The Real Cost of Owning a Commercial Dishwasher

For many hospitality businesses, a dishwasher is one of the most essential pieces of kitchen equipment. While it’s easy to focus on the upfront purchase price, the real cost of ownership includes installation, running costs, and long-term servicing. Understanding the full picture ensures your venue makes the right investment.

Purchase Price: Beyond the Sticker

Commercial dishwashers vary in cost depending on size and capacity:

• Undercounter models (cafés, bars): from $4,500–$7,000 AUD

• Pass-through / hood-type (restaurants, clubs): $7,000–$10,000 AUD

• Rack conveyors (large kitchens, aged care, hospitals): $12,000–$18,000 AUD

• Flight systems (very high volume operations): $20,000 AUD+

Australian-made brands like Norris are well-regarded for durability and efficiency, giving operators confidence that their investment will last., while European-made brands like Madison offer reliable performance and attractive price points.

Installation Costs

Dishwashers require plumbing, drainage, and electrical connections—best handled by a professional. Depending on your site setup, installation typically adds $300–$1200 AUD. When upgrading, many operators take the opportunity to review kitchen layout to maximise workflow.

Running Costs Add Up

Over the life of a dishwasher, the ongoing expenses are often greater than the upfront cost.

• Water & Energy: Efficient units may use as little as 3–7 litres per cycle, keeping monthly utilities around $120–$300 AUD.

• Chemicals: Detergents and rinse aids average $80–$200 AUD per month.

• Labour Savings: Compared with manual washing, even a mid-range hood-type machine can save hours of staff time every day—a critical benefit with rising labour costs.

Servicing & Longevity

Budget $300–$600 AUD annually for preventative servicing, with additional allowance for repairs. Machines like the Norris range are known for straightforward maintenance and long operational lifespans—often 10–15 years when properly cared for.

Leasing vs Buying

Leasing can reduce upfront costs, with weekly payments of $80–$250 AUD (often including servicing). However, for long-term venues, purchasing outright usually delivers better value. Brands such as Madison dishwashers are designed with efficiency in mind, giving buyers long-term peace of mind when choosing to own rather than lease.

First-Year Cost Snapshot

The Bottom Line

The true cost of owning a commercial dishwasher isn’t just the sticker price—it’s the daily savings in labour, time, and hygiene compliance. Choosing the right model ensures long-term value and fewer operational headaches. 

An easy way to maximise ROI is to choose a machine with a 2-year (or longer) warranty. Both Norris and Madison dishwashers are excellent choices for operators seeking reliability, efficiency, and long-term returns—especially when paired with Zexa Warewashing, which extends the warranty by an additional 2 years.