Buying an industrial washer is much different than buying a traditional residential model. Whereas a residential model will be in operation a few times per week, an industrial model in a retail laundromat could easily be running 10 to 12 hours daily. In larger operations that involve hotel services or other hospitality environments, washers could be running around the clock. Simply put, industrial washers have to be able to survive the wear and tear that continuous friction and heat put upon belts, bearings, and motors.

In terms of buying the best commercial-grade washer, you need to look at the features that determine how many loads a washer can do per year.

1. Capacity

For an industrial-strength washer, you will likely need a unit with a capacity of at least 10 to 25 kilograms. Mid-range units can hold a volume of 30 to 60 kilograms. That said, you will, of course, need extra capacity for king-sized linens and comforters because they are large. However, when soaked with water, they are also extremely heavy and can result in undue wear and tear on the motor of smaller units. For instances that involve washing repeated loads of heavy material, you might need a washer with mega-load capacity capable of handling between 80 and 160 kilograms. For larger volumes, it is best to seek out a reputable dealer with stock on hand. For instance, such dealers as Richard Jay Industrial Washing Machines will have models you just cannot find elsewhere.

2. Load position

The load position represents how a washer can be loaded, and the position can be from the front or from the top. If you plan on hauling linens and clothes on a cart, which can be placed beside a washer, you might opt for a front loader as you can simply roll the laundry into the washer. However, if you are filling a laundromat and need a row of washers, you might opt for a top-load washer because people will not have to bend in order to fill the bin.

3. Electricity

Most commercial-grade washers require a dedicated 240-volt line to the circuit breaker. In terms of amperage, the range is usually 30 or 50.

4. Motor

You should look for a model of at least .75 horsepower (hp), which is the most common size. However, motors capable of a full horsepower are available and are especially useful for high-volume operations with machines that run non-stop. Smaller units can have a .33 hp motor, but smaller motors cannot create as much torque and are only for operations experiencing lighter loads.

5. G-force

In terms of spin, the gravitational force created as the washer’s bin spins is measured in G-force where one G is the equivalent of one standard unit of the Earth’s gravitation. Two Gs, for instance, will equal a force twice that of the Earth’s gravitation. To create enough centrifugal force to extract water from the clothes, a commercial-grade washer with a rigid suspension should generate approximately 200 Gs. The same washer with a soft suspension should generate up to 400 Gs.

6. Dimensions

Because many facilities will require multiple units, the size of your laundry facility will largely dictate the size of the washers and how well they can be positioned alongside one another. The width can range from 30 inches up to 45 inches, and the depth can measure 30 inches up to 50 inches. Although the height of various units will not range as widely as their width and depth, the height will typically range between 43 inches and 55 inches.

7. Construction

Most commercial-grade drums will be made of stainless steel. This material will endure all the abuse customers or employees heap upon the washer. However, the material also endures the forces created by the spinning motor and the massive amounts of weight.

You should also ensure the sides, walls, and tops are stainless steel. For the best possible performance, you should also ensure the knobs or buttons are metal alloy or steel. That said, some units use a porcelain-enamel top, which can be just as durable for daily loads. Similarly, the porcelain-enamel top will not conduct heat, ensuring the safe operation of washers, which can produce extremely high temperatures.