Work smarter, not harder, and save money with these energy-smart solutions.
Scrape then spray.
Dishwashing stations are busy areas, so efficiency is paramount. To improve efficiency, get into the habit of scraping off dishes and pots before spraying them down. This way, less time and effort is needed from the pre-rinse sprayer to rinse off food debris. Behaviors like this help conserve water.
Use water wisely.
Even with a low-flow model, be conscious of the water you are using and avoid being wasteful. Your savings depends largely on how frequently you use your low-flow pre-rinse spray valve. Using the sprayer just one hour a day saves nearly $300 per year in comparison to a conventional sprayer.
To keep your equipment performing efficiently and with the least amount of energy, establish a regular maintenance plan with these maitain and save tips.
Keep the pressure balanced.
The Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) recommends a water pressure of 60 pounds per square inch (psi). High water pressure (80 psi or above) can cause excess splashing and can actually raise water and energy costs in your facility. Water pressure that is too low (40 psi or below) results in longer cleaning times and diminished efficiency. Local water agencies and plumbers can help get water pressure to its most efficient level.
Keep temperatures stable.
Incoming water temperatures vary depending on region, and can affect spray valve performance, energy and water savings. The Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) recommends a water temperature of 120°F for optimal operation.
Clean annually.
Over time, spray valves can develop scale build-up that reduces their efficiency and lengthens cleaning time. Thoroughly cleaning the valve each year can help keep it working like new. However, it may be more practical to replace severely clogged valves. At all costs, avoid “drilling out” the scale, which can harm spray velocity and reduce cleaning performance.
Saving energy dollars begins with choosing the right equipment. Learn which energy-smart features can save you the most money and help you to conserve electricity or gas with these shop smart & save energy dollars tips.
Go with the flow.
The government mandates that all new sprayers must be manufactured with a flow rate of 1.6 gallons per minute (gpm) or less. However, flow rates can be as low as 0.5 gpm. The lower the flow rate, the less water your commercial kitchen consumes. » Learn more
Choose high cleaning performance.
Low-flow pre-rinse sprayers clean just as well as conventional sprayers, largely due to the high water velocity and more effective spray patterns. Based on ASTM testing, you should choose a low-flow pre-rinse spray valve with a cleaning performance specification of at least 26 seconds per plate. 21 seconds per plate is even better.
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