EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM Nugget Ice Maker Review

The EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM Nugget Ice Maker has rose to prominence in the crowded market of countertop ice machines thanks to its compact size, affordable price tag, and ability to produce the much-loved “Sonic-style” chewable ice.

If you’ve ever enjoyed the soft, crunchy ice in a Sonic drink or hospital cup, you’ve already experienced nugget ice. It was first developed for hospitals and clinics in the early 1980s and has since become a preferred option for many ice enthusiasts. Now ice makers like this from EUHOMY bring that convenience home.

But there are several things you might want to take into consideration before deciding on this model. And by the end of this review, you should know if this sonic ice maker is the right fit for you.

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Key Features

• Up to 34 lbs daily
• Simple two-button control panel
• Self-cleaning function
• Water-level indicator light
• Removable ice basket

Design and Build Quality

Aesthetically, the EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM has a basic, minimal design. The body features a black finish which blends right in with modern kitchen appliances. More importantly, it resists fingerprints and is easy to wipe clean without much effort.

Like most countertop ice makers, the unit is constructed primarily of ABS plastic. The plastic housing is thick and rigid, which makes it durable and long lasting. The hinged lid has a transparent viewing window so you can clearly see how much ice is in the storage bin. The inner ice bin is made of food-grade plastic, solid enough to handle regular scooping without chipping or staining.

As for accessories, the machine includes a plastic ice scoop and a built-in holder at the back. This ensures the scoop is always within easy reach when you need ice.

Footprint and Portability

With a footprint of 11.61 inches deep, 9.45 inches wide, and 12.99 inches high, it takes up roughly the same space as a small coffee maker. This makes it compact enough to fit under most standard cabinets and narrow enough for crowded counters.

The unit weighs 19.58 pounds. It isn’t excessively heavy, but some owners have noted that lifting it can feel a bit awkward especially for those with limited mobility. However, it has a built-in handle on top that provides portability and makes carrying it easier.

Four rubberized feet on the base ensure the appliance stays stable during operation. Even while actively producing ice, the machine stays planted and quiet with no sliding or vibration.

Setup and Installation

Getting the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker up and running is a simple task with no special tools or plumbing required.

The machine arrives well-packaged, with molded foam inserts and clear labeling to keep all parts safe during transit. There’s minimal plastic waste, and the protective film on the exterior helps prevent scratches during shipping.

Inside the box, you’ll find:

• The ice maker unit
• A user manual with setup instructions
• A plastic ice scoop
• A removable ice basket

Initial Setup Steps

Setting up the machine for the first time takes a bit longer than usual due to some extra steps required.

1. Remove all packaging and tape.
2. Place the unit on a flat, dry surface with at least 6 inches of clearance for ventilation (especially at the rear and sides).
3. Wait at least 1 hour before first use to allow for the refrigerants to settle.
4. Plug it in and fill the water reservoir with clean, filtered water.
5. Power on the unit using the control panel.
6. Run a cleaning cycle before first use, as recommended in the manual.

The manual is easy to follow, with illustrations and clear instructions for anyone unfamiliar using ice makers.

Performance and Ice Quality

Here’s what you can expect from the EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM when it comes to ice quality and how it performs day-to-day.

We’ll go through the type of ice it makes, how quickly it makes it, how much it holds, and how loud it gets in the process.

Ice Type and Texture

This EUHOMY ice maker produces genuine nugget ice: soft, chewable pellets that are far more pleasant than hard cubes or crescents. The texture is airy and slightly crunchy, compressing gently between your teeth. These pellets aren’t quite as dense or precisely formed as Sonic-style ice, but they’re noticeably better than the hollow or brittle cubes from basic countertop machines.

The nuggets are approximately 3/8″ to 1/2″ in size (about 10–13 mm) making them small enough to sip through most straws but still substantial enough to provide that satisfying chew. They are loosely packed, giving them a satisfyingly fluffy consistency that holds up well in cold drinks but tends to melt faster in room-temperature beverages.

Results for clarity and flavor neutrality depend on your water source. As the machine doesn’t include a built-in filter, unfiltered tap water may produce ice with a faint aftertaste or slight cloudiness. Using clean, filtered water results in a more neutral, clean-tasting ice, free of chemical or plastic undertones after the first few cycles.

If you’re after the “Sonic ice” experience, this machine gets very close.

Production Speed and Capacity

The EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM is marketed as being able to produce nugget ice in as little as 6 minutes. In practice, this refers to the first small batch, which is often just a few soft nuggets. It takes time for the internal cooling system to fully stabilize, so initial results may be less than what you expect.

As the machine continues to run, production becomes more consistent, and the ice bin gradually fills up.

Actual speed can vary depending on:

• Room temperature – Warmer environments lead to slower ice formation.
• Water temperature – Cold water helps the machine reach optimal performance faster.
• Ventilation – Sufficient airflow around the unit prevents overheating and improves cycle speed.
• Electrical stability – Power fluctuations (common in RVs or extension cords) can slow ice-making.

Once running efficiently, the machine can produce up to 34 pounds of ice per day. However, the ice bin fills gradually and not all at once, which is typical for countertop ice makers. It takes about 1 hour for it to produce a full bin of ice.

Noise Level During Operation

Despite having a powerful compressor and auger system, the IM‑12S‑HM ice maker runs with a noise level of less than 45dB. After turning it on, you might hear a faint gurgling as water begins circulating, but this sound quickly fades into the background. When ice begins dropping into the storage bin, the sound is brief and unobtrusive like a soft clink.

In general use, the machine emits a steady hum that blends well with ambient noise in kitchens or open-plan living spaces. It’s unlikely to interfere with normal conversations or everyday background activity, making it suitable for using in shared environments.

Ice Storage and Retention

The internal ice bin isn’t actively refrigerated, but it can hold a reasonable amount of ice before needing to be emptied or topped off. Under typical indoor conditions, the ice remains solid for a few hours, gradually melting as time passes. Melted ice isn’t wasted. The water drains into the lower reservoir and is automatically reused in the next cycle, which is good for water conservation.

Although the 1.8 lbs bin capacity is enough for several drinks at a time, those planning to serve a group or store ice for later will benefit from transferring finished batches to a freezer. This approach is common among users of countertop ice makers and helps maximize daily ice production.

Features and Functionality

The EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM is a basic machine by design, but it includes a few convenient features that make daily use easier.

User Interface and Controls

The control panel is located on the front of the unit and keeps things simple.

You’ll find:

The interface is intuitive and uncluttered, which makes it easy to use. The buttons are responsive, and the LED indicators are bright enough to be seen clearly without being distracting.

That being said, the panel doesn’t have customization options like ice size or a delay-start function. For most people, this isn’t a show stopper as the focus of this ice maker is on push-button convenience.

Notable Built-In Features

Here are some of the helpful features the IM‑12S‑HM includes:

• Self-Cleaning Mode – This cycle flushes internal tubing to help maintain ice quality.
• Auto-Shutoff Sensors – When the ice bin is full or water is low, the machine automatically pauses operation and alerts you via indicator lights.
• Recycling System – Melted ice is re-used internally, reducing water waste and refilling frequency.

Smart Features and Connectivity

This particular model does not support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any kind of smart home integration. EUHOMY does offer a separate model with Bluetooth functionality and a smartphone app but the IM‑12S‑HM keeps it traditional. This is actually a plus for those who prefer plug-and-play simplicity without the need for setup or app pairing.

Energy Efficiency

The IM‑12S‑HM uses 1 kWh for every 8 hours of operation. That’s about the same power draw as a modern LED TV running over the same period. For typical home use, this results in a modest monthly cost, especially if you only run the machine as needed rather than 24/7.

There’s no automatic power-saving mode, but the machine is easy to turn off between uses, either via the control panel or by unplugging it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Like any appliance that handles food-grade water and ice, routine cleaning is essential to keep things fresh and hygienic. Happily, the EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM makes the process easy due to its well thought out double cleaning design.

Routine Maintenance

The machine performs best when cleaned at least once weekly, especially in hard water areas. This prevents mineral buildup and keeps the ice tasting clean.

Regular care includes:

• Draining and wiping the water reservoir
• Cleaning the ice bin
• Running a cleaning cycle if needed

There’s no need for harsh cleaners. A solution of water and vinegar or a mild descaler works well.

Cleaning Process

The unit includes an auto self-cleaning function, which is activated by pressing the Ice/Clean button for 3 seconds. Once started, it cycles water through its internal tubing to flush out residue and buildup. The indicator light flashes white while the machine is in self-cleaning mode.

For deeper cleaning, the top cover is removable, making it easy to wipe down with a cloth or sponge.

The automatic cleaning cycle takes 15 minutes, and manual cleaning adds another 5–10 minutes depending on how thorough you are. It’s relatively low maintenance especially compared to cleaning traditional freezers or ice trays. And once you’ve done it once or twice, it becomes routine.

Descaler vs. Vinegar: What’s Best for Cleaning?

For regular cleanings, a mixture of water and white vinegar is often enough to break down light scale buildup and remove odors. It’s inexpensive, accessible, and eco-friendly.

However, EUHOMY also offers a branded Cleaner & Descaler, specifically formulated for use with the machine’s automatic cleaning cycle. It’s designed to remove mineral buildup more efficiently than vinegar and won’t leave a lingering scent. If your water is hard or you notice reduced ice production, using the descaler monthly can help extend your machine’s life.

Pros & Cons

Final Thoughts

If you want chewable, satisfying nugget ice without paying a premium, the EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM could be the best nugget ice maker for you. The inclusion of a folding carry handle is a rare feature to see on countertop models. This improves its portability for a range of different usage purposes such as for RVs, smaller kitchens or multi-use households.

Its ease of use and ice quality are excellent for cold drinks or small gatherings. However, its production rate may not keep up with continuous demand during larger parties or events. For individuals, couples, or casual entertainers, though, it comes highly recommended.

Compare to Similar Countertop Ice Makers

Still not sure which countertop nugget ice maker is right for you? Here we compare three popular options from budget-friendly to premium.

Who It’s Best For

EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM

Great option for small households, RV owners, or anyone looking for a compact nugget ice machine with a convenient carry handle and dependable ice output.

GE Profile Opal 2.0

A practical choice if you want restaurant-style nugget ice, app control, and the ability to refill the machine conveniently using a less hands-on approach.

Iceman RJ56-PB-V2

Suitable for casual use or smaller spaces where low-noise, reliability and occasional nugget ice are the top priorities.

FAQ: EUHOMY IM‑12S‑HM Nugget Ice Maker