Fill the receptacle with water-select your ice cube size-press a button & in 4 minutes the ice cubes start flowing out so you're not waiting 4 hours when you need ice right away. I also have an ice maker that fits inside your refridgerator so you will also have ice-at-the-ready when you need it. And keep in mind the good health/medical benefits of ice packs for sprains & strains & swollen glands & muscle fatigue. Thank you.