Commercial laundry machines are essential for residential buildings and multifamily housing. They give residents a quick and efficient way to wash their clothes. Providing high-quality laundry machines gives your residents the functionality they deserve.
However, commercial laundry equipment faces a bigger challenge than household machines. Many residents use the equipment, so washers and dryers sustain nearly constant use. Even the most heavy-duty machine would deteriorate after years of endless loads. To maintain high-quality services for your tenants, you should upgrade your machinery regularly.
Maybe you’re wondering when it’s time to replace your washing machine or if it’s worth repairing a 15-year-old or even older one. Here are four signs you might need to upgrade your washer and dryer soon.
Understanding the typical washing machine lifespan is essential in determining the correct time to upgrade your assets. The average commercial laundry machine lasts between 10 to 14 years. With this duration in mind, you can budget for upgrades in advance to transition effectively with minimal downtime.
The lifespan of commercial laundry machines depends on usage, materials, construction, brand, maintenance practices and other factors. Generally, the average lifespan of a washing machine is 15 years for front-loading models, but top-loading washers might only last five. Some equipment will last far longer, while others might not make it to 10 years. This range is meant to act as an estimate for how long commercial laundry machines last.
To better gauge how long your washers and dryers will last, explore the factors influencing their lifespan below.
In addition to washing machine lifespan, you must evaluate other signs to determine if it’s time for an upgrade. These signs include:
Utility costs are another way to gauge whether you need to upgrade your equipment. New machines are more efficient and use less energy when washing and drying clothes. If old equipment is driving up your overall utility bill, you might consider upgrading or replacing it. Upgrading your machine might save your building thousands in water and electricity costs. Plus, you’ll reduce energy use, creating a more sustainable operating environment.
Also, take measures to reduce your utility bill. Clogged filters and blocked exhaust vents might cause your equipment to expend more energy. Check filters and clean lint traps regularly to prevent further equipment degradation.
An increased utility bill indicates you might need new commercial laundry supplies and equipment.
If you have to label a few machines as “Out of Order” constantly, they might need upgrades soon. Older equipment is much more likely to break down or need repairs. Even after a substantial fix, an older machine might need to be completely replaced in weeks. When laundry machines perform poorly, it frustrates both you and your residents.
Constant malfunctions are big signs those machines might need replacements or fixes. Once you upgrade them, your residents will see more efficient laundry cycles and stay satisfied.
In addition to service requests, here are other signs of wear and tear of laundry systems:
If your laundry equipment displays wear and tear or constant downtime, you should consider replacing it.
If you have recently increased the number of residents or customers, you might consider upgrading your commercial laundry equipment. An influx of users stresses the system and might cause older machines to degrade. You run the risk of multiple older machines failing at once, which means you wouldn’t adequately meet the demands of a broader customer base.
As your operation expands, you want to ensure your equipment is up to the task.
While any old washer and dryer can meet basic laundry needs, it’s best to consider modern equipment in an age where people want increased convenience and efficiency. Newer washing machine technology is changing how users interact with and control these appliances, helping to facilitate:
If users complain that machines aren’t cleaning clothes effectively, it might be time for an upgrade. This issue is typically a result of motor or drum bearing failure, making it difficult for the machine to spin and wash clothes effectively. While you could replace these components in your old machine, the cost of doing so may exceed the price of a new machine.
Over time, bearings, drive belts and motor brushes wear out, leading to longer wash cycles. While motor brushes are easy fixes, replacing bearings is costly and can cause further issues, so upgrading the machine is likely the best option.
If users demand better efficiency and more features, consider an upgrade. Investing in modern equipment can boost user satisfaction and loyalty, allowing you to maintain a consistent income stream.
If you want to improve the aesthetics of the laundry room to attract more users, upgrading the machines is best. Older equipment affects the laundry room’s overall appearance, while new appliances promote a positive impression and help elevate the space.
As a commercial laundry provider, your residents and customers are your top priority. You understand the importance of meeting your customers’ needs and work hard to provide them with the best services. Upgrading your washers and dryers is a great way to ensure you fit these obligations.
With upgraded machines, customers’ wait times decrease, satisfaction rises and energy efficiency improves. Happier customers are more likely to spread the word about your services, helping your business will grow. Not to mention, you save thousands in repair costs when working with new machines.
Overall, recognizing when to upgrade laundry equipment improves your and your customers’ experience.
At Caldwell & Gregory, we understand the importance of commercial laundry equipment maintenance. Our dedicated customer service agents, available 24/7, work with you directly to find the best solution for your laundry machines. We offer expert preventive maintenance and repair services, allowing you to run your laundry room with peace of mind.
Our technological upgrades help your machinery run more smoothly. We know downtime equals lost revenue, and our technology ensures quicker payment and monitoring options for your customers.
Contact a customer service agent today for help on deciding how often you should replace your washers and dryers. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find the best solution for your services!