Manitowoc Ice Makers: 3 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Finding the best manitowoc ice makers requires checking specific specs for your space and needs. This guide compares 3 models to help you decide. Manitowoc offers undercounter units in various widths, producing octagon, half-dice, and nugget ice. Some models include drain pumps for flexible installation, while others rely on gravity. The top pick is the Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump, which leads for small spaces needing octagon ice and pump drainage. All picks are ranked strictly by the specifications published on the listings.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump Best overall | Small spaces needing octagon ice and pump drainage | Check price of Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump on Amazon |
| 2 | Manitowoc NEO Undercounter Half-Dice Ice Maker Best budget | High-volume clear ice production | Check price of Manitowoc NEO Undercounter Half-Dice Ice Maker on Amazon |
| 3 | Manitowoc 29-Inch Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker Best premium | High-volume nugget ice production | Check price of Manitowoc 29-Inch Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker on Amazon |
Our 3 picks
Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump
Best for: Small spaces needing octagon ice and pump drainage
- Daily Ice Production
- 52 lbs. per 24 hours
- Storage Capacity
- 25 lb.
- Ice Type
- Octagon cubes
- Form Factor
- Undercounter
- Drain Type
- Pump kit
- Features
- Drain Pump
View on Amazon: Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump Affiliate link
The Manitowoc SM-50A is an undercounter ice maker that produces 52 pounds of octagon cubes daily. It holds 25 pounds in its stainless steel bin. The unit includes a pump drain kit for locations without gravity feed drains. It measures 14.8 inches wide and 33.5 inches high. This model suits small commercial spaces needing reliable, steady ice output.
Pros
- Produces 52 lbs of ice per 24 hours
- Includes pump drain kit for flexible installation
- Durable stainless steel construction
Cons
- 25 lb storage capacity limits high-volume use
- Heavy at 114 lbs, making relocation difficult
- Smaller footprint may not fit all undercounter spaces
Good fit if
- You need a steady supply of octagon cubes
- You lack a gravity feed drain option
- You want a stainless steel build for durability
Skip if
- You require nugget ice for drinks
- You need more than 52 lbs of daily production
- You have limited undercounter height clearance
Verdict: Manitowoc SM-50A Undercounter Ice Maker is a solid choice for small businesses needing octagon cubes and flexible drainage. It fits counters where gravity drains are unavailable.
Manitowoc NEO Undercounter Half-Dice Ice Maker
Best for: High-volume clear ice production
- Daily Ice Production
- up to 137 lb per day
- Storage Capacity
- 90 lb
- Ice Type
- Half-Dice
- Form Factor
- Undercounter
- Dimensions
- 28.5 × 26 × 38.5 inches
- Weight
- 153 pounds
View on Amazon: Manitowoc NEO Undercounter Half-Dice Ice Maker Affiliate link
The Manitowoc UYF-0140A NEO produces clear half-dice ice cubes for undercounter use. It delivers up to 137 lb of ice daily with a 90 lb storage bin. The unit measures 26 inches wide and weighs 153 pounds. Electronic controls monitor full bin and service needs. This model suits users who need high-volume, clear ice for commercial or heavy home use.
Pros
- Produces clear half-dice ice cubes
- Generates up to 137 lb of ice per day
- Includes a 90 lb ice storage capacity
- Features electronic controls for monitoring
Cons
- Heavier build at 153 pounds
- Larger footprint requires significant space
- No mention of remote or app control
Good fit if
- You need high-volume ice production
- You prefer clear half-dice ice texture
- You have space for a 26-inch wide unit
Skip if
- You require nugget ice texture
- You need a portable or lightweight unit
- You want smart app connectivity
Verdict: Manitowoc NEO Half-Dice Undercounter Ice Maker is a robust option for users prioritizing production speed and ice clarity. It fits well in spaces where weight and size are not primary constraints.
Manitowoc 29-Inch Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker
Best for: High-volume nugget ice production
- Daily Ice Production
- Up to 300 lbs.
- Storage Capacity
- Up to 50 lbs.
- Ice Type
- Nugget
- Form Factor
- Undercounter
- Cooling Type
- Air-Cooled
- Dimensions
- 27.2 × 29 × 39.5 inches
View on Amazon: Manitowoc 29-Inch Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker Affiliate link
The Manitowoc UNF0300A is a 29-inch undercounter nugget ice maker designed for high-volume needs. It produces up to 300 pounds of ice daily with a 50-pound storage bin. The air-cooled system supports carbonated drinks and smoothies. Its bite-size nuggets offer excellent cooling with minimal dilution. This unit suits bars or kitchens requiring reliable, rapid ice generation.
Pros
- Produces up to 300 lbs of nugget ice daily
- Includes a 50-lb internal ice storage bin
- Air-cooled system for efficient operation
- Optimized for carbonated beverages and smoothies
Cons
- Requires 29 inches of width for installation
- Air-cooled design may be noisier than water-cooled units
- Limited to 115V electrical connection
Good fit if
- You need high-volume nugget ice for a bar
- You have 29 inches of undercounter space available
- You serve carbonated drinks or smoothies frequently
Skip if
- You require a water-cooled system for quieter operation
- You have less than 29 inches of counter width
- You need a compact under-50-lb production unit
Verdict: Manitowoc UNF0300A 29-Inch Nugget Ice Maker delivers heavy-duty nugget ice for busy bars. It fits users who need rapid production and have the required 29-inch footprint.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump | Manitowoc NEO Undercounter Half-Dice Ice Maker | Manitowoc 29-Inch Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | 52 lbs. per 24 hours | up to 137 lb per day | Up to 300 lbs. |
| Storage Capacity | 25 lb. | 90 lb | Up to 50 lbs. |
| Ice Type | Octagon cubes | Half-Dice | Nugget |
| Form Factor | Undercounter | Undercounter | Undercounter |
| Drain Type | Pump kit | not stated | not stated |
| Features | Drain Pump | not stated | not stated |
| Cooling Type | not stated | not stated | Air-Cooled |
| Dimensions | 22.8 × 14.8 × 33.5 inches | 28.5 × 26 × 38.5 inches | 27.2 × 29 × 39.5 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 153 pounds | not stated |
| Model | SM50+K00376 | UYF0140A | UNF0300A-161 |
| Color | not stated | Multicolor | Multicolor |
Manitowoc Ice Maker Picks Overview
You can choose from undercounter units that fit specific footprints. The SM-50A measures 14.8 inches wide and includes a drain pump for flexible installation. It produces octagon cubes for small spaces. The NEO model is larger at 26 inches wide and weighs 153 pounds. It generates clear half-dice ice for high-volume needs. The UNF0300A is the widest option at 29 inches. It uses air-cooling to produce nugget ice for busy bars. Each unit has distinct dimensions and ice types. You should match the size and ice shape to your counter space and usage patterns. Consider the width and height carefully before buying.
Where Manitowoc Fits Your Needs
This range covers small to large undercounter spaces. You start with the 14.8-inch SM-50A, which makes octagon ice and includes a drain pump. Next is the 26-inch NEO, a heavier unit focused on clear half-dice production. The largest option is the 29-inch UNF0300A, designed for high-volume nugget ice. All units are air-cooled and undercounter. There are no portable, countertop, or top-loading models listed. You also will not find any freestanding upright options or glass-door displays in this specific selection. Your choice depends entirely on whether you need compact octagon cubes, clear half-dice, or nugget ice.
How to Choose a Manitowoc Ice Maker
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Match Ice Type to Use
Select the ice shape that fits your service needs. The SM-50A produces octagon cubes, which are standard for general beverage service. The NEO model creates half-dice, offering clarity and slow melting for high-volume clear ice applications. If you need soft, chewable ice for sodas or smoothies, the UNF0300A generates nugget ice. Consider your menu and customer preferences when choosing between these distinct textures.
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Check Footprint Dimensions
Measure your available counter space carefully before buying. The SM-50A is compact at 14.8 inches wide, making it ideal for tight undercounter spots. The NEO model is wider at 26 inches, requiring more linear space. The UNF0300A is the largest option at 29 inches wide. Ensure your installation area can accommodate the specific width and depth of your chosen unit to avoid fitting issues.
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Consider Drainage Options
Installation flexibility depends on your drainage setup. The SM-50A includes a drain pump, allowing you to install the unit where gravity drainage is not possible. This feature is crucial for undercounter placements far from a floor drain. Other models in the lineup may rely on gravity drainage. Check the specifications for a drain pump if your location requires pumped water removal for proper installation.
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Evaluate Unit Weight
Heavier units require sturdy support structures. The NEO model weighs 153 pounds, which is significant for undercounter installation. Ensure your cabinetry or floor can support this weight without sagging or damage. The SM-50A and UNF0300A have different weight profiles. Verify the load-bearing capacity of your installation site, especially for the heavier NEO model, to ensure long-term stability and safety.
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Assess Cooling Requirements
Cooling type affects airflow and placement. The UNF0300A is air-cooled, which requires adequate ventilation space around the unit to dissipate heat effectively. Proper airflow ensures efficient operation and prevents overheating. Check the specifications for cooling type to understand ventilation needs. Ensure your installation area allows for the necessary air circulation, particularly for air-cooled models, to maintain performance and energy efficiency.
Frequently asked questions
Which Manitowoc ice maker fits the smallest counter space?
The SM-50A is the most compact option. It measures 14.8 inches wide, 22.8 inches deep, and 33.5 inches tall. This undercounter unit produces octagon ice cubes. It also includes a drain pump, allowing installation where gravity drainage is not possible. This makes it ideal for tight spaces.
What type of ice does the NEO model produce?
The NEO model produces half-dice ice. This shape offers high clarity and melts slowly, which is useful for cocktails. The unit is larger than the SM-50A, measuring 26 inches wide and 28.5 inches deep. It weighs 153 pounds, so you need a sturdy floor for support.
Is there a Manitowoc model for nugget ice?
Yes, the UNF0300A produces nugget ice. It is a 29-inch wide undercounter unit designed for high-volume needs. The machine is air-cooled and measures 39.5 inches tall. This model is suited for busy bars or environments requiring rapid production of soft, chewable ice cubes.
Do any Manitowoc undercounter models include a drain pump?
The SM-50A includes a built-in drain pump. This feature allows you to install the unit where a gravity drain is unavailable. It provides greater flexibility for placement in small businesses or kitchens. The other listed models do not list this specific feature in their specifications.
How wide is the largest Manitowoc ice maker on this list?
The largest unit is the UNF0300A, which is 29 inches wide. It also measures 27.2 inches deep and 39.5 inches tall. This footprint is significantly larger than the 14.8-inch SM-50A. You must ensure your space can accommodate this width for proper installation and airflow.
Can I install these units under a standard counter?
All three models are designed as undercounter units. However, you must check the height. The SM-50A is 33.5 inches tall. The NEO is 38.5 inches tall, and the UNF0300A is 39.5 inches tall. Standard counters are often 36 inches high, so you may need custom cabinetry for the taller models.
What is the weight of the NEO ice maker?
The NEO model weighs 153 pounds. This heavy weight indicates a robust construction suitable for high-volume production. You should ensure your flooring can support this load. The unit is also 26 inches wide, so verify that your intended location has sufficient width for installation.