Manitowoc Ice®, a pioneering brand for commercial ice makers, has announced a first-in-category innovation at The NAFEM Show.
NEO® with integrated water filtration is setting a new standard for undercounter ice machines. The innovative design ensures cleaner water enters the machine to improve the taste and clarity of every cube.
Ease in ownership and cost savings
“NEO once again raised the standard for undercounter ice machines while retaining its industry-pioneering performance, intelligence and sanitation. Every design detail is made with the user in mind and ensures ease in ownership and cost savings for the customer over the life of the machine,” said Cassie Johnston, product manager at Manitowoc Ice.
“Water filtration decreases scale build up on the evaporator and helps to keep the machine cleaner for longer. Over half of service-related calls on ice machines are water related and having better water going into the machine can decrease service and cleaning frequency, solving a common problem and saving costs.”
improved energy efficiency and added design
Manitowoc Ice has improved energy efficiency and added design touches for the best user experience
In addition to onboard filtration, Manitowoc Ice has improved energy efficiency and added design touches for the best user experience.
NEO with integrated water filtration uses R290 refrigerant, a naturally occurring and more environmentally friendly refrigerant with a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to more commonly used refrigerants. This increases energy efficiency, helping operators reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs.
integrated water filtration
NEO with integrated water filtration offers an updated design with a sleek, modern appearance that elevates the visual impression of this front-of-house unit.
Additionally, its technology integration and keypad updates provide visual feedback to keep the machine operating in optimal condition. The design retains a simplified foodzone with rounded corners that ensure the machine is easy to clean.
Manitowoc Ice’s LuminIce ® II growth inhibitor
The device circulates air inside the ice machine food zone over a sterilizing UV light
Select NEO models will also include Manitowoc Ice’s LuminIce ® II growth inhibitor integrated into the machine. LuminIce II is an advanced sanitation device which defends against viruses, bacteria, mold, and yeast using chemical-free ultraviolet light technology.
The device circulates air inside the ice machine food zone over a sterilizing UV light. As this treated air passes over exposed food zone components, it inhibits the growth of viruses, bacteria, yeast, and other common microorganisms, keeping machines cleaner longer and improving long-term performance.
Additional product features
- Filtration Options - The specially designed water filter comes with each NEO machine and reduces sediment, rust, and suspended particles as small as 5 microns while reducing chlorine taste and odor, microplastics, filterable cysts, and hard scale. An upgraded filter for tough water conditions is also available and can reduce sediment particles as small as 1 micron.
- Less Energy and Water – NEO with Integrated Water Filtration uses less energy and water compared to previous models. On average, there is a 25% decrease in energy consumption, 2% average decrease in water usage, and a 21% increase in 24-hour ice production1.
- Convenient Operation - The machine will count the number of ice making cycles and alert the user when it is time to change out the filter, usually around six months. The filter is easily accessible for self-replacement if desired.
