There are a number of different brands and types of washing machines on the market. This guide will help you make the right decision for your commercial premises.

What capacity should I buy?

Washing machines range from small 6kg units to massive 50kg units. Choosing the right size for your business is vital as you don’t want to over use the machine if it’s too small or buy a unit that’s too big

for what you need. But it is a good idea to purchase a drum size that you aren’t going to worry about getting all your clothing in. The top sellers are 8-9kg as this offers a good capacity without increasing the size of the unit by a large amount. If you need a larger capacity make sure you can fit the unit in the space you have available. Note that the max capacity of a washing machine normally only applies to the main cotton programmes. Other programmes may only be able to support smaller loads.

What plumbing setup do you have?

These units are available in Hot and Cold fill, or Cold fill only. It is very important you check your setup before purchasing as a hot and cold fill unit will not work with just cold water! We have clearly marked product with their requirements to make sure you are aware.

Generally, the cold fill units are bigger. They allow a larger capacity load to compensate for the increased wash times. They take longer because the units have an on board boiler which heats the water to the required temperature each cycle. This allows a more precise temperature control than if you were supplying the unit with your own hot water and generally have a hotter wash included in its programmes, some going to 90°C

What is WRAS Approval and does it affect my purchase?

WRAS approval is the designation for a unit that carries or receives water from the public mains water supply will not cause waste, misuse, undue consumption or contamination of the water supply and must be of an appropriate quality and standard.

Depending on the nature of your business or the type of site, this will affect your purchase. Anyone dealing with human or medicinal waste, such as care home or hospitals, will have to purchase a unit with WRAS approval. These units have backflow protection to prevent waste getting into the mains that could cause contamination. If you are unsure contact your local council to ask about the water regulations in your area and what applies to you.