Restaurants often have commercial dishwashing machines that can wash dishes quickly due to several reasons:
High capacity: Commercial dishwashers are designed to handle large volumes of dishes, glasses, and utensils simultaneously. They have larger compartments and racks, allowing for efficient cleaning of multiple items in a single cycle. In contrast, household dishwashers are typically smaller and have a lower capacity.
Higher water temperature: Commercial dishwashers can reach higher water temperatures, often exceeding 140°F (60°C). The hot water aids in quickly breaking down and removing grease, grime, and food particles. Household dishwashers usually operate at lower temperatures to ensure safety and energy efficiency.
Powerful water jets and spray arms: Commercial dishwashers are equipped with strong water jets and high-pressure spray arms that can blast away stubborn dirt and residue from dishes. These powerful mechanisms contribute to faster and more thorough cleaning. Household dishwashers have less forceful water jets to prevent damage to delicate items.
Longer wash cycles at higher intensity: Commercial dishwashers often have longer wash cycles compared to household dishwashers. The extended duration, combined with higher intensity cleaning methods, ensures more thorough cleaning and sanitization. In contrast, household dishwashers focus on shorter cycles for energy and water conservation.
Specialized features and chemicals: Commercial dishwashers may have additional features, such as built-in water softeners, booster heaters, and specialized detergents or sanitizers. These elements help tackle tough stains, disinfect dishes, and ensure optimal cleaning results. Household dishwashers prioritize simplicity and convenience, with fewer specialized features.
Cost and space considerations: Commercial dishwashers are expensive and take up significant space. They are designed for heavy-duty use and continuous operation in a restaurant setting. In contrast, household dishwashers are designed for smaller-scale usage, affordability, and to fit within the constraints of a typical kitchen.
While there are some high-end residential dishwashers that offer enhanced features and faster cycles, they may not match the speed and capacity of commercial-grade machines. Additionally, the cost and space requirements of commercial dishwashers make them impractical for most home kitchens.
It's important to note that advancements in technology continue to improve household dishwashers, and newer models are becoming more efficient and faster. However, the commercial-grade speed and performance are primarily reserved for professional settings where high demand and rapid turnover of dishes are expected.