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Guide to Warewashing & Janitorial Equipment
What Makes a Warewasher ENERGY STAR® Certified?
ENERGY STAR® dishmachines must meet or exceed benchmarks across multiple metrics:
• Gallons/litres per rack — minimized without sacrificing cleaning power
• Idle energy rate — reduced heat loss while sitting between cycles
• Cycle energy — optimized heater and pump usage
• Soil-sensing technology — some advanced machines adjust cycle length based on
actual soil load
• Efficient rinse systems — redesigned spray arms and nozzles for better coverage with
less water
Many newer models also include:
• Low-energy standby modes
• Heat recovery systems that reuse rinse water heat for the next cycle
• Integrated booster heaters that are more efficient than standalone units
Additional Benefits
• Rebate Programs: Many Canadian provinces and municipalities offer off-invoice or
post-purchase energy-efficiency rebates for commercial kitchens upgrading to ENERGY
STAR® equipment.
• Utility Cost Visibility: Manufacturers often provide calculators to estimate annual
savings based on your usage volume and local utility rates.
Sustainability Credentials: Facilities aiming for environmental certifications or branding
benefits (especially institutional or hospitality operators) are increasingly expected to
select ENERGY STAR® rated appliances.
Questions to Ask Before
Buying:
• Does the unit have an ENERGY
STAR® label (look for Canadian
certification)?
• What is the water consumption per
rack at standard load?
• What is the idle energy rate
(especially for conveyor systems)?
• Does it require a condensate hood,
or is there heat recovery?
• Are there local rebates available for
ENERGY STAR® equipment?
Efficiency isn’t just about
the environment — it’s about
protecting your bottom
line. Over the lifespan of
your machine (typically
10–15 years), an ENERGY
STAR® certified warewasher
can pay for itself through
reduced utility costs and
longer-lasting components.
And in today’s regulatory
environment, kitchens that
invest in sustainability are often
rewarded — with lower costs,
better public perception, and
compliance peace of mind.