Running a commercial kitchen, whether it’s a small café or a large-scale restaurant, means constantly juggling multiple tasks. Among the most crucial is ensuring the cleanliness of your dishes and utensils, as this directly impacts customer satisfaction and health compliance. One of the unsung heroes in any kitchen is the commercial dishwasher. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your business?
Think of your dishwasher like the heart of your kitchen; it keeps things flowing smoothly. If it breaks down or doesn’t perform well, the whole system comes to a halt. Choosing the right commercial dishwasher isn’t just about getting dishes clean—it’s about efficiency, cost-saving, and ensuring the longevity of your equipment.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of commercial dishwashers, what features to look for, and how to pick the best one for your business.
1. What are Commercial Dishwashers?
A commercial dishwasher is a high-capacity dishwashing machine used in restaurants, hotels, and other food service establishments to clean large volumes of dishes, glassware, and utensils efficiently. Unlike residential dishwashers, commercial dishwashers are designed to handle continuous usage and heavy loads, often completing cycles in just a few minutes.
2. Types of Commercial Dishwashers
Before diving into brands and features, it is essential to understand the various types of commercial dishwashers available in the market:
Undercounter Dishwashers
Undercounter dishwashers are compact and space-efficient, making them ideal for small restaurants, cafés, or bars. They resemble residential dishwashers but are more robust, with quicker cycle times and higher temperature cleaning.
Advantages
- Compact and space-saving.
- Lower water and energy consumption.
- Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses.
Limitations
- Limited capacity; may not be suitable for high-volume kitchens.
- Longer cleaning cycles compared to larger models.
Door-Type Dishwashers
Often referred to as “rack dishwashers,” these models feature a front-loading door where racks of dishes are inserted. They’re perfect for medium-sized establishments, capable of handling heavier loads and offering faster wash cycles than under counter models.
Advantages
- Higher capacity than undercounter models.
- Faster cycle times.
- More energy-efficient than larger conveyor dishwashers.
Limitations
- Takes up more space.
- Requires manual loading and unloading of racks.
Conveyor Dishwashers
These dishwashers are commonly used in larger restaurants and cafeterias, where a high volume of dishes needs to be cleaned continuously. A conveyor belt moves racks through different stages of the cleaning process, ensuring dishes are washed and dried efficiently.
Advantages
- Can handle a high volume of dishes continuously.
- Automated conveyor system reduces manual labor.
- Perfect for large kitchens or institutions.
Limitations
- Higher water and energy consumption.
- More expensive than undercounter and door-type models.
Flight-Type Dishwashers
Flight-type dishwashers are the giants of the commercial dishwasher world. They are conveyor-like machines that don’t require racks. Instead, they have a continuous feed system, making them perfect for huge operations like hospitals or banquet halls. They’re the most expensive but also the most efficient for high-demand kitchens.
Advantages
- Ultimate capacity for large-scale operations.
- Continuous operation without the need for racks.
- Maximum efficiency for high-demand kitchens.
Limitations
- Extremely expensive.
- Requires a lot of space and maintenance.
3. Best Commercial Dishwashing Machines
No. 1
Hobart CUH-1
High Temp Sanitizing Stainless Steel Undercounter Dishwasher
The Hobart CUH-1 Centerline Undercounter Dishwasher is a high-temperature sanitizing unit designed for commercial kitchens. Here are its key features and specifications:
Features:
- High Temp Sanitization: Uses a built-in booster heater to ensure water reaches 180°F for sanitizing dishes without the need for chemicals.
- Capacity: Cleans up to 24 racks per hour, with a fast 2-minute cycle time, using only 0.84 gallons of water per rack.
- Sense-A-Temp™ Booster: Maintains the final rinse temperature for effective sanitization.
- Soft Start: Prevents chipping and breaking of glassware by gradually starting the wash cycle.
- Delime Notification: Alerts the operator when it’s time for deliming, a crucial maintenance task to ensure optimal performance.
- User-Friendly Interface: Top-mounted control panel with an LED display for easy operation, including service diagnostics and error notifications.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel design ensures long-lasting durability.
- Racks Included: Comes with two 20″x20″ racks—one for flatware and one for glassware.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 22.7″ W x 24″ D x 32.3″ H
- Electrical Requirements: 208-240 V, 24.2 A, single-phase power.
- Water Usage: 0.84 gallons per rack.
- Loading Clearance: 15.38″ door clearance for loading dishes.
This dishwasher is perfect for restaurants needing a compact yet efficient machine for high-volume dishwashing. It’s also ENERGY STAR certified, ensuring energy efficiency.
No. 2
Hobart LXER-2 LXe
Energy Recovery High Temp Sanitizing Stainless Steel Undercounter Dishwasher
The Hobart LXER-2 Advansys Energy Recovery High-Temp Sanitizing Undercounter Dishwasher is an advanced commercial dishwasher designed for energy efficiency and high performance. Below are its key features and specifications:
Features:
- Energy Recovery System: Captures heat from the rinse water and uses it to preheat the incoming cold water, reducing energy costs.
- High-Temp Sanitization: Uses a built-in booster heater to ensure sanitizing temperatures are met without the need for chemicals.
- Advanced Filtration: The Advansys system features superior filtration, ensuring dishes are washed with cleaner water, improving wash performance.
- Efficient Water Use: Uses just 0.62 gallons of water per rack, making it one of the most water-efficient machines in its class.
- User-Friendly Interface: Easy-to-read digital display with intuitive controls and service diagnostics for simple operation and maintenance.
- Quiet Operation: Operates at only 48-52 dB, making it ideal for open kitchen designs or front-of-house operation.
- Flexible Installation: Can be connected to either 120V or 208-240V power, accommodating different kitchen setups.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures durability and long-lasting performance.
- Racks Included: Comes with both peg and flat racks for various dishware.
Specifications:
- Capacity: Washes up to 30 racks per hour.
- Dimensions: 23.94″ W x 25.56″ D x 32.5″ H.
- Water Usage: 0.62 gallons per rack.
- Electrical Requirements: 120 V or 208-240 V, 1-phase.
- Door Clearance: 17″ for accommodating larger items.
This model is perfect for restaurants seeking to save on energy costs while maintaining high sanitation standards. Its energy recovery system is a standout feature that sets it apart from other commercial dishwashers.
No. 3
Hobart CDL-1
Chemical Sanitizing 51 Racks Per Hour Door Type Dishwasher
The Hobart CDL-1 Centerline dishwasher is a reliable and efficient choice for small to medium-sized commercial kitchens, offering chemical sanitization and energy efficiency while maintaining high cleaning performance. It is designed to handle up to 51 racks per hour, making it ideal for establishments needing to process a high volume of dishes in a short amount of time. With ENERGY STAR® certification, this dishwasher reduces energy consumption, helping kitchens lower operating costs without sacrificing performance.
Features:
- Chemical Sanitizing: Uses chemical agents to sanitize dishes, reducing water and energy consumption compared to traditional high-temperature dishwashers.
- 51 Racks per Hour: Capable of cleaning up to 51 racks of dishes in an hour, ideal for small to mid-sized commercial kitchens.
- Energy Efficiency: ENERGY STAR® certified, which means it meets high energy efficiency standards.
- Water Consumption: Utilizes only 0.86 gallons per rack, making it highly water-efficient.
- Soft Start Feature: Minimizes the impact on dishes during the wash cycle, reducing wear on fragile items.
- Integrated Chemical Pumps: Includes built-in pumps with chemical float indicators, making it easier to monitor chemical levels.
- 18-inch Door Opening: Features a large door opening without a center pillar for easier loading and unloading of dishes.
- Recirculating Wash Design: Reuses water in the cleaning process to save resources.
- Service Diagnostics & Delime Notifications: Equipped with diagnostic tools and alerts for maintenance tasks such as delimiting.
- Electrical Connection: Operates on a 120V / 1-phase electrical connection, allowing for easy installation.
Specifications:
- Type: Door-Type Dishwasher (Chemical Sanitizing)
- Racks per Hour: 51
- Water Consumption: 0.86 gallons per rack
- Sanitization Method: Chemical-based
- Energy Certification: ENERGY STAR®
- Electrical Requirements: 120V / 1-phase
- Cycle Options: Standard and extended cycles are available
- Dimensions: 18-inch door opening, no pillar
This Hobart CDL-1 dishwasher offers a balance between efficiency and performance, making it perfect for establishments looking to minimize energy and water usage while maintaining high cleaning standards.
No. 4
Champion DH-6000_208/60/1
Genesis High Temperature Door Type Dishwasher
The Champion DH-6000 is a high-temperature door-type commercial dishwasher designed for efficient sanitizing in commercial kitchens. This model can process 60 racks per hour, making it suitable for medium to high-volume operations. The dishwasher features a built-in 70°F rise booster heater, ensuring high sanitation temperatures are achieved consistently. Additionally, it offers a straight-through or corner installation option, providing flexibility for various kitchen layouts.
The electric tank heat system ensures optimal water temperatures during operation, and the dishwasher has an auto-start function that begins the wash cycle as soon as the door is closed, streamlining workflow in busy environments. Overall, the Champion DH-6000 provides robust performance and durability for commercial use.
For more details, you can check the specifications on the retailer’s website KaTom Restaurant Supply, Inc. OR ACityDiscount
No. 5
Jackson TEMPSTAR 208/60/1
High Temp Door Type Dish Machine with Built-In Booster
The Jackson TempStar is a highly efficient, high-temperature commercial dishwasher designed for heavy-duty use in busy kitchens. With a built-in 70°F rise booster and durable stainless steel construction, this model ensures reliable and consistent cleaning performance. It features a stainless steel nozzle that enhances wash quality and an auto start function for ease of use. Ideal for establishments that need to clean large volumes of dishes, the Jackson TempStar combines efficiency with energy-saving features like a self-draining pump and an ENERGY STAR qualification.
Features:
- High Temperature Cleaning: Equipped with a built-in 70°F rise booster to ensure optimal cleaning temperatures.
- Efficient Performance: Can clean approximately 58 racks per hour using only 0.89 gallons of water per rack, making it water-efficient.
- Stainless Steel Construction: The exterior and pump are constructed from durable stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Electro-Mechanical Controls: Simple and reliable controls for easy operation.
- Full Automatic Wash Cycle: Fully automated wash cycle simplifies operations in busy kitchens.
- Safety Features: Includes a door safety switch and a large removable scrap basket for added safety and convenience.
- Energy Efficiency: ENERGY STAR qualified for energy conservation.
- User-Friendly Design: Top-mounted controls and wash/rinse arms that screw out for easy cleaning.
- Self-Draining Pump: Designed to automatically drain itself, preventing water buildup.
- Built-In Waste Accumulator: Helps manage waste efficiently during operation.
Specifications:
- Racks per Hour: 58 racks per hour.
- Water Usage: 0.89 gallons of water per rack.
- Electrical Requirements: 208V / 60Hz / 1 phase, with a total load of 75.2 amps.
- Dimensions:
- Height: 64.38″
- Width: 32″
- Depth: 25.25″
- Interior Clearance: 17.25″ door opening, suitable for trays.
- Min. Incoming Water Temperature: 120°F.
- Pump Motor: 1 HP wash pump motor.
- Certifications: ETL approved and ENERGY STAR qualified.
- Weight: 350 lbs.
This model is an excellent choice for restaurants and commercial kitchens that require a robust, high-capacity dishwasher. The combination of high-temperature cleaning, efficient water usage, and ENERGY STAR certification makes it an eco-friendly option, while the durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
The Champion 44 PRO is a high-capacity, high-temperature rack conveyor dishwasher designed for large commercial kitchens and high-volume dishwashing operations. With the ability to process up to 209 racks per hour, this dishwasher is built for efficiency and productivity. Its durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance, while the high-temperature rinse guarantees sanitary results, making it ideal for busy foodservice establishments.
Features:
- High-Capacity Operation: Cleans up to 209 racks per hour, making it perfect for high-volume kitchens.
- Conveyor Design: Features a 44″ conveyor length to handle large loads efficiently.
- High-Temperature Rinse: Ensures optimal sanitization with a high-temperature rinse system.
- Large Interior Clearance: Offers 20″ vertical clearance, suitable for large items like 18″ x 26″ sheet pans.
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built with a stainless steel base and exterior for durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Energy Efficient: ENERGY STAR certified, contributing to lower energy consumption and reduced operational costs.
- Safety Certifications: UL and NSF listed, meeting industry safety and sanitation standards.
- Powerful Motor: Equipped with a 2 HP motor to ensure consistent washing performance.
Specifications:
- Racks per Hour: 209.
- Conveyor Length: 44″.
- Interior Clearance: 20″ vertical clearance.
- Capacity: Fits 18″ x 26″ sheet pans.
- Electrical Requirements: 60 Hz.
- Horsepower: 2 HP.
- Dimensions:
- Height: 89″
- Width: 60″
- Depth: 35-3/4″
- Weight: 600 lbs.
- Certifications: UL listed, NSF certified, and ENERGY STAR qualified.
This model is ideal for large commercial operations needing high-efficiency dishwashing. The combination of high rack capacity, powerful motor, and energy-saving features makes the Champion 44 PRO a reliable choice for businesses seeking performance and sustainability.
No. 7
Hobart CL44EN-ADV+BUILDUP
Conveyor Dishwasher Advansys Model Single
The Hobart CL44EN-ADV+BUILDUP is a high-performance, single-tank conveyor dishwasher designed to handle the rigorous demands of commercial kitchens. With the ability to clean 202 racks per hour, this model offers top-tier efficiency while maintaining energy conservation through advanced technology. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability, and features like energy recovery, automatic soil removal, and programmable notifications make this dishwasher both user-friendly and environmentally conscious.
Features:
- High-Capacity Cleaning: Cleans up to 202 racks per hour, making it ideal for busy commercial kitchens.
- Advanced Microprocessor Controls: Includes low temperature and dirty water indicators for better monitoring and operation.
- Energy Recovery (DWER): Recaptures energy from the drain water to preheat incoming water, reducing energy costs.
- Automatic Soil Removal (ASR): Automatically removes food particles during the wash cycle, improving cleaning performance.
- NSF Pot & Pan Mode: A specialized mode for heavy-duty cleaning of pots and pans.
- Programmable Delime Notification: Alerts operators when the unit requires descaling, ensuring optimal performance.
- Built-In Drain Water Tempering Kit: Helps regulate drain water temperature for safety and efficiency.
- Free Factory Startup: Hobart offers free installation support within a 100-mile radius of a Hobart service office.
Specifications:
- Racks per Hour: 202.
- Water Usage: 0.62 gallons per rack.
- Tank Design: Single tank without pre-wash.
- Booster Heater: 30 kW stainless steel booster.
- Dimensions:
- Height: 68.5″
- Width: 44.75″
- Depth: 31.25″
- Weight: 624 lbs.
- Construction: Stainless steel enclosure panels for durability.
- Certifications: NSF and ENERGY STAR certified.
- Temperature: Convertible between high and low temperatures.
This dishwasher is a powerful and efficient choice for high-volume kitchens, offering energy-saving features, durable construction, and advanced controls for optimal performance. The Hobart CL44EN-ADV+BUILDUP ensures maximum productivity while minimizing water and energy usage.
4. Key Features to Look for in Commercial Dishwashers
When selecting the best commercial dishwasher, it’s important to look at several key features that will affect the machine’s performance, cost, and suitability for your business.
Capacity and Size
Consider how many dishes you need to clean daily. For smaller establishments, an undercounter model may suffice, but for high-volume kitchens, a conveyor or flight-type dishwasher is a better fit.
Cycle Time
The speed of the wash cycle is critical in commercial kitchens. A fast cycle means you can quickly return clean dishes to the kitchen floor. Most commercial dishwashers offer cycles as quick as 60-120 seconds.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient dishwashers not only save on utility bills but are also better for the environment. Look for models with ENERGY STAR certification, which ensures the dishwasher uses less water and energy without sacrificing performance.
Water Usage
Water consumption varies widely between dishwasher types. Smaller models typically use less water, while conveyor and flight-type dishwashers consume more but clean larger quantities of dishes. Finding the right balance between water usage and capacity is crucial.
Temperature Control
Commercial dishwashers often come in two varieties: high-temperature and low-temperature models. High-temperature dishwashers use hot water to sanitize, while low-temperature machines rely on chemical sanitizers. Each has its pros and cons, which we’ll discuss later.
5. Understanding Certifications and Compliance
When selecting a commercial dishwasher, ensuring it meets industry certifications is crucial. These certifications not only ensure that the machine works efficiently but also that it complies with health and safety regulations.
NSF Certification
The NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) certification ensures that the dishwasher meets strict hygiene and sanitation standards. An NSF-certified dishwasher guarantees that it effectively sanitizes dishes, ensuring the health and safety of your customers.
ENERGY STAR Ratings
Dishwashers with ENERGY STAR ratings are certified as energy-efficient, meaning they use less water and electricity. This can save you money on utility bills in the long run and is a more eco-friendly option.
Local Health Code Compliance
Always ensure that your dishwasher complies with local health codes. Failure to meet these regulations could result in fines or even closure of your business. Most reputable commercial dishwashers are designed to meet or exceed these codes, but it’s essential to double-check.
6. Choosing the Right Size for Your Business
The size of your business will largely dictate the type of dishwasher you need.
Small Cafes and Restaurants
For small cafes or restaurants, an undercounter dishwasher should suffice. These machines are compact and efficient, making them ideal for operations with lower volumes of dishes.
Medium-Sized Establishments
Medium-sized restaurants or businesses might need a door-type dishwasher, which can handle more dishes without taking up too much space.
Large Kitchens and Food Chains
If you’re running a large kitchen or a chain restaurant, consider a conveyor or flight-type dishwasher. These machines can handle continuous dishwashing with minimal downtime, perfect for high-demand environments.
7. Maintenance Tips for Commercial Dishwashers
Keeping your commercial dishwasher well-maintained is critical for its longevity and performance.
Regular Cleaning
Clean the machine daily to prevent food residue buildup, which can lead to clogs or poor cleaning performance.
Descaling and Sanitation
Hard water can cause scale buildup in dishwashers, affecting their efficiency. De-scale the machine regularly to prevent this. Make sure to sanitize the dishwasher frequently to ensure it meets health and safety standards.
Filter Maintenance
Clean or replace the dishwasher’s filter as needed to prevent clogs and ensure water flows freely during the wash cycle.
How to Make Your Dishwasher Last Twice as Long: Expert Tips
8. Energy and Water Efficiency in Commercial Dishwashers
Energy and water efficiency play a significant role in the operating costs of your dishwasher.
Saving on Utility Bills
Choosing an ENERGY STAR-certified model can significantly reduce your water and energy bills, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Options
Some commercial dishwashers are designed with sustainability in mind, using less water and energy while maintaining high performance. These eco-friendly models are an excellent choice for businesses looking to minimize their environmental footprint.
9. Conclusion: Summary of Key Points
Choosing the best commercial dishwasher for your business depends on understanding your specific needs, from kitchen size and volume to budget and energy efficiency. Whether you need an undercounter dishwasher for a small café or a flight-type model for a large institution, there’s a machine that fits your requirements. Keep in mind certifications like NSF and ENERGY STAR, consider maintenance and operating costs, and ensure the dishwasher meets your local health code regulations.
A well-maintained dishwasher not only keeps your kitchen running smoothly but also saves money in the long run by being energy-efficient and reliable.
FAQs
1. What is the most energy-efficient commercial dishwasher?
ENERGY STAR-rated dishwashers are the most energy-efficient. Brands like Hobart and Jackson offer models with excellent energy-saving features.
2. How often should I clean my commercial dishwasher?
You should clean your commercial dishwasher daily to prevent food residue buildup and ensure efficient operation.
3. What is the average lifespan of a commercial dishwasher?
With proper maintenance, a commercial dishwasher can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
4. Is it better to lease or buy a commercial dishwasher?
Leasing is a good option for new businesses or those wanting to minimize upfront costs. Buying is more cost-effective in the long run for established businesses.
5. How can I ensure my commercial dishwasher meets health regulations?
Make sure your dishwasher has NSF certification and is installed and maintained according to local health code standards. Regular cleaning and sanitation checks are also essential.
