Specifications:

Do all ice makers produce the same type of ice?
No, there are several varieties of ice shapes and consistencies depending on which unit you purchase. Clear ice is restaurant-quality, gourmet ice whose impurities have been removed so the cubes do not have the "cloudy" appearance of regular ice. This ice is completely odorless and tasteless, however, clear ice makers are usually more expensive. Ice may be produced in a variety of shapes, including actual cubes, cylinders, shot glass and crescents. Cylindrical ice is rounded and often has an indentation in the top and a rounded out bottom. Crescent ice cubes are similar to what many ice makers in refrigerators make, long with flat tops and round bottoms and resemble the shape of a crescent moon. Ice may also be produced in whole cubes, crushed or flake style.

Are built-in ice makers designed for outdoor use?
If you wish to install an ice maker outdoors you should purchase a unit that includes an “outdoor use” designation from the manufacturer. An ice maker designed for outdoor use will include additional insulation throughout the unit as well as better shielding of the electronic components from the elements. The additional insulation will allow the unit to produce ice without overworking the internal compressor as the unit will be located in what is typically a warmer outdoor environment. You will still need to allow for drainage of the unit as you would with an indoor model. Should you choose to install an indoor ice maker in an outdoor environment you run the risk of shortening the unit’s overall lifespan as the internal compressor will be required to overcompensate for the lack of additional insulation. You will also run the risk of invalidating the warranty for your unit since indoor rated models are not designed for outdoor use.