In the commercial laundry business, understanding the lifecycle of your equipment is paramount. Let’s take a deep dive into the subject, breaking down the average lifespan of used commercial laundry machines, the factors that can prolong this lifespan, and how you can find value even in used equipment.
The Basic Lifespan of a Laundry Machine
From our extensive experience in the industry, we can say that the typical lifespan of a commercial laundry machine is around 10 to 15 years. However, this can vary significantly based on the specific brand and model. For instance, our on-premise Unimac machines have proven their resilience by lasting between 20 to 30 years, with some even outliving this range.
Wide Range of Life Expectancy
As with any machine, there’s a wide range of life expectancy. Several factors play into this, including the machine’s initial build quality, its maintenance schedule, and the level of use it experiences daily.
Rejuvenating Used Machines
When we bring a used machine into our inventory, we don’t just dust it off and put it back on the market. We invest time and resources to essentially rebuild the machine. We install new bearings, drain valves, water valves, and belts. This process ensures the machine is reliable and can effectively serve its purpose for an extended period.
Reinforcing the Frame
One of the core aspects that give a machine its durability is the frame. Made of solid steel, the frame of a laundry machine can survive significant wear and tear, unless they’ve been compromised by chemical spills or corrosion. When restored properly, these frames can continue to serve for many more years.
The Used Machine Market
Acquiring used machines can be a little tricky. To understand why, let’s compare it to the car market. A car owner might trade in their vehicle every few years to get a newer model. But with laundry equipment, owners tend to use them until they fall apart, or the maintenance costs become unbearable. So the supply of used machines is rather limited.
Obsolete Parts and Challenges
One other challenge we face is the age of the machines we receive. Often, they are around 15 to 20 years old, and finding parts for these machines can be a monumental task as many of these parts are obsolete. Even if we manage to restore them, the cost of the overhaul may amount to the price of a new machine.
Hotel Laundry Vs. Laundromat Usage
Different scenarios call for varying levels of robustness in a machine. Take, for instance, a hotel laundry setup. Here, machines run from morning till night, non-stop. This high usage demands a more expensive, long-lasting brand.
In contrast, a laundromat machine may be used for three to five turns a day. While this is still considered heavy use, these machines don’t need to be as rugged. That’s why more compact machines, while less durable and cost-effective in the long run, can still serve their purpose in a laundromat environment.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, understanding the average lifespan of used commercial laundry machines is vital to making informed decisions when purchasing your equipment. Whether you’re considering a more durable, expensive model for a high-usage setting, or looking into a rebuilt used machine, it’s crucial to consider the projected lifespan alongside other costs and benefits.
Looking for more guidance? Don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is more than happy to help you navigate the complex world of commercial laundry equipment.
