How to Choose the Right Glasswasher for Your Business 

Choosing the right commercial glasswasher is essential for businesses that serve drinks throughout the day. From busy pubs and bars to restaurants, cafés and hotels, having clean glasses ready when you need them helps keep service running smoothly.

With different basket sizes, washing capacities and features available, it's important to choose a machine that suits your business, available space and daily requirements.

 1. What Is a Commercial Glasswasher? 

A commercial glasswasher is a specialist washing machine designed to clean drinking glasses quickly and efficiently. Unlike domestic dishwashers, commercial glasswashers are built for frequent use and shorter washing cycles, helping businesses keep up with demand during busy service periods.

They are commonly used in:

  • Pubs and bars
  • Restaurants
  • Cafés and coffee shops
  • Hotels and hospitality venues
  • Nightclubs
  • Sports and social clubs
  • Catering and event venues

Most commercial glasswashers are compact, front-loading machines designed to fit beneath a suitable counter or bar worktop.

2. Glasswasher or Commercial Dishwasher: Which Do You Need? 

Although both machines clean commercial washing equipment, they are designed for different applications.

Commercial glasswashers

Glasswashers are specifically designed for drinking glasses and glassware. Their washing programmes are suited to glassware, helping remove drink residue, lipstick marks and other everyday soiling.

They are particularly useful for businesses that need a regular supply of clean glasses throughout service.

Commercial dishwashers

Commercial dishwashers are generally designed for plates, crockery, cutlery, trays and other kitchen items. They are a better choice for restaurants and catering businesses with larger food-service washing requirements.

What is the difference?

Glasswasher vs Commercial Dishwasher

Feature Glasswasher Commercial Dishwasher
Main purpose Drinking glasses Plates, crockery and utensils
Typical location Behind the bar or under a counter Kitchen or wash-up area
Basket size Often 400 × 400 mm or 500 × 500 mm Varies by machine
Best suited to Pubs, bars and cafés Restaurants and catering kitchens

If your business mainly needs to wash drinking glasses, a dedicated glasswasher is generally the more suitable choice. If you regularly wash plates, trays and kitchen utensils, consider a commercial dishwasher instead.

 3. Choose the Right Basket Size 

Basket size is one of the most important things to consider when buying a commercial glasswasher.

The basket determines how many glasses you can load in each washing cycle and what size of glassware the machine can accommodate.

Common basket sizes include:

  • 400 × 400 mm: A compact option for smaller bars, cafés and businesses with limited space.
  • 500 × 500 mm: A larger basket that provides more loading space for businesses with higher washing requirements.

The best choice depends on the number and size of glasses you use, as well as how frequently you need to wash them.

For example, the Kastel FK40E features a 400 × 400 mm basket, while the Kastel FK50 offers a larger 500 × 500 mm basket.

Remember that basket dimensions alone do not determine how many glasses will fit. The shape and size of your glassware, along with the basket layout, will also make a difference.

 4. Consider Washing Capacity and Cycle Times 

A glasswasher needs to keep up with your business during its busiest periods.

When comparing models, look at both the washing cycle times and the number of baskets the machine can process per hour.

Washing cycle times

Commercial glasswashers are designed to complete washing cycles much faster than domestic dishwashers.

Depending on the model and programme selected, a cycle may take just a few minutes.

For example, the Kastel FK40E and FK50 offer the following listed cycles:

  • 90 seconds
  • 120 seconds
  • 180 seconds
  • 9 minutes

Always check the manufacturer's specifications, as cycle times and available programmes vary between machines.

Racks per hour

Manufacturers may also provide an estimated number of racks or baskets that a machine can wash per hour.

This is useful when comparing models, but remember that actual output depends on the selected programme, loading, rinsing and handling time.

Consider how many glasses your business uses during its busiest service period rather than relying on average daily usage alone.

 5. Check the Useful Washing Height 

Basket size is important, but you should also check the machine's useful washing height.

This determines how much clearance is available inside the washing chamber for your glassware.

Before choosing a glasswasher, consider:

  • The height of your tallest glasses.
  • Whether you use large beer glasses or tankards.
  • Whether you need to wash wine glasses or other delicate glassware.
  • Whether the machine can accommodate the types of glasses used by your business.

For reference, the Kastel FK40E offers a useful washing height of 300 mm, while the FK50 offers 340 mm.

Always compare this measurement with your tallest glass to make sure it will fit comfortably inside the machine.

 6. Features to Look for When Buying a Glasswasher 

Commercial glasswashers are available with different features designed to make daily operation easier.

Here are some worth considering.

  • Automatic detergent and rinse aid dispensers 

    Some machines include integrated detergent and rinse aid dispensers.

    These automatically dose the required products during the washing process, helping maintain consistent washing results and reducing the need for manual dosing.

  • Integrated drain pump 

    A drain pump helps remove used water from the machine.

    This can be particularly useful where the available waste outlet is higher than the machine's drainage connection.

    Check whether the model includes an integrated pump or requires a separate solution.

  • Electronic controls 

    Electronic controls and multifunction displays make it easier to select washing programmes and operate the machine.

    Some models also provide additional programme and operating information through their display.

  • Stainless steel construction 

    Commercial glasswashers are designed for regular use in busy hospitality environments. Stainless steel construction provides a durable finish suited to commercial settings.

  • Double-skinned construction 

    Some models feature double-skinned panels, which can help reduce heat loss and operating noise.

Check the individual product specifications to see which features are included.

 7. Water Softeners and Water Quality 

Water quality can have a significant effect on glasswashing results and the long-term performance of your equipment.

Hard water contains minerals that can contribute to limescale build-up inside the machine. This may affect heating elements, washing performance and the appearance of your glassware.

A suitable water softener can help reduce the minerals responsible for limescale.

When choosing a glasswasher, consider:

  • The hardness of your local water supply.
  • Whether the machine has a built-in water softener.
  • Whether an external water softener is required.
  • The manufacturer's water quality and pressure requirements.

In areas with hard water, a suitable water treatment system is particularly worth considering.

A water softener does not replace regular cleaning and maintenance, but it can help protect your equipment and support consistent washing results.

 8. Check the Installation Requirements 

Before purchasing a commercial glasswasher, make sure you have the correct space and connections available. 

Available space

Measure the intended installation area carefully, including:

  • Width, depth and height.
  • Available space beneath your counter.
  • Clearance needed to open the front-loading door.
  • Access for loading and unloading baskets.
  • Space for ventilation and maintenance.

Remember that the door opens downwards and outwards, so make sure there is enough room in front of the machine.

Water supply

Most commercial glasswashers require a suitable mains water connection.

Check the manufacturer's requirements for water pressure, temperature and connection size.

Drainage

Confirm whether the machine requires a gravity drain or an integrated drain pump.

The correct drainage arrangement will depend on the position of your waste outlet and the machine's specifications.

Electrical supply

Electrical requirements vary between models, so check the product specifications before ordering.

For example:

Make sure your premises have a suitable electrical supply before choosing your machine. If you're unsure, speak to a qualified electrician.

 9. Cleaning and Routine Maintenance 

Regular cleaning and maintenance are important for keeping your commercial glasswasher operating properly.

Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions and recommended maintenance schedule.

Good practices include:

  • Clean the machine regularly, including the washing chamber and accessible surfaces.
  • Remove and clean filters as instructed.
  • Check and clean the washing and rinsing arms.
  • Keep detergent and rinse aid supplies topped up.
  • Monitor water quality and limescale build-up.
  • Clean the machine at the end of service according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Arrange professional servicing when required.

Using suitable commercial glasswashing detergent and rinse aid is also important. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the machine and cleaning products.

10. Choosing the Right Glasswasher for Your Business 

The right machine depends on how many glasses you use, your available space and your busiest service periods.

  •  For small pubs and bars 

    A compact glasswasher with a 400 × 400 mm basket may be a suitable starting point where space and washing requirements are limited.

  •  For busy pubs and restaurants 

    Consider a larger basket and higher washing capacity to help keep up with demand during peak service periods.

  •  For cafés and coffee shops 

    Look for a compact machine that fits beneath your counter while accommodating the cups and glasses you use.

  •  For hotels and hospitality venues 

    Consider your overall glassware requirements, including restaurant service, bars and events. A larger-capacity machine may be more suitable depending on demand.

  •  For nightclubs and social clubs 

    Fast turnaround times and sufficient basket capacity can be particularly important when large numbers of glasses are used during busy periods.

Before deciding, compare basket size, washing height, cycle times, electrical requirements and available features.

 Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between a glasswasher and a dishwasher?

A glasswasher is designed specifically for drinking glasses and glassware, while a commercial dishwasher is generally used for plates, crockery, cutlery and other kitchen items.

What size glasswasher do I need?

This depends on how many glasses your business uses, the size of your glassware and how frequently you need to wash them. Compare basket sizes, washing height and racks per hour when choosing a machine.

How long does a commercial glasswasher take?

Washing times vary depending on the model and programme selected. Some commercial glasswashers offer cycles of around 90 to 180 seconds, although longer programmes may also be available.

Can a glasswasher wash plates?

Some glasswashers can accommodate small plates, cups and other items, depending on their basket size and useful washing height. However, if your business regularly washes plates, trays and kitchen utensils, a commercial dishwasher is generally more suitable.

Do I need a water softener for my glasswasher?

If your premises have hard water, a water softener is worth considering. It helps reduce limescale build-up, which can affect washing results and machine performance. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for the model you choose.

Does a commercial glasswasher need a drain pump?

Not necessarily. Whether you need a drain pump depends on the position of your waste outlet and the machine's drainage arrangement. Some models have an integrated pump, while others may rely on gravity drainage.

What electrical supply does a commercial glasswasher need?

This varies between models. Some machines operate on a standard 230V supply, while larger models may require 400V three-phase electricity. Always check the manufacturer's specifications before ordering.

How often should a commercial glasswasher be cleaned?

Follow the manufacturer's recommended cleaning schedule. Regular cleaning of the washing chamber, filters and other accessible components helps maintain hygiene and performance.

 Find the Right Commercial Glasswasher with DS Refrigeration 

At DS Refrigeration, we supply commercial washing equipment and bar equipment designed for busy hospitality and catering environments.

Whether you need a compact glasswasher for a small bar or a larger-capacity machine for a busy restaurant or hotel, we can help you compare the available options.

Our range includes commercial glasswashers and dishwashers from Kastel, with different basket sizes, washing capacities and features to suit a variety of requirements.

Browse our commercial glasswashers online or contact our team for help choosing the right machine for your business.

Call DS Refrigeration on 028 3751 1425 or email sales@ds-refrigeration.co.uk.