Was surprised that this Ice Maker could make such a difference - Use RO water plumbed to my refrigerator and was satisfied the ice maker was doing a great job until I purchased the ClearIce40 - The ice is crystal clear and actually tastes better - Smoothies are actually better as well and less strain on hr blender. I use a oyster shucker tool with a dull edge to break up the ice and a medium / large metal measuring spoon to dig the ice out of the bin - Actually one bin capacity is just right for my Blentec blender and I just break into smaller pieces and dump it right into the blender jar - makes more than enough ice for several smoothies a day.