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Guide to Warewashing & Janitorial Equipment
There are two primary types of conveyor machines: single-tank and multi-tank systems.
Single-tank models are best suited for moderate to high-volume operations that require fast
turnaround but handle wares with a relatively consistent soil load. Multi-tank systems add a
pre-wash or power-rinse stage, making them ideal for heavy soil conditions or facilities that
serve multiple meal periods back-to-back without the opportunity to pre-scrape extensively.
Both types can process 150 to 300+ racks per hour, depending on configuration and operator
proficiency.
Available in high-temp and low-temp models, conveyor dishwashers generally lean toward
high-temp sanitation because of the volume they handle and the need to reduce chemical
use at scale. Most include built-in booster heaters to ensure final rinse temperatures reach
180°F (82°C). Due to the large amount of steam generated, they will typically require a Type 2
condensate hood, and in some cases, a custom-designed ventilation solution to meet local
code for exhaust air management.
Conveyor dishwashers’ labour efficiency is one of its main benefits. These dishmachines
greatly reduce idle time and maintain pace during peak operations by enabling one employee
to continuously input racks into the machine while another unloads clean wares. This can
lead to faster table turnover, less hours worked, and better sanitary uniformity throughout the
course of a day, especially in big institutional settings. Modern conveyor dishwashers come
equipped with a range of performance-enhancing features, including auto- start sensors,
rack counters, programmable cycles, and integrated energy-saving systems. Many ENERGY
STAR® certified models offer low water consumption rates, averaging just 0.5 to 0.7 gallons
per rack (2–3 litres), even at maximum capacity. Some models also include heat recovery
or energy exchange modules, which reduce the need for booster heater energy and improve
sustainability metrics — a growing priority in LEED-certified or environmentally conscious
facilities.