Understanding Commercial Dishwasher Types: Under-Counter, Door-Type, or Conveyor

In a busy commercial kitchen, a dependable dishwasher is the unsung hero—keeping plates, glassware, and utensils sanitized and ready for service. Choosing the right type can streamline your dish room, save on utility bills, and ensure food safety compliance. At RestaurantEquipment.com, we guide you through the three major commercial dishwasher types: under-counter, door-type, and conveyor dishwashers.

Why Choosing the Right Dishwasher Matters

✔ Efficiency & Speed – A fast machine keeps up with your peak service demands.
✔ Space Optimization – Choose a dishwasher that fits your kitchen layout.
✔ Utility Use – Different models vary widely in water and energy consumption.
✔ Sanitation & Compliance – Proper equipment is essential for health-code standards.

⚙️ 1. Under-Counter Dishwashers

What They Are

These compact, “lift-the-lid” machines look like commercial versions of home units. They’re ideal for smaller operations like cafés, bars, and small restaurant kitchens.

Pros

• Small Footprint – Typically fit beneath counter space.

• Lower Initial Cost – Less investment compared to larger models.

• Ease of Use – Simple loading and unloading process.

Cons

• Limited Throughput – Usually 30–60 racks/hour.

• Operator Labor – Manual rinsing and loading are required.

• Less Efficient at Scale – Not built for high-volume settings.

Best For

✔ Coffee shops, food courts, or bars with light dish volumes.

🔗 View under-counter dishwasher options

🚪 2. Door‑Type (Pass‑Through) Dishwashers

What They Are

Also known as hood or pass-through dishwashers, users slide a hood up, load racks, and close it before the sanitizing cycle.

Pros

• Moderate Capacity – 80–180 racks/hour.

• One-Piece Sanitizing Cycle – Wash, rinse, and sanitize all in one go.

• Energy Efficient – Some models offer heat-recovery features.

Cons

• Floor Space Required – Taller and roomier than under-counter units.

• Higher Initial Cost – More expensive than the smaller units.

• Installation Needs – Requires proper electrical and plumbing setup.

Best For

✔ Full-service restaurants and mid-sized catering venues.

🔗 Explore door-type dishwasher models

🏭 3. Conveyor (Flight) Dishwashers

What They Are

Built for volume, these machines move racks or dishes on a conveyor belt through wash, rinse, and sanitize chambers.

Pros

• Heavy-Duty Throughput – 200–600 racks/hour.

• Hands-Off Operation – Minimal labor once loaded.

• Water & Energy Savings – Soak or recirculation features reduce resource use.

Cons

• Large Footprint – Requires significant space and installation planning.

• High Initial Investment – Most expensive type.

• Maintenance Demands – Pumps, belts, and spray systems require upkeep.

Best For

✔ Institutional kitchens, schools, hospitals, banquet halls, and high-volume operations.

🔗 View conveyor dishwasher lineup

🧮 Comparing the Dishwashers

💧 Energy & Water Use

At RestaurantEquipment.com, we highlight models that offer efficient utility consumption:

• ENERGY STAR® rated door-type washers

• Conveyor models with heat recovery and recirculation

• Under-counter units with eco-saving cycles

🧼 Installation & Maintenance

• Under-counter: Straightforward installation with standard water and power

• Door-type: Needs decent overhead clearance and dedicated water heater

• Conveyor: Requires floor drains, ventilation hoods, and possibly booster heaters

✅ For any model, plan for daily cleaning, weekly maintenance, and periodic sanitizing tank sweeps.

✅ Choosing the Right Dishwasher

Start with these questions:

1. What’s your daily dish volume?

2. How much space is available?

3. What utilities are installed (gas, 208/240V)?

4. What are your budget and ROI expectations?

5. Do you need flexibility for catered or mobile events?

We can help you pick the perfect dishwasher model that aligns with your operation’s size and needs.

⚙️ Why Shop with RestaurantEquipment.com?

✔ Full selection of dishwasher types—counter, hood, conveyor
✔ Competitive pricing and rapid national shipping
✔ Accessory inventory: racks, detergents, booster heaters
✔ Expert customer support with over 40 years of experience

🔗 Shop all commercial dishwashers

Choosing the right commercial dishwasher—from compact under-counter, to mid-size door-type, to high-capacity conveyor models—can transform your dish room efficiency and resource usage. Match capacity, space, and budget, and trust RestaurantEquipment.com to deliver the right machine for the job.