Commercial Dishwashers

For Partners

Commercial dishwashers are found in almost all establishments that use non-disposable dishes, glassware, and utensils; such as restaurants, bars, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, churches, and institutional cafeterias.

Commercial dishwashers can clean and sanitize a large quantity of kitchenware in a short amount of time by utilizing hot water, soap, rinse chemicals, and significant amounts of energy. Size requirements for commercial dishwashing machines can be calculated by estimating the number of individuals served by the food service establishment. This information is a key determinant of the type of dishwasher that is most suited for a facility.

Savings figures:

· About 40 percent more energy efficient and 50 percent more water efficient than standard models

· Save businesses an average of $1,500 annually and more than $19,000 on utility bills over the product’s lifetime when compared to standard models

· Save business 9,500 kWh or 16 MMBTUs annually

Eligible products:

· High and low temp stationary rack machines (undercounter; single tank door type; pot, pan, and utensil; and glass washing)

· Conveyor machines (rack and rack less/flight type, single and multiple tank)

· Certified models must meet maximum water consumption requirements during the final rinse and use less energy while idling between wash cycles

Ineligible products:

· Steam, gas, and other non-electric models

· Dishwashers intended for use in residential or laboratory applications

Additional resources:

· ENERGY STAR CFS Tools, Materials, and Resources

· ENERGY STAR CFS Homepage

Current Specification Effective Date: February 1, 2013

Covers stationary rack machines (undercounter; single tank door-type; pot, pan, and utensil; and glasswashing) and conveyor machines (rack and rackless/flight type, multi and single tank). Products must meet idle energy rate and water consumption limits, as determined by both machine type and sanitation approach (chemical/low temp versus high temp).
ENERGY STAR certified commercial dishwashers can save businesses an average of $1,500 a year on energy bills and over 37,000 gallons of water per year depending on product type.

Commercial Dishwasher Key Product Criteria: ENERGY STAR

Learn How a Product Earns the Label

Helpful resources for buying a commercial dishwasher:

Purchasing ENERGY STAR certified CFS equipment can cut utility costs and maintenance without sacrificing features, quality, or style. Many utilities also offer rebates to offset the purchase price of ENERGY STAR equipment.

ENERGY STAR Where to Buy List

For a list of ENERGY STAR dealers and distributors that sell ENERGY STAR certified equipment, visit the ENERGY STAR Where to Buy List. Please contact CommercialFoodService@energystar.gov if you would like to be added to the list.

ENERGY STAR Rebates

For a list of CFS incentives, please visit the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder.