COMMERCIAL DISHWASHER BUYING GUIDE

If you’re here, I’m guessing a commercial dishwasher is on your radar. Maybe you’ve started researching and feel a little stuck, or you’re just looking for some straightforward advice. Either way, you’ve come to the right place.

In this short but effective guide, I’ll break it all down and tell you how to buy a commercial dishwasher for your business kitchen. Keep reading!

Step One: Know Your Dishwashing Needs

First things first, what’s your dishwashing workload like? If your establishment serves hundreds or thousands of diners daily, a tiny undercounter model probably won’t cut it. Think about:

• Volume: How many dishes, glasses, and utensils are you washing per hour?
  
  
• Space: What’s your kitchen layout like? A large conveyor dishwasher might be great for high capacity, but it’s useless if you don’t have room for it.
  
  
• Type of Dishes: If you’re washing delicate wine glasses or oversized pots and pans, you’ll need something designed to handle those without damage or hassle.

In my experience, assessing these factors early on helps narrow down your options quickly. No point falling in love with a shiny, high-end machine only to realize it doesn’t fit in your kitchen.

Step Two: Understand the Different Types of Commercial Dishwashers

This is where things can get confusing. There are several types, each designed for specific needs. Let me break them down:

1.   Undercounter Dishwashers

Undercounter Dishwashers are the compact multitaskers. Ideal for smaller cafes or bars, they handle light to moderate loads and fit snugly under countertops. If you’re short on space, this might be your go-to.
These are lifesavers if you run a cozy establishment, but they’re not built for high-volume cleaning.

2.   Door-Type Dishwashers

Door Type Dishwashers are best for mid-sized kitchens. They handle larger loads than undercounter models and often have a quick cycle time.
If your business has peak rush hours, a door-type model can help keep the dishwashing bottleneck in check.

3.   Conveyor Dishwashers

If you’re running a busy restaurant or cafeteria, this is your beast. Conveyor Dishwasher clean hundreds of dishes per hour and are perfect for high-volume operations.
I would suggest only investing in one if you have the space and a high enough dish load to justify it. Otherwise, it’s overkill.

4.   Glasswashers

Glasswashers are specially designed for bars and pubs, these focus on gently cleaning glassware without leaving streaks.
If you’re washing more glasses than plates, a dedicated glasswasher can be a game-changer for you.

Step Three: Look at Features That Matter

Not all dishwashers are created equal, and the bells and whistles can make a big difference. Here’s what to look for:

• Cycle Speed: Quick cycles are essential during peak hours. Look for machines with adjustable cycle times to match your needs.
  
  
• Energy Efficiency: I always recommend energy-efficient models because they are worth the investment. They save you money on utility bills in the long run and are better for the environment.
  
  
• Water Consumption: Check how much water the machine uses per cycle. A high water usage rate can drive up costs over time.
  
  
• Sanitation Standards: Some models come with high-temperature sanitizing options or chemical sanitizers to meet health codes effortlessly.
  
  
• Ease of Maintenance: We all are aware that nobody has time for a dishwasher machine that constantly breaks down. Look for models with self-cleaning features or easily replaceable parts.

Step Four: Set a Budget (A Realistic One)

Let’s discuss money. A good commercial dishwasher is, obviously, not cheap, but it’s an investment in your business. Prices can range from a few thousand dollars for a basic model to tens of thousands for high-capacity machines.

Here’s my suggestion:

Don’t just think about the upfront cost. Factor in long-term savings from energy efficiency, water usage, and durability. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront pays off down the road.

Step Five: Think About Installation and Support

Finally, don’t forget about the logistics. Some machines require professional installation, and you’ll need to account for water, electricity, and drainage setup. Also, check the warranty and service options.

Look, a solid warranty and access to local support can save you a lot of headaches. Trust me, the last thing you want is a broken dishwasher during a dinner rush with no technician in sight.

Top Recommendations:

1.    Empero Conveyor Dishwasher Drying Tunnel

The price is reasonable for what you’re getting, and there are a couple of sweet perks—free delivery, for one. Additionally, if you’re in a rush, it’s usually stocked and can get to you in 2 to 3 days. That’s fast, especially when you’re handling everything else.

If I were in your shoes, I’d go for it. It’s reliable, quick, and takes a big load off your plate.

2.   Empero Undercounter Dishwasher

Now, if you’re working with more limited space but still need something reliable, the Empero Undercounter Dishwasher has all the same perks. It’s small, efficient, and won’t take up much room in your kitchen. It’s also got that free delivery and a 2 to 3-day delivery time if you’re in a pinch. So, whether you’re looking for something big or compact, you’re covered with these options.

Wrapping Up:

No one likes dealing with a never-ending pile of dirty dishes. It’s the kind of thing every business owner wants to avoid. If the idea of a commercial dishwasher has been floating around in your mind, you’re already heading in the right direction. Hopefully, this guide has helped you connect the dots and given you a clear sense of what your first step should be. If you’ve read this far, congratulations—you’re already halfway there! Now it’s time to take the next step and make your decision.

And don’t forget to check out my recommendations! I’ve spent hours narrowing down the best options to save you time and make your choice that much easier. Happy shopping!