Maximising the Performance of Your Commercial Dishwasher

In the fast-paced world of hospitality and food service, the commercial dishwasher is an unsung hero of the kitchen. It keeps operations running smoothly, providing a steady supply of clean dishes ready for the next serving. But like any hero, your dishwasher needs the right support to continue performing at its best.

In this guide, we outline steps to improve dishwasher performance, maintain hygiene levels, and extend the lifespan of your machine. From the importance of using the right detergent and correct loading procedures to regular maintenance and staff training, we cover it all.   

How Can I Improve Dishwasher Performance?

Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper cleaning and maintenance is essential to maximise the performance and longevity of your commercial dishwasher. A cleaning programme should be implemented, with daily cleaning tasks and periodic deep cleaning based on the dishwasher's usage and manufacturer's recommendations.

Quick Cleaning Tips:

• Daily Cleaning: Remove food debris, clean interior surfaces, wipe the exterior, and run a wash cycle.
• Weekly/Monthly Deep Cleaning: Inspect and clean interior components, check door gaskets, and ensure detergent and rinse aid levels are adequate.

Regular descaling is crucial to prevent damage to heating elements and other components. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and use a high-quality descaling solution for the best results.

We also recommend booking a full service with a professional technician at least once a year. This will help to identify and remedy any potential faults before they become a problem and ensure the machine is functioning correctly.

For more in-depth information, read our guides on Commercial Dishwasher Cleaning, Descaling and the Importance of Regular Servicing.

Quality of Detergent

The type of detergent used plays an equally important role in the performance of commercial dishwashers. While it might be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, investing in high quality chemicals will significantly improve results and reliability. This is because:

1. Better Cleaning Power: High-quality detergents are formulated to break down and remove tough food residues, grease, and stains, leaving your dishes sparkling clean.
2. Protection for Dishes and Machine: Premium detergents contain ingredients that protect your dishes and the dishwasher itself, prolonging their lifespan.
3. Enhanced Efficiency: Superior detergents require less quantity per wash, offering better value in the long run.

Correct Loading

Incorrect loading of plates and crockery into the basket will result in dirty plates, wasted resources, and potential damage to the dishwasher itself. Follow the tips below to get the most out of your machine: 

1. Pre-Rinse Dishes: Pre-rinse dishes to remove any large food particles.
2. Load Strategically: Place dishes so they do not obstruct water jets, ensuring that every dish gets adequately cleaned.
3. Avoid Overloading: Overloading the dishwasher can prevent dishes from being cleaned properly. Always adhere to the machine's capacity.
4. Use the Right Baskets: Make sure dishes are placed in the correct baskets to avoid breakage.

Water Pressure and Quality

Water Pressure

Water pressure determines how effectively food residues and grease are removed from dishes. Too low and dishes might not be cleaned adequately. Too high and damage can be caused to dishes. It's important to:

1. Regularly Check Water Pressure: Ensure the water pressure is within the manufacturer's recommended range.
2. Monitor for Fluctuations: If you notice any sudden changes in water pressure, it might be a sign that a problem needs addressing.

Water Quality and Treatment

Water quality plays a big part in the performance and longevity of commercial dishwashers. Hard water, which contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, can lead to:

1. Limescale Buildup: Over time, hard water can cause limescale to accumulate in the dishwasher damaging its components.
2. Poor Cleaning Results: Hard water can reduce the effectiveness of detergent, resulting in dishes that aren't properly cleaned.

To combat these issues, consider the following water treatment options:

1. Water Softeners: These devices remove calcium and magnesium ions from the water, preventing limescale build up.
2. Filtration Systems: Filtration systems can remove impurities from the water, improving its quality and the dishwasher's performance.
3. Chemical Treatment: Certain chemicals can be used to treat water, improving its quality and preventing limescale build up.

For more information, read our article on Water Treatment for Glass & Dishwashers

Staff Training & Education

When your team knows exactly how to operate and maintain the machine, you are both improving the efficiency of your operation maximising the return on investment. 

What Nelson Offers:

We recognise the importance of educating customers on how to use and look after our machines.. That's why we provide comprehensive training that includes:

• On-site Training: Our technicians provide in-person training at your location so your team understands how to operate the dishwasher, perform routine cleaning and maintenance tasks, and troubleshoot common issues.
• Educational Materials: In addition to on-site training, we provide a range of guides and tutorials that customers can refer back to. These include user manuals, cleaning guides, maintenance checklists, and more.

Benefits of Staff Training & Education:

• Improved Machine Performance: Well-trained staff operate the dishwasher in the most efficient manner to deliver optimal performance.
• Reduced Risk of Breakdowns: Proper operation and regular maintenance will prevent common issues that lead to breakdown.
• Increased Machine Lifespan: Correct care and usage will extend the lifespan of your commercial dishwasher.
• Compliance with Health & Safety Regulations: Adequate training ensures that staff are aware of and adhere to relevant health and safety regulations.

Owning a commercial dishwasher is not just about having a machine that cleans dishes; it's about investing in an asset that plays a critical role in the efficiency and success of your food service operation. As we've outlined in this guide, optimising the performance and extending the life of your commercial dishwasher involves a multi-faceted approach. From choosing the right detergent to implementing regular cleaning and maintenance routines, each aspect contributes to the machine's overall performance and longevity. In summary, a commercial dishwasher is more than a one-time investment; it's a long-term commitment that, when managed properly, pays off in spades.

Get in Touch

Feel free to contact us for more information on purchasing or caring for your commercial dishwasher.