Wet ice is the way to go if you can. I use my U-Line for storing bagged ice (liquor ice) instead of that cloudy stuff it makes. The wet ice never sticks together and is clear and tasteless. But there is a little more maintenance to keep the scum from building up. Ice machine cleaner is non-toxic and biodegradable. As the former Scotsman distributor for SC, I'd recommend keeping a bottle on hand and follow manufactures instructions. A good water filter is also a must have for any wet ice maker. They typically use more energy and a lot more water; the ice is always melting and water, along with reverse cycling, is use to harvest the ice. The waste water will also have a higher mineral content; it may look pure, but don't think it's suitable for batteries or drinking.
The Kenmore is a Whirlpool. The ice volume is controlled by a thermostat and a timer. When the unit is cold enough, the t-stat kicks in the timer. After a time, the ice is harvested and the process repeats.
1. When replacing the head, make sure the capillary tube remains in place. Moving it even a bit will directly impact ice making time.
2. Making sure the condenser is clean and the unit is well ventilated will maximize production. I use a switchable 150CFM AC blower to cool the unit since it's installed in a cabinet with little other means of cool air.
3. And as stated, it needs defrosting or it will just run all the time and get ever warmer.
When my U-Line bites the bullet I'd be inclined to go to a real ice maker. But I don't fish, so a bag ice or two a month is pretty cheap.
