ice machine - SZ floor model, alternatives

last year

We have come upon the latest challenge in our new build.

We ordered the SubZero ice machine with a pump - the UC-15IP.

We installed the appliances earlier this week and the ice machine is delayed, and have learned it has been discontinued by SZ.

The supplier has offered the following ideas. We are going for clear ice, top hat/cocktail size, in case it matters. We think we should get one with a pump from all I have researched and are going with a cabinet panel (not SS) front.

BLOT on the options (see more detail below): Would you be concerned with obtaining a 5-year old floor model that has never been turned on? Or be concerned with buying an appliance you know has been discontinued? Would you pivot to a different brand, and if so, experiences with Scotsman (Brilliance series), Perlick, True. I’m sure they can all make the ice, I’d be looking for reliability, ability to get service, and something quiet as possible in the world of ice makers. See options below.

The SZ rep says they will complete all orders and we can just wait for it to show up. Timeline currently contemplated for mid-August. But it was supposed to be here the end of April and I’m a little skeptical they will continue production. And potential service problems down the road on a discontinued item.
They have this exact model on the floor of their showroom and it has never been turned on. BUT….it’s been there since April 2020 so it’s already over 5 years old. It would be deeply discounted and have a 1 year warranty and 5 years of sealed-parts only warranty (add a year with certified installation).
They could source the Scotsman Brilliance Series clear ice machine as an alternative.
OR, I could just look to different brands from a different supplier - I would consider True or Perlick as well.

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Comment (1)

eam44
last year
You have four decent options. For what it’s worth, my SZ refrigerator was a floor model, and it has worked perfectly for 12 years. I know this is not your situation but I needed the discount or there’s no way I could have gotten it, so that made my decision a pretty easy one.

My sister’s Scotsman mini fridge dates from the 1980s and is still running strong, but the accompanying ice machine died long ago. I know these are anecdotes, but they do color our decision making. As does the fact that it’s July and you want ice now! What good will it do you at the end of summer?

I’d stick with SZ. They have a good history of longitudinal customer service, so even if the item is discontinued you will have parts available for the foreseeable future. If the waiting is the hardest part, go for the floor model. Good luck!
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