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Guide to Warewashing & Janitorial Equipment
Rental vs. Buying vs. Leasing
— What’s the Best Approach for
Dishmachines?
Choosing the right commercial dishmachine is only part of the decision. Equally
important is how you acquire it: Should you buy it outright, lease it over time, or rent it
through a service provider? The answer depends on your business model, cash flow,
equipment lifespan expectations, and service capabilities. Let’s explore each option in
detail — rental, leasing, and outright purchase — along with the benefits & risks for each.
Renting a Dishmachine
In a rental model, an operator typically pays a monthly fee to a chemical supply company
or third-party service provider in exchange for full use of the machine. Most rental
agreements also include detergent supply, routine maintenance, and break/fix service.
Benefits
• No upfront capital cost
— ideal for startups or
locations with limited cash
• Full-service model —
includes preventative
maintenance, repairs, and
parts
• Often bundled with
chemical delivery and
training
• Simplifies budgeting with a
flat monthly fee
• Quick replacement if
machine fails — minimizes
downtime
Challenges
• Over time, total cost can
exceed purchase price
• You may have limited
equipment options (based
on supplier inventory)
• Contracts can be
restrictive — some require
multi-year terms
• Ownership stays with the
supplier — no asset value on
your books
• Rental units may be
refurbished or lower spec
Ideal For:
• New restaurants
• High-turnover
operators
• Locations without
internal maintenance
capability
• Businesses wanting
a hassle-free, service-
inclusive solution
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Guide to Warewashing & Janitorial Equipment