How to Choose a Commercial Dishwasher: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right commercial dishwasher for a business can be challenging, especially with so many options available. However, selecting the right dishwasher can significantly affect a restaurant's efficiency and productivity. In this article, readers will find everything they need to know about choosing the best commercial dishwasher for their business.

When selecting a commercial dishwasher, it is essential to consider the type of restaurant and the volume of dishes used by each guest. Casual dining restaurants have different dishwashing needs than fine dining establishments. Additionally, several types of commercial dishwashers are available, including under counter, hood, rack, conveyor, and flight type. Each type has its own unique features and benefits.

Other factors to consider when choosing a commercial dishwasher include capacity, cleaning speed, ease of use, energy efficiency, and cost. This article will provide readers with a comprehensive guide to help them make an informed decision when selecting the best commercial dishwasher for their business.

Dishwasher Types

When choosing a commercial dishwasher, it is important to consider the different types available. There are four main types of commercial dishwashers: Undercounter Dishwashers, Door Type Dishwashers, Conveyor Dishwashers, and Flight Type Dishwashers. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, and selecting the right one for your business can help improve efficiency and productivity in the kitchen.

Undercounter Dishwashers

Undercounter Dishwashers are compact units that can process up to 35 racks per hour. These dishwashers are typically used in small operations like diners, bars, cafes, and churches. They are also popular in kitchens where space is limited. Undercounter dishwashers are available in both high and low-temperature models, and they typically use between .5 to 2 gallons of water per rack. These dishwashers are easy to install and operate, making them a great choice for businesses with limited kitchen staff.

Door Type Dishwashers

Door Type Dishwashers are larger than under-counter dishwashers and can process up to 175 racks per hour. These dishwashers are typically used in larger operations like schools, hospitals, and hotels. Door-type dishwashers are available in single and double-rack models and can be either high or low temperature. These dishwashers are designed for heavy use and are built to last, making them a great choice for businesses that need a reliable and efficient dishwasher.

Conveyor Dishwashers

Conveyor Dishwashers are designed for high-volume operations that require a constant flow of clean dishes. These dishwashers can process up to 700 racks per hour, making them ideal for large restaurants, banquet halls, and catering companies. Conveyor dishwashers are available in both high and low-temperature models, and they typically use between .35 to 1.2 gallons of water per rack. These dishwashers are highly efficient and can help improve productivity in the kitchen.

Flight Type Dishwashers

Flight Type Dishwashers are the largest type of commercial dishwasher and are designed for extremely high-volume operations. These dishwashers can process up to 20,000 dishes per hour and are typically used in large-scale food production facilities like hospitals and prisons. Flight-type dishwashers are available in both high and low-temperature models, and they use a conveyor system to move dishes through the machine. These dishwashers are highly efficient and can help improve productivity in the kitchen, but they are also the most expensive type of commercial dishwasher.

Capacity and Size

When choosing a commercial dishwasher, it is important to consider the size and capacity of the machine. The size of the dishwasher will depend on the amount of space available in the kitchen and the number of dishes that need to be washed.

As a general rule, for every 100 meals served, approximately 35 racks of dishes will need to be washed. It is important to choose a dishwasher that can handle the volume of dishes that will be generated by the operation.

Commercial dishwashers come in a variety of sizes, from under-counter models to large conveyor belt machines. Undercounter dishwashers are ideal for smaller operations with limited space, while larger operations may require a conveyor belt machine that can handle hundreds of racks per day.

It is important to consider the dishwasher's capacity when purchasing. A commercial dishwasher can typically process between 30 to 350 dish and flatware racks every day. This makes them great for localized cleaning of dishes and flatware.

When selecting a dishwasher, it is important to consider the type of racks that will be used. Glass racks and dish racks come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it is important to choose the proper racks for the operation. Resources covering the types of glass racks and a glass rack selection tool will help ensure you get the proper racks for your operation.

Wash Cycle Options

Commercial dishwashers come with different wash cycle options that can affect the machine's cleaning performance, energy efficiency, and water consumption. Understanding the different wash cycle options can help you choose the best dishwasher for your needs.

Here are some common wash cycle options:

• Normal Wash: This cycle is designed for the everyday cleaning of moderately soiled dishes. It typically runs for 2-3 minutes and uses hot water and detergent to remove food residue and stains.
• Heavy Wash: This cycle is designed for heavily soiled dishes and tough stains. It typically runs for 4-5 minutes and uses hotter water and more detergent to achieve a deeper clean.
• Rinse Only: This cycle is designed for quick rinsing of dishes that will be washed later. It typically runs for 1-2 minutes and uses cold water to remove any loose debris or leftover food.
• Sanitize: This cycle is designed to kill bacteria and other microorganisms in dishes. It typically runs for 1-2 minutes and uses very hot water or chemicals to achieve a high level of sanitation.
• Delay Start: This option allows you to program the dishwasher to start at a later time, which can help you save energy and water during off-peak hours.

Commercial dishwashers also offer additional wash cycle options, such as gentle, quick, and eco-wash options. Choosing a dishwasher that offers wash cycle options that meet your specific needs and requirements is important.

Energy Efficiency

When choosing a commercial dishwasher, energy efficiency is an important factor to consider. Not only does an energy-efficient dishwasher help reduce your energy bills, but it also reduces your carbon footprint. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating the energy efficiency of a commercial dishwasher:

• ENERGY STAR Certification: Look for dishwashers that have been certified by ENERGY STAR. These dishwashers meet strict energy efficiency standards and can save you money on energy bills in the long run.
• High-Temperature vs. Low-Temperature: There are two main types of commercial dishwashers: high-temperature and low-temperature. High-temperature dishwashers use heat to sanitize dishes, while low-temperature dishwashers use chemicals. High-temperature dishwashers are generally more energy-efficient because they use less water and energy to heat the water.
• Idle Energy Rate: The idle energy rate is the amount of energy a dishwasher uses when it's not actively washing dishes. Look for dishwashers with a low idle energy rate to reduce energy waste.
• Water Consumption: Dishwashers that use less water are generally more energy-efficient. Look for dishwashers with a low gallons per rack (GPR) rating.

By considering these factors, you can choose a commercial dishwasher that is both energy-efficient and cost-effective. Not only will you save money on energy bills, but you'll also be doing your part to reduce your business's carbon footprint.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

When choosing a commercial dishwasher, it is essential to consider how easy it is to use and maintain. A dishwasher that is difficult to operate or requires extensive maintenance can be frustrating and costly in the long run. Here are some factors to consider:

• Programmable Cycles: Look for a dishwasher with programmable cycles that can be easily customized to meet your specific needs. This can save time and improve efficiency.
• Corrosion-resistant Parts: Choose a dishwasher with corrosion-resistant parts like stainless steel to ensure durability and longevity.
• Energy Efficiency: An energy-efficient dishwasher can save money on utility bills and reduce environmental impact.
• User-friendly Controls: The controls should be easy to understand and operate, even for employees who are not familiar with the dishwasher.

In addition to ease of use, it is also essential to consider maintenance requirements. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Service and Repair: Choose a dishwasher from a reputable manufacturer with a reliable service and repair network. This can help minimize downtime and reduce repair costs.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Look for a dishwasher that is easy to clean and maintain. This can help extend the life of the dishwasher and ensure optimal performance.
• Replacement Parts: Make sure that replacement parts are readily available and reasonably priced. This can help minimize repair costs and reduce downtime.

By considering ease of use and maintenance when choosing a commercial dishwasher, you can ensure that you select a unit that is efficient, reliable, and cost-effective in the long run.

Cost Considerations

When choosing a commercial dishwasher, the cost is an important factor to consider. However, it's important to look beyond the initial purchase price and consider the long-term running costs.

Here are some cost considerations to keep in mind:

• Electricity and Water Usage: Commercial dishwashers can use a lot of electricity and water. Look for models with energy-efficient features and low water usage to save on utility costs.
• Detergent and Chemical Costs: Some commercial dishwashers require specific types of detergents and chemicals, which can be expensive. Make sure to factor in these ongoing costs when making your decision.
• Maintenance and Repair Costs: Like any piece of equipment, commercial dishwashers require regular maintenance and may need repairs from time to time. Look for models with a good warranty and consider the cost of replacement parts when making your decision.

It's also important to consider the capacity of the dishwasher and how it will fit into your kitchen workflow. A larger capacity dishwasher may be more expensive upfront, but it can save time and labor costs in the long run by allowing for more dishes to be cleaned at once.

Ultimately, when choosing a commercial dishwasher, it's important to find the right balance between cost and performance to meet the needs of your business.

Conclusion

Choosing the right commercial dishwasher is important for any business that wants to maintain a clean and efficient kitchen. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the best fit for your specific needs.

When selecting a commercial dishwasher, it's important to consider factors such as the size of your kitchen, the number of dishes you need to wash, and the level of automation you require. Additionally, you should take into account the cost of the machine, as well as its energy and water usage.

Pass-through and under-counter dishwashers are ideal for smaller kitchens with limited space, while rack dishwashers are better suited for larger kitchens with high-volume dishwashing needs. Hood-type dishwashers offer a balance between capacity and space efficiency, making them a good choice for many businesses.

Ultimately, the decision of which commercial dishwasher to purchase will depend on your specific needs and budget. By carefully considering all the factors involved, you can make an informed decision that will help you maintain a clean and efficient kitchen for years.

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