Take 5 warewashers
Choosing the right warewasher is a balancing act - price will always be a critical factor, but these days running costs should weigh at least as heavily in the buying decision. There's a machine for every type and size of kitchen and here we showcase five models.
ADAPTS TO CHANGING NEEDS
Price £4,110
We say The UC-S can be configured as a glass, dish or - for washing glasses and dishes at the same time - a bistro washer. The touchscreen control panel can be set by the operator to clean off different types of food for best results.
Features
â- Three standard wash programmes
â- Intuitive and interactive smart screen display
Dimensions 460mm(w) x 603mm(d) x 715mm(h)
Winterhalter 01908 359000
TAILOR TO YOUR NEEDS
Price £1,365
We say Features are offered as optional extras so the caterers can tailor the machine to their specific needs without paying for functions they have no use for. The range of options includes WRAS approved break tank, internal water softener, drain pump and a choice of 13 or 20 amp supply.
Features â- Top and bottom stainless steel wash arms.
â- Rinse and detergent pumps
â- 2.5 litres water consumption per cycle.
Dimensions 580mm(w) x 610mm(d) x 840mm(h)
DC Catering 01749 870055
CAPACITY FOR LARGE ITEMS
Price £12,118
We say An electronically controlled warewasher with the capacity to handle washware as big as 650 x 530 mm (2/1 Gastronorm) size and up to 60 650mm x 530mm baskets per hour.
Features â- Three wash programmes
â- Aktiv-Plus wash water filter system
â- EWS technology to reduce water consumption
Dimensions (hood closed) 660mm(w) x 750mm(d) x 1590mm(h)
Meiko 01753 215120
INTERMEDIATE OPTIONSNelson Speedwash 900
We say A free-standing upright dishwasher designed for operators who need a greater capacity than an undercounter model can provide but who don't need or have space for a pass through machine.
Features â- One or two minute wash cycle
â- 500mm square baskets washing up to 900 items per hour
â- Sloping wash tanks and shallow wash reservoirs to reduce water and chemical consumption
Dimensions 600mm(w) x 610mm(d) x 1185mm(h)
Nelson Glass & Dishwashers 020 8993 6198
WATER-SAVING STEAM RINSING
Price £5,990
We say Incorporates VAPO-RINSE steam rinsing technology which uses 36% less water and 40% less rinse aid than conventional machines and provides 100% coverage, eliminating shielded areas.
Features â- Cycle status indicator
â- Steam injection cutlery cycle
â- Extended drying programme for a quick turnaround
Dimensions 600mm(w) x 600mm(d) x 820mm(h)
Hobart 0844 888 7777
BUYERS' CHECKLIST
â- Filter system Filter systems save on water use because less fresh water is required for each washing cycle. Less water also means the machine uses less chemicals and less energy, too.
â- Automatic detergent dosing To ensure best results the dosing of detergents and rinse aid need to be set correctly. Problems with smearing can often be the result of too little or too much of a chemical. Many machines have an automatic dosing system to minimise errors.
â- Ease of use Many machines have simple one touch controls that allow unskilled operators to run with machine with minimal training.
â- Service and maintenance follow-up Dish and glass washers have a hard life and any piece of equipment that uses water is going to need looking after. Check that the manufacturer offers service back up and that spare parts are easily available.
â- Hygiene Check the tank for joins or folds that can trap dirt. There are machines with an automatic drain down and wash programme that can be run at the end of the day.
Source The Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA)www.cesa.org.uk
