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Guide to Warewashing & Janitorial Equipment
Overflow Machines:
Efficient for High-Volume Use
02
Overflow machines maintain a single detergent solution in the wash tank, gradually
diluting it with each rinse. As fresh water enters during the rinse phase, it overflows
into the wash tank, displacing the dirtiest water through an exit drain or overflow pipe.
This continuous flow helps preserve water and energy across cycles.
Key Characteristics:
• Wash water is reused and gradually refreshed
• Designed for high throughput environments
• Often found in conveyor and flight-type machines
• Lower water consumption per cycle, especially at scale
Pros:
• More energy- and water-
efficient over the long run
• Ideal for operations with
consistent, high-volume
warewashing needs
• Often paired with
advanced filtration systems
to keep water clean longer
Cons:
• Increased risk of soil
redeposits if pre-rinse
procedures are not followed
• Cleaning and maintenance
routines become more critical
to avoid biofilm or buildup
• May not meet the specific
standards required in ultra-
sanitary environments
without additional safeguards
Best For: Busy commercial kitchens, cafeterias, banquet facilities, and institutions
where throughput and resource efficiency are top priorities.
Feature
Dump & Fill
Overflow
Water Usage
Higher
Lower
Hygiene Level
Highest (fresh water each
cycle)
High, but depends on filtra-
tion
Cycle Time
Slightly longer (drain & refill)
Faster, continuous
Energy Efficiency
Moderate
High
Maintenance
Simpler but more frequent
draining
Requires better filtration
maintenance & clean outs
Ideal For
Healthcare, fine dining, aller-
gen-sensitive kitchens
High-volume restaurants,
hotels, institutions
Selecting the right system depends on your kitchen’s operational rhythm, cleanliness standards,
and utility cost sensitivity. While Dump & Fill systems are ideal for precision and purity, Overflow
systems shine in continuous-use environments where speed and conservation matter.