Features worth paying for

Alliance Laundry Systems regional sales director Ghassan Majdalani examines the complex world of washer extractors and considers how much merit there is in all today's additional features.

Hoteliers are constantly asking ‘what kind of washer-extractor do I really need?', and their follow-up queries are normally ‘what features will pay dividends and which ones are just unnecessary add-ons I'll never use?'.

Of course each application is different, but I believe a variety of features are important for properties that are committed to high-quality finished results, while also keeping operating costs in check.

Number one on my list every time is high-speed G-force extraction (300 G-force is optimum). This feature will net immediate and noticeable improvement in a laundry - particularly if the washer-extractors currently used by properties include products with only 140 or even 86 G-force.

The gains are simple: higher G-force extraction means more water is being removed from the linens during the extract portion of the cycle. That translates into decreased drying times and, as a result, reduced utility consumption. But also be conscious that there are diminishing returns above about 300 G-force. So paying extra for 400 G-force may only produce results on par with a 300 G-force machine.

Programmable microprocessor controls also rank among top features, so much so, they're practically the norm at many properties. These controls enable managers to develop wash cycles specifically suited for their particular linens - basic electromechanical controls just do not have that flexibility.

Linens that receive great care end up looking and feeling great - I think we all can agree our guests expect and deserve the highest quality. An added benefit comes in linen life. Linens that are processed correctly will last longer than those abused or subjected to a general wash cycle. Your investment in a high quality control for your washer-extractor ends up preserving your investment in higher quality linens.

Along with programmable controls, washer-extractors with a variety of water levels can offer returns as well. Again, having a wider range of programmable water levels enables managers to better tailor cycles.

Even small tweaks to water levels can produce savings of tens of thousands of litres of water annually for average size laundries.If just a small portion of that water is hot or warm, laundries see additional utility savings by not having to heat as much water.

Keeping with the water theme, give careful thought to the number of fill valves of your washer-extractor. Two valves is the norm but upgrading to a model with three or four can cut fill times significantly. That means shorter cycle times, increasing the throughput - the amount of linen you are able to process in a shift - and productivity of the laundry.

Now what about the latest high-end controls and accompanying reporting software? I think it's easy to look at these systems as "extras": don't discount them that fast. In many cases, their reporting capabilities not only help your laundry run more efficiently, but also help to avoid problems before they happen.

The key benefit to these new controls is the added management information they offer. Laundry managers and general managers of properties are always seeking ways to improve efficiency, processing and quality.

Reporting software now gives them the hard data to make better decisions that trim costs. Many controls allow complete command of the wash cycle down to individual steps within the cycle. This is where greater wash quality and improved efficiency is born.

Monitoring capabilities also help managers identify actions that impede progress, such as how often and when rapid advance has been used; if the proper wash cycles being employed; how much time elapsed between cycles; and more.

In addition, it assists in heading off efficiency or maintenance issues before they develop into a major problem and downtime. For example, in reviewing a report, the manager may see wash cycles are using significantly more water than normal, which could mean a drain is stuck. Without reports the problem may not be discovered for weeks, leading to hundreds of litres of water being wasted.

These are just a few examples of how higher-featured controls and their reporting capabilities can assist with management of the laundry. It is up to managers to tap into all facets of the microprocessor control. That means adopting the open attitude that there are indeed savings and efficiencies to be discovered in even the most well-run laundries.

Let's face it, washing isn't all that complicated. Operating an on-premises laundry in the competitive hospitality market, where quality, efficiency and productivity are key ingredients to success, is much more involved. That's why it's imperative to consider equipment features and how they can help you deliver in all areas.

Along with the features mentioned above come the intangibles such as durability of equipment, warranty and ease of use. Managers also must consider the level of service and support provided by their equipment distributor.

The equipment features you have invested in to improve productivity, quality and efficiency will have little value if the machines are down for days. Therefore you must ensure your distributor is a responsive professional dedicated to making sure your laundry's equipment needs are being met before during and, most importantly, after the sale.

Ghassan Majdalani serves the Middle East, African and Central Asia as regional sales director of alliance laundry systems. Contact him at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

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