What is the correct wash temperature for a commercial dishwasher?
The correct wash temperature for a commercial dishwasher should be between 55-60°C. This range is crucial to ensure that the alkaline chemicals in detergents work effectively to break down and remove soiling from dishes, cutlery, and other kitchenware.
Common misunderstanding: Any hot temperature is sufficient for a commercial dishwasher.
Not all hot temperatures are effective. The specific range of 55-60°C is necessary to activate the cleaning chemicals properly and ensure they perform as intended.
Common misunderstanding: Lower temperatures can be used if the dishwasher runs longer.
Extending the dishwasher's run time does not compensate for the required temperature range. Lower temperatures fail to activate the detergents properly, leading to poor cleaning results.
Why is maintaining 55-60°C important for effective cleaning?
Maintaining a temperature range of 55-60°C in a commercial dishwasher is essential for the effectiveness of the cleaning chemicals. At this temperature, the alkaline detergents are activated to efficiently break down grease, food residues, and other contaminants.
Common misunderstanding: The temperature only affects the speed of cleaning.
It's not just about speed; the temperature directly impacts the chemical reaction necessary for the detergents to work effectively. Without the correct temperature, these reactions do not occur efficiently, compromising the cleaning quality.
Common misunderstanding: Higher temperatures than 60°C might improve cleaning efficiency.
Exceeding 60°C can be as problematic as lower temperatures. It may lead to faster degradation of the equipment and excessive energy consumption without additional cleaning benefits.
What happens if the wash temperature is too low?
If the wash temperature is too low, below 55°C, the detergents do not activate properly, leading to ineffective cleaning. This can result in dishes not being properly sanitised, posing a risk of harmful bacteria and pathogens surviving the wash cycle.
Common misunderstanding: A low temperature wash is adequate for lightly soiled items.
Even lightly soiled items require the minimum temperature to ensure all bacteria and residues are effectively removed. Lower temperatures might leave residues and bacteria on dishes.
Common misunderstanding: If the dishwasher appears to clean well, temperature doesn’t matter.
Visual cleanliness doesn't guarantee sanitisation. Proper temperatures are required to ensure all microorganisms are killed, not just visible soiling removed.