Imagine a bustling restaurant kitchen. Plates pile high, and the clock is ticking. How do you keep up with the demand for sparkling clean dishes without slowing down service? The unsung hero in many of these kitchens is the commercial undercounter dishwasher. It’s a small appliance that does a mighty job, but picking the right one can feel like a chore in itself.
Choosing a commercial undercounter dishwasher isn’t just about finding a machine that washes dishes. You need to consider how much space you have, how many dishes you wash daily, and what features will make your life easier. The wrong choice can lead to wasted time, higher utility bills, and even damaged dishes. That’s a lot to think about!
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great undercounter dishwasher and what you should look for. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to consider to find the perfect fit for your business. Let’s dive in and discover how to make dishwashing a breeze.
Our Top 5 Commercial Undercounter Dishwasher Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Commercial Undercounter Dishwasher Detailed Reviews
1. Eurodib DSP4DPS Lamber Deluxe High-Temp Rack Undercounter Dishwasher
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet the Eurodib DSP4DPS Lamber Deluxe High-Temp Rack Undercounter Dishwasher, a powerful cleaning machine designed for busy kitchens. This dishwasher can clean up to 30 racks of dishes every hour, making it super efficient. Its shiny stainless steel build means it’s strong and will last a long time. It uses a special high-temperature wash to get everything sparkling clean.
What We Like:
- It has a big 20”x20” basket that fits lots of glassware and protects your delicate items.
- The whole machine is made of tough stainless steel, including the wash and rinse arms.
- It’s really fast, finishing a wash cycle in just 2 minutes.
- Built-in detergent and rinse aid dispensers make sure you get a great clean every time.
- It has special thermometers to keep the wash and rinse water at the perfect temperature.
- The control panel is removable, making it easy to clean and maintain.
- It comes with extra accessories like two glass baskets, a saucer insert, and two cutlery containers.
- It uses very little water, about half a gallon per cycle on most settings.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires a specific electrical setup (208-240v), so make sure your kitchen is ready for it.
- For some users, the initial cost might be a consideration.
This dishwasher offers impressive cleaning power and thoughtful features for any commercial setting. It’s a reliable workhorse that keeps your glassware and dishes clean and ready to go.
2. 3 or 1-phase Commercial Undercounter Dishwasher
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready for sparkling clean dishes with the H50-S1 ETL Undercounter Dishwasher! This powerhouse is built for busy commercial kitchens. It can wash up to 30 racks every hour. That means you can keep up with demand without a hitch. Its high-temperature washing and rinsing systems ensure germ-free results. Plus, it’s designed to save water, which is great for your business and the planet.
What We Like:
- Cleans up to 30 racks per hour for fast service.
- High wash (140°F) and rinse (180°F) temperatures kill germs.
- Uses only 0.66 gallons of water per cycle, saving money.
- Built tough with a double-skin body and stainless steel arms.
- Compact size fits easily under most counters.
- Comes with chemical dispensers for easy setup.
- ETL certified for safety and quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires a professional electrician for installation due to its 208-240V, 3-phase capability. This can add to the initial cost.
- The warranty excludes use in food trucks, trailers, boats, residential settings, and on islands.
This dishwasher offers efficient cleaning and water savings. It’s a solid choice for commercial kitchens that need a reliable and powerful solution.
3. Hobart LXn Dishwasher (LXNH-2) High temperature sanitizing undercounter with 17″ door
Rating: 8.7/10
The Hobart LXn Dishwasher (LXNH-2) is a powerful, high-temperature sanitizing undercounter dishwasher. It’s designed for busy kitchens that need clean dishes fast. This machine can wash up to 32 racks of dishes every hour, making it a real workhorse. It also has a special feature that reminds you when it’s time to remove mineral buildup, keeping it running smoothly. Plus, it automatically adds the right amount of detergent and rinse aid, so your dishes come out sparkling clean every time. The smart touchscreen controls are easy to use, and the SmartConnect app lets you monitor it remotely.
What We Like:
- Cleans 32 racks per hour, which is super fast.
- Has a delime notification to keep it in top shape.
- Automatically adds soap and rinse aid for perfect results.
- Easy-to-use touchscreen and smart app control.
- It’s ENERGY STAR certified, saving energy and money.
- Sanitizes with high temperatures, killing germs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation might require professional help due to its power requirements.
- The initial cost might be higher than simpler models.
This Hobart LXn dishwasher is a smart investment for any commercial kitchen needing efficient and hygienic dishwashing. It offers advanced features that simplify operation and ensure excellent cleaning performance.
4. Commercial Undercounter Glass Dishwasher
Rating: 8.7/10
The Hobart Centerline Series Commercial Undercounter Glass Dishwasher is a smart choice for busy kitchens. It cleans your glassware efficiently and saves you space. This dishwasher makes sure your glasses are always sparkling clean and safe to use.
What We Like:
- It has built-in pumps for detergent, rinse aid, and sanitizer. This makes sure you use the right amount of chemicals every time.
- A special light tells you when the sanitizer needs attention, so you know it’s working well.
- It comes with racks so you can start using it right away.
- It reminds you when it needs to be cleaned of lime scale and has a special cycle for it.
- It can tell you if something is wrong with it, making repairs easier.
- The “soft start” feature protects your dishes from a sudden blast of water.
- It uses low-temperature chemical sanitizing with fresh water rinsing. This cleans and sanitizes effectively while saving energy.
- It can wash up to 24 racks of dishes every hour, which is great for busy times.
- Its small size fits easily under counters, saving valuable kitchen space.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for moderate demand, very high-volume kitchens might need something bigger.
- The chemical sensing indicator is for sanitizer specifically; users will still need to monitor other chemical levels.
This dishwasher offers a great balance of performance and practicality. It’s a reliable option for any establishment that needs clean, sanitized glassware without taking up too much room.
5. Commercial Undercounter Glass Dishwasher
Rating: 9.3/10
The Hobart Centerline Series Commercial Undercounter Glass Dishwasher is a smart solution for busy kitchens. It’s built to clean your dishes thoroughly and efficiently. This dishwasher is designed to fit where you need it, making it a great choice for many businesses.
What We Like:
- It has a compact design, so it fits easily into smaller kitchens.
- It uses high temperatures to sanitize dishes, making them super clean.
- It washes up to 24 racks of dishes every hour, which is fast for busy times.
- It has helpful features like reminders to de-lime and easy ways to check if it’s working right.
- Built-in pumps automatically add soap and rinse aid for perfect cleaning.
- It comes with racks, so you can start using it right away.
- It meets important safety and cleanliness standards (cULus and NSF certified).
What Could Be Improved:
- It might not be the best choice for extremely high-volume restaurants with very large needs.
- While user-friendly, understanding all the service diagnostics might take a little learning.
This Hobart dishwasher offers a great balance of size, cleaning power, and helpful features. It’s a reliable appliance that helps keep your kitchen running smoothly and your dishes sparkling clean.
Your Guide to Choosing a Commercial Undercounter Dishwasher
Running a busy restaurant, cafe, or catering business means keeping dishes sparkling clean. A commercial undercounter dishwasher is a workhorse that helps you do just that. These machines tuck neatly under your counter, saving precious space. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Wash Cycles
Different dishes need different cleaning. Look for dishwashers with multiple wash cycles. A heavy-duty cycle tackles greasy pots and pans. A light cycle works well for delicate glassware. Some machines even have a sanitize cycle to kill germs.
Water Temperature
Hot water is crucial for cleaning and sanitizing. Ensure the dishwasher reaches high temperatures, often around 160-180°F (71-82°C) for washing and 180°F (82°C) for rinsing. This helps remove tough food bits and disinfect dishes.
Detergent and Rinse Aid Dispensers
Automatic dispensers make your life easier. They add the right amount of detergent and rinse aid at the right time. This ensures a spotless clean and prevents water spots on your dishes.
Rack Capacity and Size
Consider how many dishes you need to wash at once. Dishwashers come with different rack sizes. Some can fit larger trays and pots. Make sure the racks are easy to load and unload.
Noise Level
A noisy dishwasher can disrupt your kitchen. Look for models that advertise a low decibel (dB) rating. This is especially important if your kitchen is open to diners.
Energy and Water Efficiency
These machines use a lot of energy and water. Look for Energy Star certified models. They save you money on utility bills and are better for the environment.
Important Materials
The materials used in a dishwasher affect its durability and performance.
- Stainless Steel: This is the best material for the interior of a commercial dishwasher. Stainless steel is strong, resists rust and corrosion, and is easy to clean. It holds up well to high temperatures and harsh cleaning chemicals.
- Durable Plastics: Some exterior parts or internal components might use high-quality, heat-resistant plastics. Ensure these plastics are food-grade and built to last.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Dishwasher Great?
- Robust Construction: A well-built dishwasher feels solid. Its doors should open and close smoothly. The controls should be responsive.
- Effective Filtration System: A good filter traps food debris, preventing it from recirculating and redepositing on dishes. This leads to cleaner results.
- Reliable Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands that have a history of making quality commercial kitchen equipment.
- Good Warranty: A longer warranty shows the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
What Can Lower the Quality?
- Cheaply Made Parts: Flimsy racks or weak hinges can break easily, leading to costly repairs.
- Poor Insulation: This can cause heat loss, making the machine less efficient and louder.
- Limited Wash Options: If a dishwasher only has one or two basic cycles, it may not handle all your cleaning needs.
User Experience and Use Cases
Commercial undercounter dishwashers are designed for busy environments where speed and efficiency are key.
Restaurants and Cafes
These are the most common users. They wash plates, glasses, cutlery, and cooking utensils throughout the day and at closing. Quick wash cycles are essential.
Catering Companies
Caterers often deal with large volumes of dishes after events. A reliable undercounter dishwasher helps them clean up efficiently so they can prepare for the next job.
Bars and Pubs
Bars need clean glassware to serve drinks. A dedicated glasswasher cycle is a great feature for these establishments.
Small Food Establishments
Even small bakeries or delis can benefit from an undercounter dishwasher to handle their dishwashing needs without taking up much floor space.
Using an undercounter dishwasher means less manual scrubbing and more time for your staff to focus on serving customers. It also ensures a consistent level of cleanliness, which is vital for food safety and customer satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a commercial and a residential dishwasher?
A: Commercial dishwashers clean much faster and use hotter water to sanitize dishes. They are built with stronger materials to handle more use.
Q: How much space do I need for an undercounter dishwasher?
A: You need enough space to slide the dishwasher in. Check the dimensions of the unit you are considering and measure your cabinet opening.
Q: Do I need special plumbing for a commercial undercounter dishwasher?
A: Yes, you usually need a dedicated hot water supply line and a drain connection. It’s best to have a professional plumber install it.
Q: How often should I clean my undercounter dishwasher?
A: You should clean the filter daily. A deeper clean of the interior and spray arms should happen weekly or as needed.
Q: Can I wash pots and pans in an undercounter dishwasher?
A: Some models have heavy-duty cycles that can handle pots and pans, but very large or heavily soiled items might need pre-rinsing or a different type of machine.
Q: What is a sanitize cycle?
A: A sanitize cycle uses very hot water during the final rinse to kill bacteria and germs, making your dishes safer to eat from.
Q: How much water does a commercial undercounter dishwasher use?
A: This varies by model, but they are designed to use less water per cycle than handwashing a large load of dishes.
Q: What are the energy requirements for these dishwashers?
A: They typically require a standard electrical outlet but check the specific voltage and amperage needed for the model you choose.
Q: How long do commercial undercounter dishwashers usually last?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality commercial dishwasher can last many years, often 5-10 years or more.
Q: Where is the best place to buy one?
A: You can buy them from restaurant supply stores, online retailers that specialize in commercial kitchen equipment, or directly from manufacturers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
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!