As the cost of energy continues to put a strain on many businesses, increasing efficiency and lowering energy usage is critical.
In an On-Premise Laundry (“OPL)” or commercial kitchen, there are many ways to be more efficient. But what are the best ways to reduce energy usage and save cost with your commercial washing machine, tumble dryers and dishwasher?
1. Look After Your Machines
A well looked after washing machine, tumble dryer or diswhsher will operate more efficiently. For example, clean down the equipment each time; clean out lint filters on your dryer; clean the soap drawers; and get ducts and grilles cleaned regularly.
2. Full Load Size
Use full loads in your washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher rather than running with half loads.
3. Don’t Overload
Don’t overfill your equipment. In your dryer there needs to be room for air to move around, and in your washing machine and dishwasher the results will be less efficient if overloaded.
4. Lower Temperatures
Wash on lower temperatures where possible (although ensure the correct temperatures are used where required for infection control purposes).
5. Descaling
Descale your washing machine and dishwasher regularly. The Carbon trust found every 1mm of limescale build-up on heating elements adds 7% to its energy consumption.
6. Fast Spin Cycle
Use a fast spin cycle with your washing machine if appropriate, this will drain more excess water from washing loads and take less time to dry.
7. Moisture Sensor
Use the moisture sensor option on your tumble dryer if available, this way you won’t use more energy than required.
8. Use Modern High Quality Equipment
Leading manufacturers continually develop their commercial equipment to be more energy efficient. For example, the market leading Miele Little Giant range of washing machines and tumble dryers use 28% less energy than previous models.
9. Heat Pump Technology
Consider swapping to heat pump tumble dryers, which can reduce energy consumption by 65%. They operate at lower temperatures and use a closed-loop heat exchange to recirculate air, resulting in significant energy savings.
10. Transferring From Washer to Dryer
Give all items a good shake when transferring from washer to dryer. This prevents items from tangling, these items take longer to dry.
11. Vented Tumble Dryer Airway
If your machine is vented, check that the vent hose is not kinked or blocked, this adds time to cycles. Good airways are key to excellent dryer performance.
12. Preventative Maintenance
Regular planned preventative maintenance from your specialist commercial laundry and dishwasher support company ensures your machine stays in the best possible condition and running efficiently.
13. Train Your Team
Regular training on best operating practices ensures your new staff members get updates on the most efficient ways to operate the equipment, and your existing team receive reminders to embed these practices.
14. Contact JTM Service
As well as servicing and repairing existing commercial laundry equipment and dishwashers, and supplying and installing new energy efficient equipment, we can provide bespoke advice and practical solutions to help reduce your energy usage.
At JTM Service we have 40 years’ experience providing support to businesses including Care Homes, Hospitals, Housing, Education, Construction and FM, Animal Care, Sports & Leisure, Hotels and Hospitality. If you have found these 14 Tips useful and would like more information or support on energy saving actions for your commercial washing machine, tumble dryer, ironer or dishwasher, please get in touch at info@jtmservice.co.uk or call 0113 2572221.
