We love our Opal. It makes ice FAST! Once you get it setup and through the initial cleaning phase it gets after it. The bin was full probably within an hour. We always try to refill the basin with at least a cup full or two of water when we get some out. Seems to avoid the awful sounds that so many people post about. May buy the side tank. Not sure yet. Haven't had a huge need for it yet other than convenience.