Moving heavy commercial appliances, like dishwashers, can seem like a daunting task. Whether you’re relocating your restaurant, cafe, or other commercial kitchen, it’s essential to have the proper equipment, tools, and expertise to get the job done efficiently and safely. In particular, moving a commercial dishwasher requires careful planning due to the weight, size, and sensitive components of the equipment.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about moving commercial dishwashers, from preparation to execution, to help you complete the job without a hitch. Let’s break it down.
What Is a Commercial Dishwasher?
A commercial dishwasher is a high-capacity appliance used in restaurants, hotels, and catering kitchens to clean large volumes of dishes, glasses, pots, and pans. Unlike residential dishwashers, these machines are built for heavy-duty use, often working for hours at a time in high-pressure kitchen environments. Some common types of commercial dishwashers include:
- Under-counter dishwashers: Smaller units that fit beneath countertops.
- Door-type dishwashers: Larger units that are commonly used in medium-sized kitchens.
- Conveyor dishwashers: Designed for large operations, with a conveyor belt that continuously moves dishes through the washing cycle.
- Glass washers: Used to wash glasses quickly and efficiently.
All of these types require careful handling during a move, so it’s crucial to understand the steps involved to avoid damage or disruption to your business.
Why Properly Moving a Commercial Dishwasher Matters
Moving a commercial dishwasher is more than just a simple relocation. These appliances are complex systems with sensitive electrical and plumbing connections. Improper handling can lead to:
- Breakage: The dishwasher’s delicate components (such as its heating element or water pump) can break if not handled properly.
- Water damage: Leaking water from improper disconnection can damage flooring or walls.
- Increased repair costs: Unnecessary repairs can add unexpected costs and delay the setup of your new kitchen.
- Operational downtime: For restaurants, downtime equals loss of business, making a smooth move essential.
Ensuring your dishwasher is moved correctly not only protects the appliance but also minimizes business interruptions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Moving a Commercial Dishwasher
Step 1: Preparation and Planning
Before moving any appliance, it’s essential to take proper measurements and make a detailed plan:
- Measure the dishwasher: Note its dimensions and check whether it will fit through doors, hallways, and stairs.
- Check the new location: Ensure the new kitchen space has the right hookups for water and electricity, and enough space to accommodate the dishwasher.
- Gather tools: You’ll need tools like wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, tape, and heavy-duty straps for securing the appliance during transport.
Step 2: Disconnect the Dishwasher
The first step in moving a commercial dishwasher is disconnecting it from water, electricity, and any drain lines. This step must be done carefully to avoid causing water damage or electrical issues:
- Turn off the water supply: Use a wrench to disconnect the water supply line and drain hose.
- Unplug the dishwasher: Disconnect it from the electrical source (make sure the power is off before doing this).
- Disconnect any venting or gas lines: If your dishwasher is connected to a ventilation system or uses gas, these should be disconnected as well.
It’s a good idea to have a licensed professional handle the disconnections to avoid any safety hazards.
Step 3: Empty the Dishwasher
Before moving the unit, make sure it is completely empty. Remove any dishes or racks that could move around during the transport, as these could damage the unit or cause it to shift unevenly.
Step 4: Secure the Dishwasher
Once disconnected and emptied, you’ll need to secure the dishwasher for transport:
- Use moving straps: Secure the dishwasher to a dolly or hand truck with heavy-duty straps to prevent it from tipping over or shifting.
- Protect the dishwasher: Wrap the unit in moving blankets or protective padding to prevent scratches, dents, and damage to the exterior.
Step 5: Lift the Dishwasher
Moving a commercial dishwasher is no small task due to its weight, which can range anywhere from 100 to 300 pounds or more. Depending on the model, it may require more than one person to move the appliance.
- Use a dolly: A furniture dolly or appliance hand truck can help distribute the weight and make the move easier.
- Lift with care: Always lift using proper technique to avoid injury—bend your knees and keep your back straight. If the appliance is too heavy, it’s best to enlist the help of a professional moving company.
Step 6: Transport the Dishwasher
Once the appliance is secured and lifted, you’ll need to carefully move it to the new location:
- Keep it level: Ensure that the dishwasher is kept level during the move. Tilting it too far could damage internal components or cause leaking.
- Avoid sudden impacts: Be cautious of any bumps or sudden jolts during transport that might affect the integrity of the appliance.
- Use appropriate transportation: Make sure you use a moving truck or vehicle that is large enough and equipped to handle the dishwasher’s size and weight.
Step 7: Reinstall the Dishwasher
Once the dishwasher has been moved to its new location, it’s time to reinstall it:
- Reconnect the water supply: Use the proper tools to reconnect the water supply lines and drain hose.
- Reconnect the power: Ensure that the dishwasher is safely connected to an electrical outlet with the right voltage.
- Test the unit: Run a test cycle to make sure everything is functioning properly and that there are no leaks.
Step 8: Clean and Maintain
Finally, after the dishwasher is installed, clean the machine thoroughly to ensure it is ready for use. Check for any water leaks, ensure that the dishwasher drains properly, and that all components are securely in place.
moving supplies for transporting restaurant items
When to Call Professional Movers
While moving a commercial dishwasher can certainly be done independently, it’s always a good idea to call in professional movers if:
- The dishwasher is particularly large or heavy.
- You’re unsure about disconnecting the water or electrical lines.
- The kitchen space is difficult to access, such as through narrow doors or stairs.
- You don’t have the necessary tools and equipment for a safe move.
Hiring a professional moving company that specializes in restaurant equipment ensures that your commercial dishwasher will be moved safely and efficiently. It also saves you the risk of damaging expensive equipment and helps minimize downtime for your business.
Cost Considerations for Moving a Commercial Dishwasher
The cost of moving a commercial dishwasher will vary depending on the complexity of the move, the location, and the service provider. Here are some factors that could affect the cost:
- Distance: The farther the move, the higher the cost will generally be.
- Size of the Dishwasher: Larger, heavier dishwashers will cost more to move due to the additional labor and equipment needed.
- Labor Costs: Depending on the complexity of the move, the labor cost could range from $100 to $300 per hour.
- Additional Services: If you require disconnecting plumbing or electrical services, these may come at an additional cost.
On average, moving a commercial dishwasher in New York City could cost anywhere from $300 to $800 for a local move, while long-distance moves may be higher.
Conclusion: Moving Your Commercial Dishwasher Safely
Moving a commercial dishwasher requires careful planning, proper tools, and sometimes, the help of professionals. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your dishwasher is safely relocated to your new kitchen without causing any damage to the equipment or the surrounding environment.
When in doubt, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of specialized restaurant equipment movers. Their expertise and experience will ensure that the process is as smooth as possible, saving you time and potential repair costs.
