In a busy hospitality environment, efficiency is everything — especially when it comes to cleaning. A commercial pass-through dishwasher can revolutionise the workflow in your kitchen by streamlining the dishwashing process and maintaining the highest hygiene standards. Whether you’re running a restaurant, café, hotel, or catering facility, investing in a quality pass-through dishwasher from trusted brands like Hobart, Meiko, Eswood, Washtech, and Sammic can make a major difference in your operations.
What Is a Commercial Pass-Through Dishwasher?
A pass-through dishwasher (also known as a hood-type or hooded dishwasher) is designed for high-volume kitchens where speed, cleanliness, and ergonomics matter most. Unlike under-bench dishwashers, pass-through models allow trays of dishes to “pass through” from one side to another — creating an efficient workflow from dirty to clean.
These machines are freestanding and built from premium stainless steel, offering durability, reliability, and long-lasting performance in demanding environments. With top models capable of washing over 1,000 plates per hour, they’re ideal for restaurants, hotels, and large catering operations.
Popular choices in Australia include:
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Hobart – Renowned for innovative energy-saving and water-efficient systems.
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Meiko – Known for German-engineered precision and hygiene technology.
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Eswood – A reliable Australian-made solution perfect for local hospitality venues.
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Washtech – Robust and efficient, designed specifically for Australasian kitchens.
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Sammic – Offers high performance and user-friendly functionality with ergonomic design.
Key Benefits of Pass-Through Dishwashers
1. Speed and Efficiency
Pass-through dishwashers allow seamless operation — load, wash, and unload in a continuous cycle. Staff can maintain a smooth workflow without bending or pausing, saving time and effort.
2. Ergonomic Design
The raised working height eliminates the need for bending over, reducing fatigue and strain. This is particularly valuable in commercial kitchens where long hours are the norm.
3. Hygienic and Reliable
With high-temperature rinse cycles and precise water jets, these machines ensure dishes come out spotless and sanitised — perfect for maintaining food safety compliance.
4. Eco-Efficient Options
Modern brands like Hobart and Meiko integrate smart technology that optimises water, energy, and detergent consumption, reducing your operational costs and environmental footprint.
Considerations Before Buying
Before investing in a commercial pass-through dishwasher, make sure your site meets all installation and performance requirements. Key considerations include:
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Water supply & pressure
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Drainage and sewage setup
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Electrical requirements (single or three-phase)
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Hot vs cold water supply
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Water softener type and maintenance
Understanding these factors ensures smooth installation and optimal operation.
Size, Capacity & Configuration
When choosing your pass-through dishwasher, measure your available space carefully. You’ll need room for:
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Pre-rinse and loading tables
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The machine itself (including hood clearance)
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Unloading and drying zones
Pass-through systems can handle 18–20 plates per rack, completing each cycle in just 2–3 minutes. Models like the Hobart Ecomax H602 or Sammic PRO Series offer auto-start hoods and energy-saving rinse cycles, maximising efficiency while maintaining hygiene.
Power Requirements
Pass-through dishwashers generally require more power than under-bench models. Most are supplied in three-phase power for maximum performance, though some can operate on single-phase setups. Always ensure your power circuit can support the chosen model.
Pros and Cons of Pass-Through Dishwashers
✅ Pros
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Exceptional speed and water efficiency
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Hygienic high-temperature sanitisation
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Ergonomic operation and time savings
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Eco-friendly options available (low water & energy usage)
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Designed for heavy-duty, continuous operation
⚠️ Cons
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Requires dedicated kitchen space
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Higher upfront investment than smaller units
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Regular maintenance needed to ensure optimal performance
Setting Up Your Pass-Through System
A pass-through dishwasher performs best as part of a complete dishwashing station. To optimise efficiency, include:
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Pre-rinse sink and spray system for removing debris
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Loading tables for stacking dirty dishes
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Draining racks or drying tables for clean dishes
Brands like Hobart, Meiko, and Washtech offer integrated systems with matching accessories to create a seamless cleaning line.
Why Choose Hospitality Connect
At Hospitality Connect, we help Australian hospitality businesses find the right dishwashing solution for their needs. Our experts can recommend high-performance options from Hobart, Meiko, Eswood, Washtech, and Sammic, ensuring you get a dishwasher that delivers efficiency, durability, and outstanding results.
Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or fitting out a new venue, we’ll help you choose the perfect commercial pass-through dishwasher to keep your operations running smoothly — and your dishes spotless.
Clean Smarter with Hospitality Connect
Boost productivity, hygiene, and energy efficiency with a commercial pass-through dishwasher that’s built for your business. Explore our full range today and discover why Australia’s hospitality professionals trust Hospitality Connect for quality equipment and expert advice.
