It’s a common mistake, but too many people still purchase a commercial dishwasher based on the initial investment price. While the upfront cost is a significant aspect, it's only one part of the broader picture. We’re here to help you understand the true cost of your commercial dishwasher.
In fact, the lifecycle cost of any machine includes installation expenses, the cost of regular maintenance and unexpected repairs, extended warranties, and the ongoing costs of operation such as detergent, rinse aid and energy consumption.
Understanding these costs can help you to make well-informed financial decisions that optimise operations and ultimately ensure a return on investment.
COMMERCIAL DISHWASHER INSTALLATION COST
When purchasing a commercial dishwasher, it's crucial to remember the installation cost. This aspect isn't usually included in the purchase price, and overlooking it can lead to unexpected expenses that can significantly strain your budget.
Installation extends beyond just slotting in the machine. It involves a variety of considerations including electrical and plumbing work, construction or modification of existing spaces, and in the case of passthrough dishwashers, the need for bespoke fabrication.
For example, services (water, waste and electrics) need to be situated within one metre of the machine for the installation to be carried out. Services in an unsuitable location will need to be relocated to ensure the machine can be installed successfully. The cost of this will depend on the amount of labour required (time and number of engineers) and if any additional equipment is needed.
Passthrough (also known as hood type) dishwashers often require additional bespoke fabrication such as entry and exit tables and specialised wash up areas, the cost of which will vary depending on the type of fabrication required and the quality of workmanship. You can usually expect to pay between £1,000 and £5,000 for this type of work.
Labour costs depend on the complexity of the installation, the time required to complete the install and the number of engineers needed. Depending on these factors and the rates of the company being used, labour costs can range from £175 to £500 for undercounter dishwashers and £395 to £950 for passthrough dishwashers.
PLANNED MAINTENANCE AND REACTIVE BREAKDOWN COVER
Maintenance is a crucial aspect of owning a commercial dishwasher that directly impacts its lifespan, efficiency, and overall operational cost. Maintenance costs usually fall into two categories: planned maintenance and reactive breakdown cover.
Planned Maintenance
Planned maintenance is a proactive approach to upkeep and involves regular inspections and minor repairs to prevent more significant, more expensive issues down the line. It can include tasks like checking and replacing seals, verifying and adjusting rinse temperatures, and cleaning and descaling the unit. Regular maintenance will ensure your machine continues to function efficiently, prolonging its lifespan and reducing the likelihood of breakdown.
The cost of planned maintenance varies depending on the service company, the type of machine (undercounter or passthrough), the frequency of maintenance visits (quarterly, biannual or annual), and the length of contract (one or two years).
Most commercial dishwasher suppliers combine maintenance plans with extended warranty that covers the cost of any repairs and replacement parts fitted during the contract period. These packages are designed to provide customers with complete peace of mind.
Reactive Breakdown
No matter how diligent you are with planned maintenance, unforeseen issues can still occur, and this is where reactive breakdown cover comes into play. Reactive breakdown cover involves the repair or replacement of parts in response to unexpected faults or failures. The costs associated with reactive maintenance can vary significantly based on the type of fault and the parts/labour required for the repair. Therefore, setting aside an annual budget for unexpected repairs is a smart move. As discussed earlier, most manufacturers provide maintenance packages that include reactive breakdown cover which provide the benefit of cost predictability.
Together, planned maintenance and reactive breakdown cover help ensure your commercial dishwasher remains in good working condition, thereby maximising its effectiveness and lifespan.
EXTENDED WARRANTY: A WORTHWHILE INVESTMENT?
The majority of commercial dishwashers come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers breakdown caused by mechanical failure for a specified period – typically between one and three years. Beyond this period, businesses are often left to deal with any repair or replacement costs on their own - unless they opt for an extended warranty or maintenance package that includes breakdown cover.
An extended warranty, as the name suggests, prolongs the coverage provided by the manufacturer's warranty, offering added peace of mind to business owners. It works as an insurance against unexpected repair costs that can potentially arise after the standard warranty period has expired.
But is it a worthwhile investment?
The answer can vary based on a number of factors:
- The cost of the extended warranty: This depends on factors, such as the manufacturer, length of coverage and the specific terms and conditions. It's important to carefully assess this cost against the potential benefits.
- The reliability of the dishwasher: If the dishwasher model you're purchasing is known for its reliability and longevity, an extended warranty might not provide as much value. However, if there's uncertainty about its long-term performance or it's a new model with little track record, an extended warranty could be a prudent choice.
- Your tolerance for unexpected costs: If your business operates on tight margins and an unexpected repair bill of several hundred or even thousands of pounds could be a hardship, an extended warranty could provide valuable peace of mind.
- The terms of the warranty: Not all extended warranties are created equal. Some cover nearly any type of repair or failure, while others have many exclusions. Make sure you read the terms and conditions and understand exactly what’s covered before making a decision.
While an extended warranty involves an additional upfront expense, it can help avoid unanticipated costs in the future, particularly if you're investing in a high-end model. It's an additional layer of financial protection that could end up saving you money in the long run.
However, it's important to conduct a cost-benefit analysis, considering both your business's financial situation and the specific terms of the warranty, to determine whether an extended warranty is a worthwhile investment for you.
OPERATING COSTS: DETERGENT, RINSE AID, AND ENERGY CONSUMPTION
It’s also important to consider daily operating costs, including the cost of detergents, rinse aids, and energy consumption, which can significantly impact your overall operational budget over time.
Commercial dishwashers require commercial-grade detergents and rinse aids to ensure a high standard of cleaning. These specialist products also help protect the dishwasher, prolonging its lifespan. However, their cost can add up over time. While it might be tempting to opt for a cheaper product, it is important to bear in mind that using poor quality chemicals will negatively impact the performance of your machine and prevent you from achieving the desired wash results. In the long run, it will likely be more cost-effective to invest in high-quality product.
Read our article explaining why it is important to use high quality detergent and rinse aid to ensure you get the most out of your commercial dishwasher.
ENERGY CONSUMPTION
Commercial dishwashers are high-energy appliances. They use both electricity for operations and hot water, which also requires energy to heat. Thus, energy consumption is a significant part of the dishwasher's operating cost. This expense can vary based on the efficiency of the dishwasher, the energy prices in your region, and the number of wash cycles per day.
Importantly, energy-efficient dishwashers, while potentially costing more upfront, can provide considerable cost savings in the long run. Models with energy-saving features such as heat recovery systems or low water usage can reduce energy consumption and help save on utility bills.
WATER USAGE
In addition to energy, commercial dishwashers also consume a significant amount of water. Each wash cycle can use between one and three gallons of water. Depending on your local water rates, this can add another significant expense to your operational costs.
Understanding the true cost of a commercial dishwasher requires a comprehensive view of all expenses involved, not just the initial purchase price. From installation and maintenance costs to extended warranties and the ongoing costs of operation, all these aspects significantly impact the overall investment.
Ask our team for guidance in understanding these factors so you can make an informed decision that fits both your operational needs and budget.