8 Things to Consider When Choosing Commercial Washers and Dryers
When you have a property offering laundry services, it’s critical not only that you purchase washers and dryers that can stand up to heavy-duty use, but that you choose the right ones for your specific property. Making the right choices can be the difference between happy tenants (and maintenance personnel), and unhappy ones who might decide to take their laundry, and their money, elsewhere.
Not sure what’s the best choice for your building? Don’t worry! This guide will help you make all the right decisions when it comes to commercial laundry facilities.
A Big Decision to Make
You have a lot of tasks on your plate, so you’re probably looking for commercial washers and dryers that are easiest for you to install and maintain without a lot of work on your part. And, most importantly, that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. There are a number of things to consider when you’re making this decision.
- Will the laundry facilities fit within my budget?
Whether you’re outfitting a rental property, restaurant, dormitory, industrial building, or anything else, you have a budget in mind that will allow you to profit from the laundry facilities. You don’t want to overpay for the right solution. Working with a specialized vendor that takes pride in developing the right answer, given the amount of money you have to spend, benefits you now and in the future.
- Will I get more value buying from a big-box store or a vendor that specializes in the commercial laundry business?
You could probably find commercial laundry machines at a store that sells all kinds of utility equipment. But, it’s unlikely that their salespeople specialize in laundry and are able to understand exactly what you need given the specs you lay out for them. Buying from a business that specializes in laundry, like Commercial Laundries, gives you access to our experts in washers and dryers who’ve helped other customers just like you find the best answer for their needs.
- Should I save money with off-brand equipment?
When it comes to commercial laundry, the equipment is usually in near-constant, hard use. While off-brand machines may be cheaper upfront, you’ll probably pay a lot more in the future when you have to constantly repair or replace broken-down equipment. Going with well-known brands that have stood the test of time and hard use will usually result in fewer repairs and replacements, so the lifetime cost of the machines is lower.
- Is it better to maintain the washers and dryers myself, or should I purchase a maintenance plan?
Because the equipment will be subject to hard use, you will need to perform maintenance on your machines on a fairly regular basis, don’t think you’ll be able to get away with just installing the equipment and letting it run forever! Unless your maintenance staff has a lot of experience with commercial laundry, you’re probably better off with a maintenance plan that allows for expert repairs and maintenance.
- Are there environmental issues I should think about, especially in Florida and the Ft. Myers area?
Your property is located in a unique environment and landscape, and if you want to help preserve it, you do have some options when it comes to commercial washers and dryers. You might consider energy-saving, water-reducing equipment, using recycled materials, and other environmentally conscious choices. Choose a vendor that partners with its suppliers to help reduce waste, and inefficiency, and reduce your utility costs at the same time.
- How can I fit the equipment into the space I’ve set aside?
You’re an expert in your property’s spaces, but an expert in laundry facilities can help you maximize the space you have available. You might choose to stack washers and/or dryers, for example, or you might not need them in the space you’re providing.
- Can I find a sale or lease contract that’s customized for my property’s specific needs?
Depending on the vendor that you choose for your laundry equipment, you may be able to get a customized contract that works with your budget, space, and requirements. However, not all sellers of washers and dryers will be able to provide a personalized solution, and you could end up with a cookie-cutter contract that doesn’t quite fit your needs. Call Commercial Laundries today at 305-592-7990 for a free quote!
- Should I use card or coin-operated machines?
This is mostly up to your preference. Because so many Americans are used to paying for things with a credit or debit card, it’s often hard to collect the necessary quarters. You might need to install a change machine if you decide to use coin-ops. or you could use a card system, which means you’ll need to provide a way for people to buy and reload their cards.
Leasing vs. Buying Commercial Washers and Dryers
Renting machines is often a cost-effective way to provide laundry access, at least to get started. It might be easier for your business to pay a smaller amount every month than to come up with a larger payment upfront. You’ll normally have more paperwork, and you may need to provide credit scores and get a guarantor in order to finance your machines when you lease.
If you know that you’ll be using the equipment for years to come, you might prefer to buy your washers and dryers instead. It’s a heavier upfront commitment, but if you have the funds you won’t have to worry about banking information and the additional administrative work that comes with a lease. Buying can often be less expensive over the life of the machine.
Whether you lease or buy, you might find more value in used equipment than in buying new. Our experts at Commercial Laundries can help walk you through the pros and cons of buying versus renting, and whether you’re better off with brand-new equipment or with pre-owned machines.
3 Top Brands of Commercial Washers and Dryers
As noted above, using high-quality laundry equipment can save you money in the long run. Here are the top brands in commercial machines.
- Maytag: These hard-working machines offer flexible programming so they work the way you want them to. Their components are all metal and the washtubs are stainless steel to help them last longer even under heavy use.
- Speed Queen: Durable and long-lived, these commercial washers and dryers are designed to be easy for people to use. They’re known for efficient water extraction which helps cut down on your utility costs.
- Whirlpool: This workhorse equipment features advanced engineering and their front-loaders outpace government standards by 20%, making them more efficient and cost-effective.
Commercial Laundries Inc. Has the Best Commercial Washers and Dryers in Fort Myers
If you’re looking for an expert in laundry facilities that can work within your constraints and help you save money and time, Commercial Laundries is the business for you. Give us your requirements, budget, and space available, and we’ll create a solution customized to your requirements that fits your needs.
We provide new and used equipment for lease or sale, whether you prefer coin or card-operated, we’ve got you covered. Don’t wait any longer for a laundry solution! Just give us a call at 239-208-5216 and discover your free estimate today.