Manitowoc Sotto UGP080A Undercounter Air-Cooled Ice Maker 76kg/24hr

The Manitowoc Sotto UGP080A is a self-contained, air-cooled undercounter ice maker producing up to 76kg of gourmet-style ice per 24 hours, with an integral 30kg storage bin. It is designed to sit flush within a standard undercounter cabinet, making it a practical choice for backbar installations, service counters, and any setting where space is genuinely limited. Unlike some ice machines that demand side or top clearance, the Sotto's refrigeration system is configured to allow a true built-in fit — a meaningful advantage in fitted bar and café environments.

In busy service periods the machine self-adjusts its production cycles to maintain consistent output and ice quality, which reduces the risk of running short during a rush. The gourmet ice format — typically a clear, dense cube — melts more slowly than flake or nugget ice, which is relevant for operators where drink quality and dilution rate matter. With 30kg of on-board storage, the machine can buffer production against peaks without needing a separate storage bin.

From an operational standpoint, the Sotto range offers several practical advantages:

• No top or side clearance required — suitable for tight undercounter and backbar installations
• Self-adjusting production cycles maintain ice quality without manual intervention
• Gourmet ice format reduces dilution, relevant for cocktail bars and hospitality venues
• Stainless steel construction supports hygiene standards and handles daily commercial use
• R290 refrigerant with a low global warming potential supports environmental compliance

Installation requires a mains water connection, a drain, and a standard single-phase electrical supply. Being air-cooled, it draws ambient air to reject heat, so ambient temperature and ventilation in the installation area will affect daily output — output figures are typically measured at controlled ambient and water inlet temperatures, so real-world yield can vary. The unit weighs 70kg, which is worth accounting for during installation, particularly if it needs to be manoeuvred into a fitted bar. No external condenser or refrigeration engineer is required for setup beyond standard plumbing and electrical connection.

The UGP080A is well suited to small hotels, cafés, cocktail bars, and restaurant service counters where daily ice demand falls within the machine's output range. For higher-volume sites — busy pub groups or large hotel operations with significant banqueting demand — a larger-capacity model would be worth considering. Similarly, if the installation environment runs consistently warm or has restricted airflow, it is worth discussing ventilation and siting before committing.

If you are unsure whether this machine's output matches your site's demand, or have questions about installation requirements in your particular space, the team is happy to work through the details with you before you order.