MIL-HDBK-1165
5.2.6.4
Replacements. The water-efficient washing machine has
not advanced as far as other water conserving devices. There are
not many manufacturers of household horizontal-axis washers
(front-loading or top-loading). The household front-loader is
slightly more expensive than the conventional top-loading,
vertical-axis model, but not significantly so, while the
household top-loading, horizontal-axis models cost about two to
three times more than the conventional machines. Older washers
can also be replaced with newer ones that have more options for
controlling water levels and temperature.
5.2.6.5
Problems and Pitfalls. As mentioned above, horizontal-
axis washers cost more than conventional machines, but can reduce
operational costs. Cost savings can be achieved not only in
water usage, but also in energy savings due to reduced water
heating costs. The horizontal-axis machines also use
significantly less detergent. A cost analysis should be
performed for your residential facilities to determine if
replacing conventional washing machines with horizontal-axis
machines will prove beneficial.
5.2.7
Dishwashers
5.2.7.1
Conventional and Water-Efficient. Dishwashers can be
classified as residential or commercial. The familiar rack type
dishwashers are used in residential households. Commercial type
dishwashers are used in cafeteria or restaurant facilities.
Commercial dishwashers or "warewashers" are available in a
variety of rack and conveyor designs. They are either high
temperature-rinse or low temperature-rinse machines, meaning they
rinse and sanitize the dishes with either 180 degrees Fahrenheit
(82.2 degrees Celsius) or 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees
Celsius) water, respectively. In conveyor dishwashers, the
dishes are placed in a tray on a conveyor and passed into the
warewasher after manual pre-rinsing. Warewashers use
approximately 1-1.5 gpm, (3.8-5.7 lpm) depending on design and
features. Conventional older rack washers use between 9 and 12
gpc (gallons per cycle) (34-45.5 lpc (liters per cycle)). Most
new residential dishwashers currently sold use between 5 and 9
gpc (19-34 lpc). They incorporate a variety of features that
allow them to conserve water, but which are primarily included to
conserve energy.
5.2.7.2
Operation and Maintenance Procedures. The following
are water saving procedures to implement with existing
dishwashers:
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