If you’re planning to purchase new commercial laundry equipment for a coin-operated laundromat, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is what sort of washing machines you need. Front load vs. top load washing machine: that is the question! Although both are effective and popular, this is one of those debates that can spark massive arguments. If you’ve ever debated the following topics with a group, you know what I mean: hanging the toilet paper over vs. under, peanut butter first vs. jelly first, cat people vs. dog people. Although both sides have valid points in each of these debates, most people affiliate themselves strongly with one side or the other. So which are you: a front load washing machine enthusiast or a top load washing machine lover? For those who haven’t yet made up their mind, today we’re delving into the pros and cons of front load and top load washing machines for commercial use.
Front Load vs. Top Load Washing Machine
Front Load Machines
Front-loading machines use less water and run through spin cycles more quickly, which can result in big savings. Their energy-effiency is much appreciated in our increasingly environmentally-conscious world. Plus, many products bear the highly-coveted “Energy Star” label, which means they deliver a superior cleaning performance while also cutting energy and water use by 50% or more! Your utility bills will go down, but you’ll also be able to charge higher prices because the machines can handle more laundry at once and complete a cycle faster. Plus, since an agitator is unnecessary, they have a more powerful spin mechanism than top-loaders. Although they cost more upfront, they also save a lot of money in the long run. Finally, don’t forget that they can be stacked, so you’re able to make good use of your space, fitting more machines into the laundromat.
Top Load Machines
Top-loading machines require less squatting and it is easy to peer inside them. For this reason, many of your older customers and people who have trouble with their knees may prefer a top-loading machine. Top-loading machines with center-post agitators are less expensive than front-loaders, but some dismiss their performance level as subpar. The agitator can really beat the life out of clothes, causing them to break down more quickly. They also require more water to cover all of the clothes in the drum, and the machine must completely empty and refill for the rinse cycle. Although high-efficiency top-loading machines (which cost more than traditional top-loaders) are comparable to front-loaders in energy, cost, and cleaning performance, they don’t offer the space-saving benefits of front-loading machines because they can’t be stacked.
THE VERDICT
Whether you’re purchasing these washing machines for a coin-operated laundromat or an on-site laundry room, you will probably find that front-loading machines offer the best bang for your buck. After all, in addition to utility savings, you should also see an increase in cash flow since you’ll be able to charge higher prices for machines that have a higher capacity and faster extract speed. Your customers will appreciate the machines’ efficiency and high performance level, and you’ll appreciate their fantastic value.
If you’re on the hunt for high-quality commercial laundry equipment, be sure to check out Laundry Solutions Company, a full-service provider of premium vended, on-premises, and multi-housing commercial laundry equipment.
Since 1976, we have been providing exceptional sales support, laundry design services, commercial laundry equipment (and leasing options), and laundry equipment service and parts. Although headquartered in Springfield, MO, we also operate out of Tulsa, Kansas City, and St. Louis, and we’re proud to be the sole authorized distributor for Speed Queen equipment in the states of Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. To learn more about our products and services, please give us a call at 800-383-9274 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!