The main places to buy an ice maker are big-box retailers, appliance stores, online marketplaces, and secondhand sources
You can find ice makers at Best Buy, Lowe's, Home Depot, and Walmart in the appliance section, usually near refrigerators and freezers. Specialty appliance stores carry a wider selection and staff who know the details of each model. Online, Amazon, Wayfair, and the manufacturers' own websites often have more inventory and sometimes lower prices. Secondhand options—Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, estate sales, and local appliance resellers—can save money if you're willing to inspect the unit before buying.
The choice depends on what you need: speed (big-box stores have stock today), selection (online), informed help (appliance stores), or budget (secondhand). Each route has different return policies and warranties, which matter if the unit arrives damaged or fails early.
Key Takeaways
- Big-box retailers like Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, and Walmart stock ice makers in-store and online, with same-day or next-day pickup at many locations.
- Specialty appliance stores offer smaller selections but staff who can explain the differences between models and help you choose the right capacity and type.
- Online marketplaces like Amazon and Wayfair have the widest selection and often lower prices, but shipping costs and return policies vary by seller.
- Secondhand ice makers from Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and local appliance resellers cost less but require you to inspect the unit and confirm it works before money changes hands.
- Manufacturer websites sometimes offer direct sales, factory refurbished units, and warranty details you won't find on third-party sites.
Big-box retailers: fastest if you need it soon
Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, and Walmart all stock ice makers in their appliance sections and online. Home Depot and Lowe's typically carry countertop and under-counter models from brands like Frigidaire, GE, and LG. Best Buy focuses on smaller countertop units and tends to stock premium brands. Walmart carries budget-friendly options, often house brands.
The advantage is speed: you can check stock online, reserve a unit, and pick it up the same day or next morning at most locations. If you need it delivered, these retailers offer shipping, though costs vary. Return windows are usually 30 to 90 days, depending on the store. Check the product page for the specific return policy before you buy.
Specialty appliance stores: informed staff and smaller selection
Independent appliance stores and regional chains (like Abt Electronics or local family-owned shops) carry fewer models than big-box stores, but their staff usually know the differences between brands and can explain what you're paying for. They can tell you which models are reliable, what size you actually need for your kitchen, and whether a built-in unit makes sense for your setup.
These stores often offer delivery and installation, which matters if you're buying an under-counter or built-in model that needs plumbing hookup. They may also have better warranty support and repair relationships in your area. Prices are sometimes higher than online, but the guidance can save you from buying the wrong unit. Ask about floor models or display units—they're often discounted.
Online marketplaces: widest selection, variable shipping costs
Amazon, Wayfair, Overstock, and other online retailers stock hundreds of models from every major brand. You can compare prices, read reviews, and filter by size, capacity, and features without leaving home. Prices are often lower than in-store, especially during sales events.
The trade-off is shipping: ice makers are heavy and fragile, so shipping costs are high (often $50 to $150), and delivery takes 5 to 14 days depending on your location and the seller. Check the return policy before you buy—some sellers charge restocking fees or don't cover return shipping. Amazon's standard return policy is more generous than most third-party sellers, so read the fine print. If the unit arrives damaged, photograph it and report it when ready; most retailers will replace it or refund you.
Manufacturer websites: refurbished units and direct pricing
Brands like Frigidaire, GE, LG, and Whirlpool sell directly from their websites. You'll find the full range of current models, sometimes at the same price as retailers, sometimes lower. More importantly, many manufacturers offer refurbished or open-box units at 20 to 40 percent off, with the same warranty as new.
Buying direct also means you can contact the manufacturer's customer service directly if something goes wrong, and warranty claims are straightforward. Shipping times and costs vary by brand, so check before you add to cart. Some manufacturers offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
Secondhand sources: lowest price, highest risk
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, and local appliance resellers sell used ice makers at 30 to 60 percent below retail. Estate sales and auctions sometimes have units that have barely been used. If you find the right deal, you can save hundreds of dollars.
The risk is that you have no warranty, no return option, and no way to know how the previous owner treated the machine. Before you hand over money, ask the seller to plug it in and run it for at least 15 minutes. Listen for unusual noises, check that water flows and ice actually forms, and look for rust or mineral buildup inside. If you're buying from a local appliance reseller (not an individual), ask whether they test units and offer any may provide. Never buy sight unseen or from someone who won't let you see it work.
What to compare across retailers
Price is obvious, but also check shipping cost (it's often hidden until checkout), return window, and warranty coverage. Some retailers offer extended warranties for an extra fee—worth considering if you're buying a used unit or a budget model. Look at the product page for the exact model number and cross-check it on the manufacturer's site to confirm specs and warranty details.
If you're buying online, read the reviews for that specific retailer, not just the product. A great ice maker sold by a seller with poor shipping practices will arrive damaged. If you're buying secondhand, meet in a public place and bring someone with you. Never wire money or use payment methods you can't dispute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return an ice maker if it stops working after a week?
Yes, if you're within the return window—usually 30 to 90 days depending on the retailer. Big-box stores and Amazon are most lenient. If it's a manufacturer defect, the warranty covers it, but you may need to contact the manufacturer directly or return it to the retailer. Check the return policy before you buy.
Is it worth buying a refurbished ice maker from the manufacturer?
Yes, if the warranty is the same as new. Refurbished units are tested and often come with a full one-year warranty. They cost 20 to 40 percent less than new. Avoid refurbished units sold by third-party sellers unless they clearly state the warranty length and condition.
What's the difference between buying in-store and online from the same retailer?
Price is usually the same, but in-store you can see the unit and take it home today. Online you get more selection and sometimes free shipping. If you need it when ready, go in-store. If you want to compare models, order online and pick up in-store if that option is available.
Should I buy from a local appliance store or a big-box retailer?
Local stores offer informed information and often better installation support for built-in models. Big-box stores have lower prices and faster checkout. If you know exactly what you want, big-box is fine. If you're unsure about size or type, a local store's guidance is worth the slightly higher price.
What should I inspect if I'm buying secondhand?
Plug it in and run it for 15 minutes. Check that water flows, ice forms, and there are no strange noises. Look inside for rust, mineral deposits, or mold. Ask how long the previous owner had it and why they're selling. Never buy without seeing it work first.