What Size Commercial Dishwasher Do I Need? A Comprehensive Guide

If you are starting a restaurant, cafeteria, or any other food service business, you will need a commercial dishwasher to keep up with the demand for clean dishes. However, choosing the right size dishwasher can be a daunting task. Selecting a dishwasher that can handle your daily dishwashing needs without overloading the machine or wasting energy and water is essential.

In this article, you will find everything you need to know about choosing the right size commercial dishwasher for your business. From calculating the number of racks you need per hour to understanding the different types of dishwashers available, we will guide you through the process step by step. By the end of this article, you will have the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision and purchase the perfect dishwasher for your business.

Factors to Consider

Several factors must be considered when determining the size of commercial dishwashers needed for a business. These include the capacity required, the type of dishwasher, and the space available.

Capacity

The capacity of a dishwasher is determined by the number of dishes it can wash in a given time period. This is typically measured in racks per hour. The number of racks per hour needed will depend on the volume of dishes used by each guest and the number of times a table is turned over in a day. Casual dining restaurants may require a lower-capacity dishwasher than fine dining restaurants.

Type of Dishwasher

There are several types of commercial dishwashers to choose from, including door type, conveyor, and under-the-counter. Door-type dishwashers are the most common choice for commercial kitchens. Conveyor dishwashers are large, powerful, and designed for high-volume operations. Undercounter dishwashers are smaller and more compact, making them ideal for smaller restaurants or bars with limited space.

Space Available

The amount of space available in the kitchen will also play a role in determining the size of the dishwasher needed. Undercounter dishwashers are ideal for smaller kitchens with limited space. Door-type and conveyor dishwashers require more space and are typically used in larger kitchens with more room for equipment.

Types of Commercial Dishwashers

Undercounter Dishwashers

Undercounter dishwashers are compact units that can process up to 35 racks per hour. They are typically used in small restaurants, cafes, and bars. These dishwashers use between .5 to 2 gallons of water per rack and can be installed under a counter or a sink. Undercounter dishwashers are available in high and low-temperature designs and are easy to operate and maintain.

Door-Type Dishwashers

If the output of an under-counter dishwasher is insufficient, then a door-type dishwasher is the next step up. These versatile commercial dishwashers are a staple in many restaurants. They boast a minimal footprint and can be installed in just about any ware washing station. Door-type dishwashers can process between 35 to 60 racks per hour, making them ideal for small to medium-sized operations.

Conveyor Dishwashers

Conveyor dishwashers are the largest commercial dishwashers available. Due to their size, they are generally very powerful washers. Some conveyor dishwashers can clean up to 1000 racks a day, making them ideal for kitchens with a lot of dishes and glassware passing through. These dishwashers have a conveyor belt that moves dishes through the machine, and they can be customized to fit the kitchen's specific needs. In conclusion, choosing the right commercial dishwasher depends on the size and needs of the operation. Undercounter dishwashers are ideal for small restaurants, cafes, and bars, while door-type dishwashers are great for small to medium-sized operations. Conveyor dishwashers are best suited for large operations with high volumes of dishes and glassware.

Sizing a Commercial Dishwasher

Calculating Capacity Needs

When it comes to choosing the right size commercial dishwasher, it is important to consider your capacity needs. As a general rule, for every 100 meals served, you will generate approximately 35 racks of dishes to be washed. This means that you will need a dishwasher with the capacity to handle this volume of dishes.

Measuring Available Space

Another important factor to consider when sizing a commercial dishwasher is the available space in your kitchen. Before purchasing a dishwasher, measuring the space where it will be placed is important. This will help you determine the appropriate size of the dishwasher that will fit in the space.

Determining Water and Electrical Requirements

Commercial dishwashers require significant water and electrical power to operate efficiently. It is important to ensure that your kitchen has the appropriate water and electrical supply to accommodate the dishwasher you choose. You should also consider the type of dishwasher you need, as different types of dishwashers have different water and electrical requirements. In summary, when sizing a commercial dishwasher, it is important to consider your capacity needs, available space, and water and electrical requirements. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a dishwasher that will meet the needs of your business and help you efficiently wash dishes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right size commercial dishwasher is crucial for any food service operation. It can help save time, money, and energy in the long run. Based on the research, it is recommended to consider the following factors when choosing the size of your commercial dishwasher:

• Number of meals served per day
• Type of dishes and glassware used
• Available space in the kitchen
• Budget

A compact dishwasher with a 24-inch width and 30 racks per hour capacity may be sufficient for smaller operations. A conveyor dishwasher with a 44-inch width and 350 racks per hour capacity may be necessary for larger operations.

Doing proper research, reading reviews, and consulting with experts before making a final decision is essential. Remember that investing in a high-quality commercial dishwasher can help improve efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction in the long run.

Choosing the right size commercial dishwasher can be a daunting task, but carefully considering the above factors can be a straightforward process. By selecting the right size dishwasher, food service operators can ensure that their dishes and glassware are cleaned effectively and efficiently, resulting in a satisfied customer base and a successful business.

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