Selecting the right size commercial dishwasher for your business is a crucial decision that impacts your kitchen’s efficiency, hygiene, and overall customer satisfaction. Whether you’re running a bustling restaurant, a cozy café, or a large catering service, the size of your dishwasher can make or break your operation. Here’s a short guide to help you choose the perfect fit.
Every business has unique needs based on its size, customer volume, and type of service. Math is the answer. Seats, Turns, Wares, and Space will help you determine the right machine for your needs. Start by assessing your daily dishwashing load. Consider the following factors:
How Many Seats/Turns: This figure is crucial. Estimate the number of people that enter your establishment. The number of meals you serve daily translates to the number of dishes you need to clean.
Dish Types: Think about the types of dishes and utensils you use. Plates, glasses, cutlery, and 18x26” sheet pans all have different washing requirements. Consider how many pieces are part of each place setting.
Peak Times: Identify your busiest times of the day and the corresponding dishwashing load during these periods. Calculate the total number of pieces during your busiest hour.
Did You Know?
Racks Per Hour (RPH): Each machine provides a maximum RPH. To translate the NSF-rated RPH to real-life RPH, consider that 70% of the NSF-rated RPH is a more accurate representation due to the combination of different dish types, practical usage, and labour conditions.
Example: Using a 100 Person LTC
Total Dishracks per Meal Service: 40 (china/glassware) + 7 (flatware) + 30 (miscellaneous) = 77 Racks per meal service
RPH Ratings: Based on RPH ratings, a door type machine would be a great fit for this volume.
By combining your real-world factors, you can better understand your dishwashing needs and choose the type of dishwasher that perfectly fits your business. The figures are undeniable because they are your figures after all.
Commercial dishwashers come in various types, each designed for different volumes and types of washing:
Once you’ve identified the type of dishwasher, consider its capacity and speed:
Evaluate the available space in your kitchen. Measure the area where the dishwasher will be installed, including any height restrictions. Ensure there’s enough room for loading and unloading dishes efficiently. The layout should allow for smooth workflow, minimizing the distance between the dishwasher and storage areas.
Commercial dishwashers can be resource intensive. Opt for models with energy-saving features and low water consumption. Energy-efficient dishwashers not only reduce your utility bills but also align with sustainable business practices.
Invest in a dishwasher known for its durability and ease of maintenance. Look for models with stainless steel construction and reliable components. Regular maintenance is essential, so choose a machine with accessible parts and straightforward cleaning procedures.
Choosing between a low temperature (low temp) and high temperature (high temp) dishwasher can significantly enhance your kitchen's efficiency and hygiene. Low temp dishwashers are ideal for budget-conscious businesses, offering a lower upfront cost and reduced energy consumption. They use chemical sanitizers to ensure sparkling clean dishes at temperatures around 120-140°F. This makes them perfect for smaller establishments or those with limited utility resources, as they are easier to install and maintain.
On the other hand, high temp dishwashers are a powerhouse for bustling kitchens, providing superior sanitization with temperatures reaching 180°F. These machines eliminate the need for chemical sanitizers, ensuring a residue-free, sparkling finish. High temp dishwashers also boast rapid drying times, allowing you to turn around large volumes of dishes quickly, making them ideal for high-traffic restaurants and catering services. The investment in a high temp dishwasher pays off with unmatched cleanliness, efficiency, and a streamlined workflow.
Whether you prioritize cost-efficiency and ease of maintenance with a low temp model or seek the premium performance and rapid turnover of a high temp machine, both options offer unique benefits that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your business.
Another important factor to consider is the operating principle of your dishwasher:
Finally, balance your needs with your budget. While larger, more advanced models come with a higher price tag, they can offer long-term savings through efficiency and durability. Consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and operational costs, rather than just the initial purchase price.
Labour Impact Analysis
Choosing an efficient dishwasher not only impacts your kitchen's productivity but also your labour costs. Ideally, dishwashing should be completed within 1-2 hours after meal service. If your employees spend additional time in the dish pit, it can significantly affect your annual labour expenses.
Example Calculation:
Annual additional labour cost per employee:
1 hour × 7 days/week × 52 weeks/year ×$17/hour = $6,188
For each employee, this additional hour per meal service can add up to $6,188 annually. Investing in a more efficient dishwasher can help reduce this extra time, save on labour costs or redistribute those labour hours to cash generating responsibilities.
Selecting the right commercial dishwasher is a decision that requires careful consideration of your business’s specific needs, space, and budget. By understanding the different types of dishwashers and evaluating factors like capacity, efficiency, and maintenance, you can make an informed choice that enhances your kitchen’s productivity and keeps your customers satisfied.
At Champion Moyer Diebel Canada, we offer several different models of dishwashers in each category, ensuring your needs are specifically met. In addition, all of our machines are made in North America, guaranteeing you will always have access to any support you need.
Making this investment wisely will make your dishwasher become a reliable backbone of your kitchen operations, ensuring sparkling clean dishes and a smooth workflow for years to come.
