Warewashing is the process of cleaning and sanitizing soiled dishes using chemical and mechanical action, temperature and time. All warewashers use chemical detergents as part of the chemical action, but there are two different methods for sanitizing dishes during the final rinse stage.
High and Low Temperature Washers
Sanitation
High temperature machines come with a built-in booster heater that raises your water to the proper temperature and boosters deliver either a 40°F or 70°F rise to incoming final rinse water, and do not require the use of chemicals. Dishes are flash dried which reduces bacterial growth.
Low temperature machines utilize chemical sanitizer during the final rinse stage removing the need for a boost in hot water temperature.
Advantage:
High Temperature Washers
Energy and Water Consumption
High temperature machines consume less gallons per rack which saves on water bills. They have a shorter wash cycle and can wash more racks per hour, as well as a decrease in the amount of pooled water on dish room.
Low temperature machines use a lower water temperature which may lower machine costs. A booster heater is not required for proper sanitizing since this machine uses chemicals.
Advantage:
High Temperature Washers
Cleaning Effectiveness
High temperature machines dissolve greases and lipsticks which may increase efficiency since items do not have to be cleaned multiple times.
Low temperature machines may not always dissolve greases and lipstick, creating need to rewash many dishes.
Advantage:
High Temperature Washers
Use of Chemicals
High temperature machines do not require the use of chemicals for sanitization.
Low temperature machines require sanitizer for disinfecting dishes. Improper chemical concentration will not sanitize dishes if too low or may become toxic if too high. Chlorine sanitizer may corrode pipes, etch glass and leave a chlorine taste on ware.
Advantage:
High Temperature Washers
Safety
High temperature machines, specifically undercounter units, may create steam and can damage countertops. High temperature water may injure the operator, and if water pressure is too high the final rinse water can vaporize.
Low temperature machines create less steam and heat and are therefore safer for operators and their surroundings.
Advantage:
Low Temperature Washers
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