´MEIKO UK began selling its new M-iQ model rack and flight transport dishwashers in 2010, with claims of 30 per cent savings compared to the previous generation of machines. Now they have gone back to the users to see if the new machines delivered on the promises.
Frimley Park Hospital NHS Foundation Trust was the first site in the UK to install an M-iQ flight-type dishwasher early in 2011. Four years later, Kevan Wallace, Assistant Hotel Services Manager, Catering, gives his verdict on the performance, service and economy in use.
A running cost comparison prepared by Wallace for senior management demonstrated that the new M-iQ dishwasher would consume just over half the volume of the previous machine, 280.320 litres annually, compared to 448.950.
“Because the M-iQ works so efficiently, we were able to lower the dosage compared to the old machine. Our consumption has reduced by almost 50 per cent; from using four 20-litre drums per week to two drums. Rinse aid consumption has also considerably reduced.”
Wallace noticed an immediate reduction in power consumption when the new M-iQ flight-type dishwasher began operating. Frimley operates a cook-fresh plated meals system and all food is prepared and cooked using a mix of gas and electric powered equipment.
“The old dishwashing machine consumed so much power that we used to find the kitchen was starved of power at peak times. We were using all the power we had available."
"The new M-iQ operates so much more efficiently and it has reduced the demand for power so much that I was able to install a new oven rated at 42 amps!”
Wallace about more benefits: “Good washing results, which is exactly what you want. No ventilation canopy is required because the M-iQ helps keeps the moisture level in the room down; there is very little steam in the air. Visitors that come here to look at our system have commented on the fact there is no curtain on the front of the machine. I explain this is not needed because the machine draws the heat back inside to pre-heat incoming cold water. The control system helps us with recording temperatures and the self-diagnostic display tells us what is wrong with the machine, for example, if a door has not been closed properly.”
“There have been no major issues with the M-iQ machine. We have a five-star service contract with MEIKO, so our machines are well looked after. One other thing I would like to say is that MEIKO is a specialist; that is their business. Other companies diversify and handle many other products as well as dishwashing, but MEIKO specialises in dishwashing alone. Their engineers are also very knowledgeable.”, Wallace sums up.
