Dishwashing Trailers: The Complete Mobile Dishwashing Solution

An Introduction to Dishwashing Trailers

Dishwashing trailers, also sometimes called mobile dishwashing units, are self-contained trailers outfitted with commercial-grade dishwashing equipment. They provide a convenient, portable dishwashing solution for off-site catering, mobile food trucks, food festivals, and other situations where on-site dishwashing is needed but plumbing connections are not available.

Benefits of Using a Dishwashing Trailer

Dishwashing trailers offer several key benefits:

• Portability - They can easily be hitched to a truck and towed wherever dishwashing services are needed.
• Self-contained functionality - Dishwashing trailers come equipped with their own water tanks, generators or electric hookups, and waste water storage.
• Commercial-grade washing - They provide high-volume dishwashing capabilities equivalent to restaurant-based dishwashing machines.
• On-demand operation - There's no need to rely on site-based dishwashing facilities or to transport dirty dishes elsewhere for cleaning.
• Labor saving convenience - By handling dishwashing tasks on-site, a dishwashing trailer can save substantial time and labor.

Types of Dishwashing Systems Used

There are two main types of dishwashing systems commonly used in dishwashing trailers:

• Conveyor machine: The machine features a continuous conveyor belt which transports racks of dirty dishes into the machine. Automatic wash, rinse, and sanitation cycles occur as the racks move through the machine, with clean racks emerging at the output end.
• Undercounter or door-type machine: This is a more compact, batch-style model where racks of dirty dishes are loaded into the unit for washing. It features automated wash and rinse cycles after which clean racks can be removed.

Both types offer quick, high-volume dishwashing capabilities in a self-contained package perfect for a mobile dishwashing trailer application.

Specialized Design Features

In additional to standard dishwashing equipment, dishwashing trailers incorporate other specialized design elements such as:

• Water heating systems - Typically propane-fueled on-demand tankless water heaters to provide continual hot wash water.
• Water tanks - Onboard fresh water tanks holding 50-100+ gallons to supply the dishwashing needs.
• Wastewater tanks - Holding tanks for capturing wastewater from dishwashing, usually 100+ gallon capacity.
• generators - diesel or propane generators sized adequately to run pumps, motors, heating, and dishwashing equipment.
• Ventilation systems - Exhaust fans for removing heat and humidity.
• Lighting & electric panels - As needed for safe operation and equipment hookups.
• Access doors, stairs, and racks - To facilitate loading/unloading and equipment access.
• Safety equipment - fire suppression equipment, eye wash stations, first aid kits, and other items to ensure safe and compliant operation.

Using Dishwashing Trailers for Mobile Catering & Events

Mobile catering and special events like food festivals, concerts, and weddings are ideal applications for dishwashing trailers. Here are some of the key benefits in these use cases:

Streamlined On-Site Dishwashing

Dishwashing trailers lets caterers and mobile vendors quickly wash service items near food preparation and servicing areas. There's no need to carry dirty items elsewhere or set aside space for dishwashing.

Flexibility & Scalability

Operators can take dishwashing capabilities anywhere needed and scale capacity based on the scope of an event. Trailers offer more flexibility than fixed dishwashing rooms.

Water & Power Self Sufficiency

With onboard tanks and generator power, dishwashing trailers don't rely on external water/power sources. They can be fully independent for off-grid catering events.

High Volume Washing

Commercial conveyor and undercounter dishwashers can clean hundreds of plates, glasses, and utensils per hour - easily keeping pace with busy catering demands.

Regulatory Compliance

Proper washing, rinse temperature & detergent strength documentation keeps inspection agencies satisfied. Dishwashing trailers have measurement tools and data logging capabilities.

Purchasing Your Own Dishwashing Trailer

If you're considering buying a dishwashing trailer, here are key factors to weigh:

Sizing Needs

First determine required tank capacities, dish rack space, production volumes, and equipment sizes based on projected catering work. Accurately sizing units prevents underpowered or overkill investments.

Customization Options

While pre-made models are available, vendors can also fully customize trailers to your space, capacity, feature, and budget needs from the frame up.

Brands & Reviews

Research manufacturers like Victory, ADJ, and HUB to compare options. Check third-party reviews and talk to other caterers about any brands you're considering. Build quality and reliability vary.

Cost Considerations

Purchase prices start around $75,000 ranging up to $150,000+ for large custom units. Calculate costs against operational expenses you'll save over in-house dishwashing.

Alternatives

If buying isn't viable, many rental and leasing options exist too. This lets you test benefits before fully investing.

With their mobility, power, and robust washing functionality, dishwashing trailers are invaluable assets for mobile and off-site caterers. Carefully identifying your capacity needs and purchasing considerations allows investing in one customized to your unique requirements.

FAQs

What sizes of dishwashing trailers are available?

Dishwashing trailers typically range from 16 feet to 28 feet in length. The larger units can accommodate bigger water tanks, wastewater tanks, dish racks, and industrial conveyor dishwashers. Smaller trailers have more limited tank capacity and rely on undercounter style dishwashers.

Can a dishwashing trailer operate off-grid?

Yes. Dishwashing trailers are completely self-contained units with onboard diesel generators, propane tanks, and water tanks. As long as you have fuel to run the generator and propane for heating water, they can operate anywhere without connections to power grids, water lines or sewer systems.

What kind of maintenance is required?

You'll need to periodically service the generator, refresh water purification filters, drain and flush wastewater tanks, service appliances, check propane lines, and test safety systems. Daily cleaning of the interior and dishwashing equipment is also essential.

Is training required to operate dishwashing trailers?

While designed to be user-friendly, commercial dishwashing equipment requires training to use safely and properly. From chemical handling to machine operation and troubleshooting, it's important your staff is fully trained before independent operation.