Industrial and commercial ironer prices: Complete price and buying guide

Buying an industrial ironer in Australia? This expert guide covers flatwork, chest and roller machines, pricing, operation, support and safety standards.

Key takeaways

• Price range: Industrial ironers in Australia range from $12,000 to over $75,000+, depending on size, capacity, and automation level.
• Machine types: Choose from flatwork ironers, chest ironers, and roller ironers, with gas, electric, or steam heating options.
• Operating efficiency: Modern ironers can process 120–3,000 pieces/hour, reducing labour costs by up to 40%.
• Maintenance matters: Scheduled preventive maintenance can increase machine lifespan by 5–8 years.
• Financing options: Leasing and equipment finance can start at 5.5–7.9% APR, ideal for reducing upfront costs.
• Warranty periods: Expect 1–3 years standard warranty, with extended warranties available from most top-tier manufacturers.
• Compliance essentials: Machines must meet AS/NZS 4146:2000 laundry standards and electrical safety certifications under RCM.
• Popular sectors: Aged care, hospitality, mining, hospitals, and laundromats with high linen throughput rely heavily on industrial ironers.
  

Introduction

If you're running a commercial laundry, hotel, aged care facility, or healthcare service in Australia, investing in the right industrial or commercial ironer is key to delivering crisp, sanitised linen at scale. These machines are built for high-capacity, long-life performance, saving time and labour in demanding laundry environments.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about industrial ironers in Australia, from pricing and machine types to maintenance, compliance, warranties, and frequently asked questions. Whether you're upgrading or purchasing for the first time, this guide will help you make an informed and cost-effective decision.

Types of industrial and commercial ironers

1. Flatwork ironers

Best for hotels, hospitals, and large laundries handling sheets, pillowcases, and tablecloths.

• Features:
• Large heated rollers (1–3m wide)
• High output (500–3,000 items/hour)
• Fold and stack functionality on premium models
  
• Price range: $35,000–$50,000+
• Best for: High-volume linen processing
  
  

2. Chest ironers

Known for their contact heat area and superior finish quality.

• Features:
• Heated chest with rotating roll
• Consistent pressure and heat
• High-gloss results, especially on high-thread-count items
  
• Price range: $25,000–$50,000+
• Best for: Hospitality, mining camps, and luxury accommodation
  
  

3. Roller ironers (dry ironers)

Smaller and more affordable, ideal for compact laundries.

• Features:
• Single roll with internal heating
• Lower speed, smaller items
• Manual feed
  
• Price range: $12,000–$30,000+
• Best for: Small commercial laundries, aged care, or boutique hotels

Heating types and their impact

• Electric: Easier installation, but higher running costs.
• Gas: Cost-efficient and fast heating; requires gas connection and ventilation.
• Steam: Used in central boiler systems; high performance but expensive to install.
  
  

According to Energy.gov.au, switching from electric to gas heating can reduce ironing-related energy consumption by up to 30% in commercial operations.

Ironer pricing in Australia

Industrial and commercial ironer prices in Australia vary significantly depending on the machine’s capacity, heating method, level of automation, and additional features. Below is a breakdown of typical price ranges by machine type to help guide your investment decision:

• Roller ironers (electric heated): Ideal for smaller operations with lower linen volumes. These machines handle up to 500 items per hour and typically cost between $12,000 and $25,000.
• Chest ironers (gas or steam heated): Suitable for medium-scale operations, offering a balance between throughput and finishing quality. They process approximately 500 to 1,200 items per hour, with prices ranging from $25,000 to $90,000.
• Flatwork ironers (gas or steam heated): Built for high-volume environments, capable of handling 1,000 to 3,000+ items per hour. These units fall within the $35,000 to $120,000+ range, depending on configuration and brand.
• Folding ironer systems (with built-in feeders and folders): Designed for maximum efficiency in high-throughput facilities, processing 1,200 to 3,500 items per hour. These fully automated systems range from $50,000 to $100,000+ when including folding modules.
  
  

Price will also vary depending on:

• Roll width: Wider rolls allow greater throughput and accommodate larger items.
• Ironing speed: Higher speeds mean faster processing but typically come at a higher cost.
• Control automation: Touchscreen interfaces, programmable settings, and smart diagnostics can increase the upfront investment.
• Integrated features: Machines with built-in feeders, folders, and stackers will command a premium.
• Brand and origin: European and US brands often carry higher price tags due to performance, compliance, and after-sales support.
  
  

Understanding these variables is essential to budgeting accurately and ensuring the machine aligns with your throughput and workflow needs.

Key operational considerations

• Space requirements: Industrial ironers can be 3–5 metres long, requiring careful floor planning.
• Power consumption: Machines can use 7–20 kWh, depending on capacity and heating method.
• Staff training: Ensure staff are trained on feeding speeds and safety protocols.
• Feeding options:
• Manual: Lower cost, higher labour.
• Automatic feeders: Improve productivity, reduce injury risk.

Maintenance and upkeep

Maintaining your ironer properly can prevent breakdowns, reduce downtime, and prolong its life.

Routine maintenance tasks:

• Daily:
• Clean lint traps and surfaces
• Check belt alignment
• Weekly:
• Inspect heating elements and belts
• Lubricate moving parts
• Monthly:
• Check steam/gas seals
• Test emergency stop buttons
  
  

Replacement parts:

• Ironing belts: $150–$500
• Motors and drives: $1,200–$3,000
• Control panels: $2,000–$5,000
• Thermostats & sensors: $250–$800
  
  

Establish a service agreement with your supplier to ensure scheduled preventive servicing every 6–12 months.

Financing industrial ironers in Australia

Financing can reduce the upfront cost burden and improve cash flow. Consider:

1. Equipment finance loans

• Terms: 1–5 years
• Interest rates: Starting from 5.5%–7.9% APR
• Asset ownership: You own the asset from the start
  
  

2. Chattel mortgage

• Asset used as security
• GST claimable upfront
• Popular for ABN-holders with regular turnover
  
  

3. Leasing

• Operating leases for off-balance-sheet treatment
• Upgrade flexibility
• Tax-deductible payments
  
  

Eligibility tip: Lenders typically prefer:

• ABN active 12+ months
• GST-registered business
• Clear credit history
• Equipment quote/invoice from a verified supplier
  

Warranties and support

Most machines come with:

• Standard warranty: 12–36 months parts and labour
• Extended options: Up to 5 years for critical components (heaters, motors)
• Local support: Choose suppliers with nationwide parts availability and trained technicians

Australian compliance and safety requirements

Key standards:

• AS/NZS 4146:2000: Laundry practice compliance standard for health and aged care
• AS/NZS 60335.2.44: Electrical safety for ironing appliances
• RCM marking: All machines must be compliant with the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM) for electrical products
• Gas fitting certifications: Required if gas-powered, ensure installation by a licensed gasfitter
  
  

Safety must-haves:

• Emergency stop button
• Finger guards and feeding safety sensors
• Temperature control cut-offs
• Clear operation manual in English

Site planning for industrial ironer delivery and installation

Purchasing an industrial or commercial ironer is not just about the machine itself, it’s also about ensuring your site is ready for safe delivery, correct installation, and efficient long-term operation. Overlooking site readiness can lead to delays, added costs, or even damage to equipment and flooring.

Here’s what to plan for before your ironer arrives on-site:

 Delivery considerations

• Weight and handling: Industrial ironers can weigh between 600 kg and 1.5 tonnes, depending on model and configuration. Confirm whether the supplier provides tail-lift delivery or forklift unloading, and ensure the delivery route can accommodate the equipment.
• Access pathways: Measure doorways, hallways, loading docks, and any corners or lifts the machine must pass through. A flatwork ironer may be up to 1.8 m wide and 3–4 m long, requiring wide access points.
• Floor protection: Install protective sheeting or load-rated pads if your floor tiles, vinyl, or polished concrete may crack under heavy weight. For older buildings, check the floor’s load-bearing capacity, especially for upper-storey laundries.
  
  

Installation essentials

• Utilities readiness:
  
• Electrical: Most machines require three-phase power (typically 415V), verify availability and load capacity with a licensed electrician.
• Gas (if applicable): Gas-heated models must be installed by a certified gasfitter, with proper ventilation and flame protection in place.
• Steam (if applicable): For steam-heated models, ensure the system is compatible with your central boiler or steam generator, including appropriate steam traps and condensate return.
  
• Service access: Leave at least 800–1,000 mm clearance at the back and sides of the machine for maintenance, ventilation, and emergency access. Poor airflow can reduce performance and increase fire risk.
• Commissioning: Choose a supplier who includes full commissioning, which should cover:
  
• Power-up and safety tests
• Temperature calibration
• Belt tensioning and alignment
• First-cycle performance check
• Operator briefing and handover
  
  

Site planning and layout

• Workflow design: Position the ironer so it aligns with your soiled-to-clean workflow, this reduces cross-contamination and staff movement inefficiencies.
• Feeding and folding space: Allow adequate space for staff to feed linens and fold output. Machines with automatic folders will require extra clearance for folding arms and stacking bins.
• Noise and ventilation: Ironers generate heat and noise, consider acoustic panels, heat extraction fans, or ducted air circulation to maintain WHS standards.
• Emergency access: Make sure emergency stops are visible and reachable. Compliance with Safe Work Australia guidelines on machine safety and egress is essential.
  

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. How do I choose between chest and flatwork ironers?

• Chest ironers offer a superior finish but lower throughput.
• Flatwork ironers are ideal for high-volume operations needing integrated folding and stacking.
  
  

2. What’s the life expectancy of an industrial ironer?

With proper maintenance, expect 10–15 years of service. Heavy-duty models used in 24/7 laundries may require refurbishment around the 8–10 year mark.

3. Are industrial ironers energy efficient?

Yes, modern models with inverter drives and auto temperature controls can save 15–30% energy compared to older models.

4. Do I need to connect my ironer to a central boiler?

Only if choosing a steam-heated model. For smaller operations, electric or gas-heated ironers are more practical.

5. How often should the belts be replaced?

Generally, every 1–2 years, depending on usage and cleaning practices.

6. Can I finance second-hand ironers?

Yes, many Australian lenders provide low-doc finance for second-hand commercial equipment, provided the machine is under 7 years old and from a reputable dealer.

Final tips before purchasing

• Assess your daily throughput: How many kilos of linen or pieces/hour?
• Check for future upgrades: Can the system grow with your business?
• Compare energy costs: Ask suppliers for kWh usage and compare between gas, electric, and steam.
• Inspect service access: Machines should be easily serviceable from front and rear.
• Ask for demonstrations or site visits if possible.
  

Conclusion

An industrial or commercial ironer is a strategic investment for any serious laundry operation in Australia. Whether you're running an aged care facility, high-turnover hotel, or healthcare laundry, the right machine can significantly reduce manual handling, lower long-term costs, and improve the quality of linen output.

By understanding pricing, machine types, energy use, compliance, and financing, you’re well-positioned to make a smart and informed purchase. Be sure to consult suppliers who provide local servicing, installation support, and real performance data to ensure you’re making the best choice for your business.