In this comprehensive guide, Ollie Nelson the director of Nelson Commercial Dishwashers provides valuable insights into maintaining commercial dishwashers. The article emphasises the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance for optimal performance and longevity. It covers daily cleaning routines, weekly and monthly deep cleaning tasks, as well as the descaling process. The use of bleach is discussed, highlighting the need to follow manufacturer guidelines. The article concludes by emphasizing the significance of professional repair and maintenance services to address any issues promptly. Overall, by following the guidelines outlined in the article, readers can ensure their commercial dishwashers operate smoothly and efficiently, reducing the risk of downtime and costly repairs.
Maintaining the efficiency and hygiene of your commercial dishwasher is crucial for any food service establishment. To ensure optimal performance and longevity, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will address important aspects of commercial dishwasher cleaning, including methods, frequency, descaling, the use of bleach, and dealing with limescale. By following these guidelines, you can keep your commercial dishwasher running smoothly, avoid costly repairs, and minimize downtime.
HOW TO CLEAN A COMMERCIAL DISHWASHER
A well-maintained commercial dishwasher is essential for a successful food service business. To keep your dishwasher operating efficiently and prevent grime build-up, follow these steps for daily cleaning and periodic deep cleaning:
DAILY CLEANING ROUTINE
After service, remove food debris from the dishwasher's interior, including the filter, wash, and rinse arms.
Clean the interior surfaces with a soft brush and warm water, paying attention to door seals, corners, and hard-to-reach areas.
Important Note: Avoid using soap-based chemicals inside the machine, as any residue can cause foaming and poor results.
Wipe down the exterior surfaces with a damp cloth to maintain a clean and professional appearance.
Reassemble the dishwasher and run a wash cycle to remove any cleaning residue.
WEEKLY AND MONTHLY DEEP CLEANING
Inspect and clean interior components such as wash and rinse arms, nozzles, and filters to remove blockages and build-up.
Thoroughly clean the door gaskets to maintain a proper seal.
Check detergent and rinse aid levels.
Adjust the cleaning schedule based on dishwasher usage, the type of food served, and local health regulations.
DESCALING YOUR COMMERCIAL DISHWASHER
Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate in your dishwasher, affecting performance and potentially damaging components. Regular descaling is necessary to remove these deposits and ensure smooth operation. Follow these steps:
Ensure safety by turning off the dishwasher, wearing protective gear, and removing dishes.
Disconnect and clear detergent by running and draining several cycles.
Add 1 litre of descaling solution and heat the dishwasher.
Run 4-5 wash cycles to remove scale deposits.
Drain, refill, and rinse the dishwasher twice to remove any residual descaling solution.
Reconnect the detergent line.
Wipe down the interior, and your dishwasher is ready for use.
Note: Use a quality descale solution like Nelson Descale for best results. To learn more about descaling, read our article "Commercial Dishwasher Descaling: A Step-By-Step Guide to Keep Your Machine Running Smoothly."
Preventing limescale build-up is possible by using a water treatment system, such as a water softener, demineralisation, or reverse osmosis, in your commercial dishwasher. Read our article on Water Treatment for Commercial Glasswashers for more information.
USING BLEACH IN A COMMERCIAL DISHWASHER
While bleach can effectively remove stains and sanitize surfaces, it may not be suitable for all commercial dishwashers. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines before using bleach or any other cleaning products, as they can cause damage or discoloration. Consider using dishwasher-safe sanitizing solutions or commercial dishwasher detergents designed for your specific dishwasher model.
COMMERCIAL DISHWASHER REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE
Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent many common dishwasher issues. However, if you notice signs of malfunction or poor performance, seek professional help. Qualified commercial dishwasher repair services can diagnose and address these issues, extending the lifespan of your appliance and ensuring optimal performance.
Our in-house team of expert technicians is trained to maintain and repair various brands of commercial dishwashers. Contact Nelson support on 020 8993 6199 or email office@nelsonwash.co.uk to book a service call.
Maintaining a clean and well-functioning commercial dishwasher is essential for any food service establishment. Follow a regular cleaning schedule, descale when necessary, and promptly address repair or maintenance issues to ensure efficient and effective operation. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines for specific recommendations, and reach out to professionals when needed.
By adhering to these practices, you can uphold a clean and sanitary working environment, providing exceptional service to your customers.
Author: Nick Lima
Nelson Dish and Glasswashing Machines Ltd. Unit 1-2 Rowley Industrial Park, Roslin Road, London, W3 8BH
0800 592 833
0800 592 833
