Manitowoc undercounter ice machines (primarily the NEO® series) are compact, self-contained commercial units designed to fit under counters or in tight spaces. They combine the ice maker and storage bin in one cabinet, making them ideal for bars, cafés, coffee shops, restaurants, offices, break rooms, stadium suites, and other small-to-medium volume applications.
Key Features of the NEO Undercounter Line
- Front ventilation (air in/out from the front) — no side clearance needed for airflow in most models, ideal for under-counter installs.
- Forward-sliding storage bin for easy access to refrigeration components without moving the whole unit.
- Intelligent controls with indicators for power, delay (4/12/24-hour production pause), clean cycle, full bin, and service.
- AlphaSan® antimicrobial protection on key internal parts + optional LuminIce® growth inhibitor to reduce bacteria/yeast and extend cleaning intervals.
- Sealed food zone with removable water trough, distribution tube, and damper for easier cleaning.
- ENERGY STAR® qualified models available (many use less water and energy than older designs).
- Stainless steel exterior; adjustable legs (typically 6″).
- Common refrigerants: R290 (newer/low-GWP models) or R-404A on some.
- Typical warranty: 3 years parts & labor on the ice maker; 5 years on the evaporator (parts & labor in many cases); 5 years parts / 3 years labor on the compressor.
Popular Sizes and Approximate Capacities
Production figures are approximate maximums at 70°F air / 50°F water (AHRI-certified rates are lower at 90°F/70°F conditions). Storage is application capacity.
| Width | Example Models | Daily Production (approx.) | Storage Bin | Height (with legs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~15–20″ | UCP0050A, UDP/UDE 0065A, UDP/UDE 0080A | 50–110 lbs | 25–31 lbs | ~33–36″ | Compact; some with built-in filter or gourmet/octagon cubes |
| 26″ | UDP/UYP/UDF 0140, 0190, 0240 series | 130–250 lbs | 80–90 lbs | 38.5″ | Most popular size range |
| 30″ | UDP/UYP/UDF 0310 series | ~280–330 lbs | ~100–119 lbs | 38.5″ | Highest undercounter production |
Ice types available:
- Dice (full cube, ~⅞” × ⅞” × ⅞”) — good for soft drinks and general use.
- Half-dice (narrower) — often preferred for mixed drinks as it packs denser.
- Gourmet / CrystalCraft / square cubes — clearer, slower-melting premium cubes (e.g., UCP0050A or USP series).
- Flake and nugget undercounter models also exist (e.g., UFF/UFP and UNF/UNP series) for soft, chewable ice used in healthcare, blended drinks, or food displays.
Other Notes
- Most are air-cooled and self-contained (plug-and-play with water supply and drain). Water-cooled versions exist for some larger models.
- Clearances: typically 0″ top, ~2″ sides, and more at the rear for utilities.
- Newer models emphasize lower energy/water use and easier maintenance compared with older Manitowoc undercounter lines.
- Pricing varies widely by model, options, and dealer (often $2,500–$5,000+ range for common NEO cubers before tax/shipping/installation; check current quotes).
For the latest models, exact AHRI production rates, cut sheets, or local availability, check the official Manitowoc Ice site (manitowocice.com) or authorized distributors. If you need recommendations for a specific daily volume, ice type, width constraint, or application (bar vs. office, etc.), provide more details and I can narrow it down further.