How to Maintain Your Commercial Dishwasher for Longevity and Performance

Maintaining your commercial dishwasher is crucial for ensuring it operates at peak efficiency, provides the best cleaning results, and lasts as long as possible. Regular maintenance can prevent breakdowns, save money on repairs, and ensure your dishes come out clean and sanitary every time.

Our guide outlines essential tips and routines for keeping your commercial dishwasher running smoothly, including cleaning, descaling, and professional servicing.

Daily Maintenance Tasks

1. Clean the Filters - One of the simplest yet most effective maintenance tasks is cleaning the dishwasher's filters daily. Remove any food debris and rinse the filters under running water. This prevents clogs and ensures water flows freely, improving cleaning efficiency.

2. Rinse Before Loading - While commercial dishwashers are designed to handle heavy-duty cleaning, pre-rinsing dishes can significantly reduce the strain on your machine and minimise the risk of clogs from large food particles.

3. Inspect Spray Arms - Check the spray arms for clogs and clean out the nozzles with a thin wire or needle. A blocked spray arm can lead to uneven cleaning and increased water usage.

4. Leave The Door Open – once the dishwasher has been shut down and cleaned at the end of service, leave open the door or hood as this allows the machine to dry out and air can circulate. Failure to do this allows bacteria to thrive in a moist atmosphere.

Weekly Maintenance Tasks

1. Deep Clean the Interior - Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft brush or cloth to clean the interior surfaces of the dishwasher, including the walls, door, and gaskets. This helps remove any grease buildup and prevents mold and mildew growth.

2. Check and Clean the Wash and Rinse Arms - Dismantle the wash and rinse arms to thoroughly clean them, ensuring there are no blockages in the jets. This maintains the effectiveness of each wash cycle.

Monthly Maintenance Tasks

1. Descaling - Hard water can lead to limescale buildup, which affects the dishwasher's performance and longevity. Use a commercial descaler to clean the machine monthly, or more frequently if you're in a very hard water area. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for descaling to protect the internal components.

2. Inspect Door Seals - Check the door seals (gaskets) for any signs of wear or damage. Replace them if necessary to prevent leaks and maintain energy efficiency.

Semi-Annual Professional Servicing

1. Schedule Professional Inspections - Even with diligent in-house maintenance, it's crucial to have your dishwasher inspected by a professional technician at least twice a year. They will perform a comprehensive check of all mechanical and electrical components, identify issues that might not be obvious, and perform necessary repairs or adjustments.

2. Calibration and Adjustments - A professional can calibrate your dishwasher to ensure it's operating at the optimal settings for your specific needs, potentially saving you money on utilities and detergent costs.

Additional Tips for Optimal Performance

Use the Right Detergents
Always use commercial-grade detergents and rinse aids. These are formulated to work effectively with your specific type of dishwasher and water hardness.

Train Your Staff
Make sure all staff members who operate the dishwasher are trained in proper loading techniques, cleaning procedures, and what should not be washed in the machine (e.g., certain plastics, wooden utensils, aluminium trays).

Keep a Maintenance Log
Document all cleaning, maintenance, and servicing activities. A well-kept log can help you track the health of your dishwasher over time and can be invaluable for troubleshooting issues.

Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring your commercial dishwasher operates efficiently and lasts for many years. By following these daily, weekly, and monthly routines, and scheduling semi-annual professional servicing, you can avoid costly repairs, reduce downtime, and ensure your dishes always meet the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Investing time into maintaining your dishwasher is investing in the success and reputation of your business.

For more information on Intellico’s servicing and repairs, get in touch today.

Thanks,
Richard Hose
Owner, Intellico Dishwashers & Glasswashers

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