

Another option is the little plastic refreezable "cubes" like these:
30 Reusable Ice Cubes - BedBathandBeyond.com

I tried the little cube things.......found I need the ice water in my rum to avoid the drunks.

[SailorTrish]

We are on a 36 foot Pearson and have found a spot for a portable ice maker. It's a Magic Chef available on eBay for 129.00. I used some credit card points to get ours. It stores nicely under the V birth. Works like a champ at the dock. When away from shore power I use the Snaptainer ice trays from getstorganized.com They sit on edge nicely in the freezer. They are a bit of a pain to get completely full of water but never leak.

[azsailor12]

Originally Posted by tamicatana

Also have the AB vertical trays. They ain't cheap, so look for deals

Another option is the little plastic refreezable "cubes" like these:
30 Reusable Ice Cubes - BedBathandBeyond.com

We tried these too, and prefer the watering down factor, but they work if you can't find or make ice.

[Dod42]

We have always likes the Glad plastic ice cube bags. You can get them on Amazons but we can just get them from the supermarket here.

Amazon.com: Disposable Ice Cube Bag 20 Pack: Kitchen & Dining

[bobconnie]

Try Camping World on line they have no spill ice cube trays on sale right now for under 3 dollars US. Sometimes its good to get away from West marine LOL Just kiddin this place has a bunch of stuff that work real well on a boat ! and way less then WM We are cheap cruisers

[markpierce]

On fjords leading to glaciers, one can find/collect plenty of ice.