Trends

Keeping the foodservice equipment marketplace up to date with the latest menu and concept trends.

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Energy Efficiency and Pot and Pan Washers

The Energy Star certification criterion for pot and pan washers has recently been updated.

 

 

In general, pot and pan washers are more efficient systems in terms of water usage when compared to traditional warewashers. These units recirculate wash water that's in the tank and only use fresh water for final rinses, unlike dump and fill dishwashers.

The Environmental Protection Agency's limited idle energy data suggests that pot and pan washers use more energy overall than standard door type machines. As a result, effective Feb. 1, 2012, EPA revised its required idle levels for these units to be similar to standard door type designs. High-temp machines should have idle energy rates less than or equal to 1.20 kW and water consumption less than or equal to 0.58 gallons per square foot of rack space. For low-temp pot and pan washers, idle energy rates should be less than or equal to 1 kW and water consumption less than or equal to .58 gallons per square foot of rack space.