I understand that freezing your own block ice can take a few days in a household freezer, but I was thinking if I fill up the molds with cube ice and then water it will speed up the freeze time, but will the block quality be okay in the machine? I assume so, but just wondering if anyone has done this or will try it? thanks

It should freeze up overnight, shouldn't take days. As long as you keep the lid off and don't open/close the freezer doors alot it should be fine. Don't fill it up with cube ice to kick start the freezing, the cube ice messes with the solidity of the block and will cause the freezed block ice to be less solid and easier to break apart. Good luck!

We struggle getting ours out of the mold. What's the best method?

What type of mold are you using...plastic?

I agree....don't put ice to speed it up.....try cranking up the freezer to "Max" and then lower it when it is soild (to save on electricity). But I do have to use covers on my molds so I can stack them up in the freezer.

To take the ice out ofthe mold....you will need to temper it (let it sweat) for several minutes. You will have to anyway before you shave the ice. I use both plastic and metal molds and I do not have any problems taking it out after tempering.

Good Luck....

That is correct. It's vital for you to let the bugga sweat! =) It shaves way better!