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View Full Version : Old Machines vs. Efficiency

JSVLaundry
10-29-2007, 07:32 PM
Question about my equipment.

I have (18) front load, Gen 4 Wascomat washers, (4) Heubsch dryers, (4) wascomat TD3030 dryers & my Old Faithfull cast iron oil burning hot water boiler.

The wahsers & Heubsch dryers are over 20 years old. The hot water heater is at least 40 years old.

Everything is regularly maintained & is running good.

Should I be concerned w/ efficiency fo all of this equipment? Could t his be where my utility bills are so high?
pete f
10-29-2007, 08:10 PM
Like cars, newer means better efficiency, lighter metal and more gizmos. Depending on your financial situation, IE, already depreciated the equipment, replacing it gets much cheaper thru tax deductions, and then the added utility bill lower helps round out the investment, not to mention repair parts and time. The bonus is customers do like new machines so some added business is in order. Sometimes an update can help you change the equipment mix. The decision to do any of this is personal and financially different to every owner.
JSVLaundry
10-29-2007, 08:20 PM
How would a proper mix of machines be figured out if I were to go w/ new machines?

I have a long narrow store.

What about the hot water heater?
pete f
10-31-2007, 10:56 PM
How would a proper mix of machines be figured out if I were to go w/ new machines?

I have a long narrow store.

What about the hot water heater?

The best idea of what mix you need is the coins coming out of the machines you have now, if you have some that really get used alot, you probably need more. What does the guy down the street have? If your biggest washer is 25# and he has 60#,80# then you probably need bigger washers to stay competitive. What do your customers ask for? It is an art, not a science. As for a 40 yr old hot water heater, you are just buying time.
Monarch
11-01-2007, 11:10 AM
The hot water heater is one of those things that do not show out front. The customers do know nor do they care what heats the water as long as they have the hot water. BUT that said, new heaters are much more efficent, better insulated, and operate much more efficiently which mean lower operating expense. I would not overlook replacing the older one if your circumstances allow for it.

JMHO

Norman