Imagine a busy restaurant kitchen during the dinner rush. Plates pile up fast. How quickly can you get them clean and back out? A slow or unreliable dishwasher can bring everything to a screeching halt. That’s the real cost of choosing the wrong machine.
Selecting a commercial dishwasher feels overwhelming. You face tough choices about size, speed, and energy use. Will it handle your heavy workload? Will it save you money on water bills? Getting it wrong means wasted time, unhappy staff, and maybe even health code worries. It’s a big investment, so you need to get it right the first time.
This guide cuts through the confusing jargon. We will break down the different types of dishwashers available, from undercounter models to high-capacity flight-type machines. You will learn exactly what features matter most for your specific business needs.
Ready to find the workhorse your kitchen truly needs? Keep reading to discover the secrets to choosing a powerful, efficient commercial dishwasher that keeps pace with your busiest days.
Top Commercial Dishwasher Recommendations
- SPACIOUS BASKET: There is the large sized 20”x20” square basket glass washer that is designed specifically for glassware. This will help you to protect the important glass items you place inside.
- STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION: The glassware dishwasher includes stainless steel wash and rinse arms (top and bottom), high temperature boosters, easy to use digital controls and water consumption as low as 1/2 gallon of water per cycle on most models.
- 2 MINUTES WASH CYCLES: This glass washer machine takes 2 minutes from start to finish, and both the detergent pump and the rinse aid dispenser will help you in great ways to make sure that you are working with a high quality machine.
- WASH AND RINSE TEMPERATURE THERMOMETERS: The thermocontrol device included in the glasswasher will keep the temperature at the right place even with nonstop work, and the extractable control panel will give you access to everything you need when using it.
- REMOVABLE CONTROL PANEL: An extractable control panel comes standard for an easy maintenance. Includes two baskets for glasses, one saucers insert and two cutlery containers for your convenience.
- The Overall dimension is 28"Length X 32"Depth X55"Height, weighted 225Lbs. Useable chamber height of 16″. Low 0.74 Gallons per cycle rinse volume dish/glasswasher. Double skin body and door- avoiding loss of energy/ steam. Maximum capacity is 50 Racks/H.
- EASY-TO-USE: electronic controls with 3 cycles-70,100&130 seconds. Digital temperature gauges Suitable for all dish & glass washing applications. It used 208-240V electricity, either single-phase or 3-phase can be used, booster power is 5.5Kw.
- Rotating stainless steel wash & rinse arm with WIDE ANGLE FAN nozzle to maximize wash & rinse performance. Wash pump inlet strainer to ensure machine reliability.Optimum hygienic-deep drawn tank with coved corners (no welds)
- Includes chemical dispensers, fill hose, drain hose for quick & easy installation, it also come with Cavity Drain and Pumped rinse system.
- 【Warranty & Shipping】We offer 1 year parts warranty and 1 year labor warranty. You can apply for Free Return for functional failures within 1 month. Please keep the pallet and package material when receiving the freight - you will need them for return.
- The Overall dimension is 24"Length X 25"Depth X32"Height, weighted 158Lbs. Useable chamber height of 12″. Low 0.66 Gallons per cycle rinse volume dish/glasswasher. Double skin body and door- avoiding loss of energy/ steam. Maximum capacity is 30 Racks/H.
- EASY-TO-USE: electronic controls with 3 cycles-120,150&180 seconds. Digital temperature gauges Suitable for all dish & glass washing applications. It used 208-240V electricity, either single-phase or 3-phase can be used, booster power is 2.5Kw.
- Rotating stainless steel wash & rinse arm with WIDE ANGLE FAN nozzle to maximize wash & rinse performance. Wash pump inlet strainer to ensure machine reliability
- Includes chemical dispensers, fill hose, drain hose for quick & easy installation, it also come with Cavity Drain and Pumped rinse system.
- 【Warranty & Shipping】We offer 1 year parts warranty and 1 year labor warranty. You can apply for Free Return for functional failures within 1 month. Please keep the pallet and package material when receiving the freight - you will need them for return.
- WARNING: 208V-240V voltage 3-phase operation, Can be changed into 1-Phase Configuration by electrician. need electrician to install which may cost high. Processes up to 30 racks per hour with 120/150/180 second wash cycles for efficient commercial dishwashing operations
- TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Digital temperature displays with wash temperature of 140°F and rinse temperature of 180°F for optimal cleaning performance
- EFFICIENT DESIGN: Double-skin body and door construction with rotating stainless steel wash arms featuring wide-angle fan nozzles for superior cleaning
- WATER EFFICIENT: Uses only 0.66 gallons per cycle with pumped rinse system, perfect for commercial kitchens looking to minimize water consumption
- COMMERCIAL SPECS: 12-inch clearance height, compact dimensions of 24.61"x25"x32.1", with chemical dispensers included. 1-year all-parts and 1st month labor warranty Note: our warranty does not cover all equipment used in food trucks, trailers, boats, residential addresses, islands, or built-in decorations.
- High-Speed Performance: Capable of handling up to (51) racks per hour, this dishwasher ensures efficient throughput, making it ideal for high-demand commercial environments where speed is essential.
- Chemical Sanitizing and Efficiency: Utilizing chemical sanitizing methods and boasting a recirculating design, this dishwasher maintains high hygiene standards while conserving water and energy, meeting NSF and ENERGY STAR® requirements.
- Integrated Chemical Pumps: Equipped with integrated chemical pumps featuring chemical-float indicators, this dishwasher simplifies chemical dispensing and monitoring, ensuring precise sanitation levels and reducing manual intervention.
- User-Friendly Operation and Maintenance: With features like delime notification and cycle, service diagnostics with error notifications, and a soft start function, this dishwasher streamlines operation and maintenance, minimizing downtime and enhancing user experience.
- Innovative Design Features: The dishwasher features combination wash/rinse arms, an 18-inch pillarless vertical door opening, and a door-actuated start mechanism, enhancing washing performance, accessibility, and user convenience. Additionally, it ships with (1) peg rack and (1) combination rack, offering immediate usability upon installation.
- SPACIOUS BASKET: There is the large sized 16”x16” square basket glass washer that is designed specifically for glassware. This will help you to protect the important glass items you place inside.
- STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION: The glassware dishwasher includes stainless steel wash and rinse arms (top and bottom), high temperature boosters, easy to use digital controls and water consumption as low as 1/2 gallon of water per cycle on most models.
- 2 MINUTES WASH CYCLES: This glass washer machine takes 2 minutes from start to finish, and both the detergent pump and the rinse aid dispenser will help you in great ways to make sure that you are working with a high quality machine.
- WASH AND RINSE TEMPERATURE THERMOMETERS: The thermocontrol device included in the glasswasher will keep the temperature at the right place even with nonstop work, and the extractable control panel will give you access to everything you need when using it.
- REMOVABLE CONTROL PANEL: An extractable control panel comes standard for an easy maintenance. Includes two baskets for glasses, one saucers insert and two cutlery containers for your convenience.
- Smart Touch Panel: The dishwashers boasts three adjustable cleaning modes for different levels of dirtiness. The touch screen panel is easy to operate, with an intelligent digital display that lets you monitor the machine's status. Machine size is W28"xD30"xH70.5"
- Easy-to-Clean Components: The main 3rd generation wash arm, rinse arm, and filter are designed for easy disassembly. This makes daily cleaning and maintenance a breeze, ensuring the dishwasher remains in top condition. Such as Plates, Bowl, Glass, Mug, dish rack
- Precision Temperature Control: The advanced temperature monitoring system ensures the rinse temperature stays above 85°C, guaranteeing thorough disinfection and hygienic cleanliness of your tableware. The temperature adjustable range is 55~90°C
- Advanced Safety Door Switch: Equipped with a sensitive door control switch, the dish washer stops immediately when the cover is opened and resumes washing when closed, providing a safe, fast, and convenient user experience
- Energy-Efficient Water System: 65L water tank. The reliable and energy-saving water circulation system maximizes water usage efficiency. Every drop of water is accurately utilized and reused for washing, making the machine both environmentally friendly and cost-effective
- Compact Design: With dimensions of 22 11/16"W x 24"D x 32 5/16"H, this undercounter dishwasher fits snugly into smaller spaces, making it perfect for tight kitchen configurations or limited countertop areas.
- High Temperature Sanitizing: Utilizing high temperature sanitizing, this dishwasher ensures thorough cleaning and sanitation of dishes and utensils, meeting stringent NSF standards for cleanliness and hygiene.
- Efficient Performance: Capable of handling up to (24) racks per hour, this dishwasher offers efficient throughput, making it suitable for moderate-volume commercial settings where consistent washing is required.
- User-Friendly Features: With delime notification and cycle, service diagnostics with error notifications, and a soft start function, this dishwasher simplifies operation and maintenance, reducing downtime and ensuring smooth workflow.
- Integrated Pumps: Equipped with detergent and rinse aid pumps, this dishwasher streamlines chemical dispensing, ensuring precise detergent and rinse aid application for optimal cleaning results. Additionally, it ships with (1) peg rack and (1) combo rack, providing immediate usability upon installation. Furthermore, it holds cULus and NSF certifications, affirming its compliance with safety and sanitation standards.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Commercial Dishwashers
Buying a commercial dishwasher is a big step for any food business. You need one that cleans fast, uses less water, and lasts a long time. This guide will help you pick the best machine for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, look closely at these important features. They make a big difference in how well the machine works every day.
Speed and Capacity
- Cycle Time: How fast does it clean a rack of dishes? Shorter times (like 1-3 minutes) mean you can serve more customers quickly. Fast machines keep up during busy rushes.
- Racks Per Hour (RPH): This tells you how many racks the dishwasher handles in one hour. A busy diner needs a higher RPH than a small cafe.
Washing Power and Efficiency
- Water Temperature: Commercial dishwashers use very hot water to sanitize dishes. Look for machines that reach at least 180°F (82°C) for the rinse cycle.
- Water Usage: Newer models often use less water per cycle. Saving water also saves you money on utility bills.
- Energy Star Rating: Machines with this label are energy efficient. They use less electricity without sacrificing cleaning power.
Ease of Use
- Controls: Simple, clear digital controls are best. Staff should be able to run the machine without complicated training.
- Door Safety: Some machines stop running if the door is accidentally opened mid-cycle. This keeps staff safe from hot steam.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials inside and outside the machine decide how long it lasts. Commercial kitchens are tough environments. You need tough equipment.
Stainless Steel Construction
Always choose a dishwasher made mostly of stainless steel. Stainless steel resists rust and corrosion from harsh detergents and constant moisture. The interior tank and the exterior housing should be high-quality stainless steel.
Heating Elements
The heating elements, which warm the water, are often made of stainless steel or Incoloy. Better quality elements heat water faster and do not burn out as quickly. Poor quality parts fail sooner, causing costly downtime.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the parts; it’s about how the machine cleans and handles daily stress.
Factors That Improve Quality
- Powerful Spray Arms: Look for multiple spray arms with strong jets. These arms must spray water evenly across every plate and glass.
- Effective Filtration: Good filtration systems catch large food debris before it clogs pipes or redeposits dirt onto clean dishes.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Plastic Components: Too many plastic parts inside the wash chamber will crack under high heat and harsh chemicals. This reduces the lifespan significantly.
- Weak Pumps: If the water pump is weak, the spray pressure drops. Dirty water circulates, and dishes come out streaky or still dirty.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use the dishwasher. Different businesses need different types of machines.
Under-Counter Models
These fit neatly under a standard counter. They are great for small cafes, bars, or offices where space is limited. They usually handle lower volumes.
Conveyor or Flight-Type Models
These are massive machines. Food travels through them on a moving conveyor belt. Hospitals, large hotels, and high-volume cafeterias use these because they clean hundreds of racks per hour.
Door-Type (Hood Type) Models
These are the most common. You load a rack, pull down the hood, and press start. They offer a good balance of speed and size for most mid-sized restaurants.
Ultimately, the best machine is the one that fits your volume, budget, and available space while providing reliable, sanitary cleaning every time.
Commercial Dishwasher FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a “Sanitizing” and a “High-Temp” dishwasher?
A: High-temp dishwashers use very hot water (at least 180°F or 82°C) for the final rinse to kill germs. Sanitizing dishwashers use lower temperatures but rely on chemical sanitizers added to the water. High-temp models often dry dishes faster.
Q: How much space do I need for an under-counter unit?
A: Most under-counter models need about 34 inches of height to fit under a standard counter (around 24 inches deep). Always check the exact dimensions before buying. Remember to leave space for plumbing access too.
Q: Do I need special plumbing for these machines?
A: Yes. Commercial dishwashers require a dedicated hot water line and a proper drain connection. Most need a high-pressure water inlet. Check local health codes; they often dictate specific drain connections to prevent backflow.
Q: How often should I clean the filters?
A: For busy restaurants, you should clean the main scrap tray and filters at least once or twice a day. Checking them mid-shift helps maintain good cleaning power and prevents clogs.
Q: What voltage do these machines usually run on?
A: Many smaller, under-counter models run on standard 110V or 120V electricity. However, larger, high-power hood or conveyor models often require 208V or 240V, three-phase power. Make sure your kitchen wiring can handle the requirement.
Q: Why are commercial dishwashers so expensive compared to home ones?
A: Commercial models are built with heavy-duty stainless steel components designed for non-stop use, use stronger pumps for better pressure, and reach much higher, regulated temperatures for true sanitation. They are built for industrial performance.
Q: What is “booster heater” and do I need one?
A: A booster heater is a separate unit that quickly raises the incoming water temperature to the required 180°F for the final rinse. If your building’s hot water heater cannot reach that temperature reliably, you absolutely need a booster heater.
Q: What are the common causes of poor drying performance?
A: Poor drying is usually caused by the final rinse water not being hot enough (needs a booster or check the setting), or the machine being overloaded, which traps steam. Also, using the wrong rinse aid can affect drying.
Q: Should I use detergent or chemical sanitizer?
A: You always use detergent to clean the dishes. If you buy a high-temp machine, you only use detergent. If you buy a chemical-sanitizing machine, you use detergent *plus* a specific chemical sanitizer added automatically by a dispenser.
Q: How long should a commercial dishwasher last?
A: With regular maintenance, a quality commercial dishwasher should last between 7 to 15 years. Machines used constantly in very high-volume settings might need replacement sooner than those in lighter-use environments.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!