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Guide to Warewashing & Janitorial Equipment
Leasing a Dishmachine (Finance Lease or Operating Lease)
Leasing allows operators to acquire a new machine with no or low upfront cost, paying
over time with the option to own at the end (finance lease) or return/upgrade (operating
lease). Leasing is usually done through an equipment finance company, not a chemical
provider.
Benefits
• Preserves capital and
credit lines — conserve cash
for operations
• Can access higher-end
models you might not afford
outright
• Fixed monthly payments
allow for predictable
budgeting
• Often tax deductible as a
business expense (check
with your accountant)
• Flexibility to own, upgrade,
or return at lease end
Challenges
• Requires good credit or
financial review
• Missed payments can
damage credit or result in
equipment repossession
• May include fees for early
termination
• Some leases include
limited or no maintenance
coverage
• You are responsible
for ongoing service and
compliance
Ideal For:
• Mid-sized
operators
expanding locations
• Facilities planning
for growth but
wanting to defer
capital expense
• Operators
who want asset
ownership without
paying up front
Buying a Dishmachine Outright
Purchasing outright means paying for the full cost of the machine upfront. You
own the asset, and you’re responsible for installation, service, and any repairs after
warranty.
Benefits
• Full ownership and asset
control
• Greater equipment
selection — not limited to
rental stock
• No interest or long-term
payment obligation
• Potential to depreciate the
asset for tax purposes
• Often better ROI over the
full equipment lifecycle
Challenges
• Requires upfront capital
• You assume full
responsibility for repairs and
maintenance
• No bundled service — you
must manage cleaning
chemicals, warranty claims,
etc.
Ideal For:
• Operators with
available capital
and strong
operations teams
• Facilities with in-
house maintenance
or long-term
dishroom planning
• Businesses
seeking to build
asset value and
long-term savings