The 5-Step Commercial Dishwasher Buying Checklist

Step 1: Calculate Your True Dish Volume

Before you look at a single machine, determine your needs.

• Action: For one week, track the number of dishes (plates, glasses, silverware) you wash during your busiest 1-hour period. This "peak-hour volume" is your most critical metric.

• Why it matters: Buying a machine based on your total daily volume is a mistake. The key is to handle the flow during your most demanding moments to avoid backups and maintain service speed.

Step 2: Match Your Volume to a Machine Type

Use your peak-hour volume to choose the right category of machine.

• If your peak-hour volume is small (under 500 items): Focus on Undercounter Dishwashers. They are compact and perfect for quick cycles in cafes and bars.

• If your peak-hour volume is medium (500-1,000 items): Look for Door-Type Dishwashers. These are the industry standard for most restaurants, offering a balance of speed and capacity.

• If your peak-hour volume is high (over 1,000 items): You need a Conveyor Dishwasher. This is a continuous-flow powerhouse built for large-scale operations.

Step 3: Evaluate Technical and Utility Costs

A lower price tag isn't always a better deal.

• Action: When comparing models, ask for specific data on water and electricity consumption per cycle or per hour.

• Why it matters: A machine that is 10% more expensive upfront but uses 20% less water and energy can save you thousands of dollars over its lifespan.

Step 4: Verify Your Space and Utilities

Measure twice, buy once.

• Action: Get the exact dimensions of the machine and the space where it will go. Confirm you have the correct electrical power, water pressure, and drainage connections required by the manufacturer.

• Why it matters: An incompatible machine is a costly paperweight. These details are non-negotiable for installation and operation.

Step 5: Prioritize After-Sales Support

Your machine is an investment that needs a safety net.

• Action: Before you buy, ask the supplier about their service and maintenance programs. Inquire about the average response time for repairs and the availability of spare parts.

• Why it matters: A broken dishwasher during a busy service is a crisis. Having a reliable service partner can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a disastrous night.

Your Final Checklist Before You Buy:

• Peak-Hour Volume: What is your number?

• Machine Type: Undercounter, Door-Type, or Conveyor?

• Efficiency: Have you compared water and energy use?

• Compatibility: Does it fit your space and utilities?

• Service Plan: Is there reliable support for maintenance and repairs?

By following these 5 steps, you'll move from being overwhelmed to making a confident, informed decision that will benefit your business for years to come.

Contact Us for Expert Consultation

For more details on designing the perfect walk-in refrigerator or any commercial kitchen equipment inquiries, contact us at benny@ntsmart.com.