Commercial laundry equipment is essential for residential buildings and multifamily housing. The machines give residents a quick and efficient way to wash their clothes. By providing high-quality laundry machines, you give 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 how to know when it’s time to replace your washing machine, or if it’s worth repairing a 15-year-old washing machine or something even older. Here are four signs you might need to upgrade your laundry equipment soon.
One of the first things you should consider when thinking about upgrading your equipment is the age of your machinery. The average commercial laundry machine lasts between 10 to 14 years. So, as you approach that timeline or if your machine is in the midst of that range, you might start thinking about an upgrade.
Remember that not all machines will fall under that timespan. For example, the average life of a front-loading washing machine is usually 15 years, but top-loading washers might only last five. Some equipment will last far longer, while others might not make it to 10 years.
Here are some factors that influence laundry machine lifespan:
If any of your equipment meets those conditions, you might need a replacement sooner than 10 to 14 years. Overall, though, that range is a strong estimate of how long commercial laundry machines last.
Utility costs are another way to gauge whether you need an upgrade for 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 either upgrading or replacing them. Your building might save thousands in water and electricity costs by upgrading your machine. Plus, you’ll reduce energy use, creating a more sustainable operating environment.
Also, make sure to take your own 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.
Overall, an increased utility bill strongly indicates that you might need new commercial laundry supplies and equipment.
If you have to constantly label a few machines as “Out of Order,” 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 a matter of 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 equipment:
If any of your laundry equipment displays wear and tear or constant downtime, you should consider replacing it.
If you have a recent increase in residents or customers, you might consider upgrading your commercial laundry equipment. An influx of users puts stress on 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.
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 and satisfaction rises. 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 you 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 preventative maintenance services, allowing you to run your services with ease.
Our technological upgrades help your machinery run more smoothly than ever before. 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 a personalized consultation. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find the best solution for your services!