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How to get the best from your commercial washing machine

March 5, 2022 / Wolf News

Commercial washing machines. Great when they’re working properly but what happens if things go wrong?

Unexpected costs, the expense and disruption of downtime – the repercussions don’t really bear thinking about. Important then, to ensure your equipment is properly maintained and running efficiently.

Sounds sensible doesn’t it? But how do you achieve this? Here leading suppliers of commercial laundry equipment, Wolf Laundry, share some of their top tips on how to get the best from your commercial washing machine.    

Top tips for peak performance

1.      Buy right

If you’re going to get the best out for your machine, it’s important to make sure you’re using the right equipment in the first place. Commercial washing machines come in a range of sizes, so be sure to do your research first to find the ideal solution for your setup. You need a model that can accommodate your typical load size to ensure you’re not at risk of regularly over – or under – loading.

2.      Read the instructions

It’s a basic one but you’ll be surprised (or maybe you won’t!) by how few people actually take the time to read the instruction manual. Ideally, your machine will be intuitive and easy to use. But a quick read of the instructions is still worthwhile, helping to ensure you’re not missing anything that could be detrimental to the operation of the machine or affect its lifespan. It may also highlight programmes and useful features you aren’t aware of.

3.      Hot wash

A commercial washing machine is unlikely to get much time off. Constant cycles take their toll, meaning dirt and bacteria can build up. This is especially true if you tend to wash on cooler cycles.

To combat this, try to find a window to run an empty hot wash, roughly once a week, to keep on top of things. 

4.      Check for damage

The inlet and outlet hose are fundamental to a commercial washing machine, so be sure to check them regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Cracks, blisters, or anything that doesn’t look completely normal, should be checked out by a professional service engineer to prevent potential problems.

Likewise, it’s advisable to examine the belt for signs of fraying, so you can arrange a replacement before it snaps and avoid interruption to service.

5.      Leave the door open

It’s unavoidable that the inside of a washing machine is a damp environment but if mould starts to grow it will hamper the quality of your wash. So how do you stop damp from becoming a problem?

The trick is to leave the washing machine door ajar when not in use. This allows moisture to escape and the machine’s inners to ventilate and dry.

6.      Clean

A hot wash will clean the depths of the machine, but the door, seals and soap dispenser will also benefit from a thorough clean and wipe round by hand,  and it’s essential to make this a regular part of your routine.  

7.      Choose the right detergent

You’ve invested in quality equipment, so why not use quality detergent as well? All too often people cut corners using substandard soaps, which reduce the quality of wash results.

Be careful about what goes into your machine and use quality detergent and fabric softeners. Important here to also make sure you use the right amount. Too much and you’re wasting money and overloading the machine, too little and you won’t get the clean you’re looking for. For the perfect quantity every wash, it’s worth considering automatic dosing for your machine.

8.      Sign up for a service contract

With the best will in the world, you’re not a trained engineer, so the best way to maximise the life span and functionality of your commercial washing machine is to sign up for a servicing contract.

Not only is this a great way to stay on top of maintenance and to spot potential issues before they become a problem, but it will give you peace of mind that you will receive fast and efficient help when you need it most. With a pay monthly deal – such as our One Care package – you can relax knowing you’re covered for all breakdowns and servicing within one single monthly payment, making budgeting a breeze.

Talk to Wolf

Keen to get the best out of your commercial washing machine? Then talk to the team at Wolf Laundry. As leading suppliers of commercial ware washing equipment, we not only identify and supply the best washing solutions for all sectors, we can also install, maintain and repair, with a comprehensive service built around you.

To find out more about what we do, talk to the team today on 01226 714 515 or fill in our contact form and we’ll be back in touch soon.