Description
How it Works
To use Meltdown, simply slide the top off, place the ice cylinder within, and replace the cover. Due to the weight and conduction of the solid aluminum design, Meltdown begins the ice ball-making process immediately.
As Meltdown makes an ice ball, meltwater is channeled down the sides of the device along four cascading grooves designed into the sidewall.
In roughly a minute (assuming the device is room temperature), you’ll have a beautiful spherical ice ball that’s ready for your cocktail.
The runoff water is captured in Meltdown’s CatchAll Base, from which you can pour it away before making another ice ball. Because aluminum holds the cold, you may want to let Meltdown warm some on its own or run it under warm water before making additional ice balls.
Pinless Design
Most ice ball presses use pins that guide the cover down the press. Pins offer two potential flaws. First, pins can cause “chattering” as the top of the press descends. This is because the ice does not melt uniformly, and if the pins are not perfectly aligned, the top of the press catches on the pins. Second, If you ever drop your ice ball press, these pins are likely to get bent or be damaged as they are the design’s weak point.
Meltdown features a pinless design, in which the cover rides in grooves built into the Meltdown base. The Meltdown design consists of three pieces of solid aluminum that guide itself for assured alignment and protects your investment from chattering or accidental damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size ice balls does the Meltdown Chubby make?
The press makes 2.5 inch diameter ice spheres
How often do I need to clean my Meltdown ice ball press?
It is a matter of preference. Copper will tarnish over time when exposed to oxygen and humid air. Many owners of the Meltdown prefer the authentic tarnished look that comes with age. When you want to restore the shine to new, simply follow the cleaning instructions on this site.
How do I make consecutive ice balls on the Meltdown ice ball press?
The Meltdown works best when it is at room temperature. When making consecutive ice balls, simply run the entire Meltdown press under warm water for 15-30 seconds. You are now ready to make your next ice ball.
Can I make multiple Meltdown ice balls ahead of an event?
Yes, you can pre-make and freeze ice balls from your Meltdown ice ball press, so they’re ready whenever you need them.
My Meltdown “locks up” when I make an ice ball. How do I avoid this?
This may occasionally occur if you leave the Meltdown cover in place after the ice ball has been formed because melted water can produce a vacuum seal. But thanks to the vents in Meltdown covers, you can avoid “lockup” by removing the cover as soon as it completes its descent and reaches the drain base.
Do you recommend distilled water or another type of water?
Distilled and “purified “ water (produced through reverse osmosis) can actually deliver substandard results. Our recommendation is to try using your tap water first. If that doesn’t create the clarity or taste you desire, we suggest bottled spring water, available at most grocery and convenience stores.
How do I use the Vamoose clear ice device?
Pour tap water or bottled spring water into the Vamoose to the fill line and then place it in the freezer. When ready to make your ice ball, remove the ice from the Vamoose device and the silicone clarity cup. Let it sit for 3–5 minutes, allowing the ice to acclimate before placing it into the Meltdown. The ice will become a little wet on the outside, which prevents thermal shock that can cause fractures in the surface of the ice ball. For best results, use the ice ball within 24 hours of freezing and tongs to transfer it from the Vamoose to the Meltdown press.
