Wolf Laundry: Advice for planning public sector laundry facilities

With ongoing technological advancements and more choice than ever before, selecting the right commercial laundry equipment for public sector settings can be a dauting task. Choosing the right kit for hospitals, schools, and government offices, involves more than just picking the most affordable or the most advanced machines. It’s a complex process that requires careful planning, consideration of long-term costs, and understanding the specific needs of different facilities. Wolf Laundry’s Sales Director, Miles Tebay, takes a look at the importance of initial planning for new builds and the significance of maintenance contracts in ensuring the longevity and efficiency of laundry equipment.

“When planning for new builds, the initial step involves a thorough assessment of the laundry needs of the facility. This means considering the volume of laundry, the types of fabrics to be washed, and any specific hygiene requirements, especially in healthcare settings.

“Early planning allows architects and engineers to allocate sufficient space for laundry operations, ensuring there’s enough room for the machines, drying areas, and storage for clean laundry. Moreover, integrating energy-efficient designs and water-saving systems from the outset can significantly reduce long-term operating costs.

“Wolf Laundry works with many organisations from the planning stage as our team can provide valuable insights into the best machines and setups for the facility’s unique needs.

Budget considerations

“Budget considerations are critical in this process. Public sector organisations must navigate the delicate balance between upfront costs and long-term savings. Opting for cheaper equipment might save money initially but can lead to higher expenses in the long run due to increased maintenance, energy use, and potential downtime.

“Therefore, it’s essential to consider the total cost of ownership, which includes purchase price, installation, maintenance, and operating costs. By focusing on energy-efficient and durable machines, facilities can lower their overall expenses over time.

“Durability and reliability are non-negotiable when it comes to commercial laundry equipment in the public sector. These machines are expected to handle high volumes of laundry and operate almost continuously.

“Assessing the durability of equipment often involves looking at manufacturer warranties, seeking recommendations from other facilities, and considering the reputation of the brand. However, even the most durable machines require regular maintenance to operate at their best.

Maintenance Contracts

“This is where maintenance contracts come into play. Securing a maintenance contract with a reputable service provider ensures that the laundry equipment is regularly serviced and maintained, which can significantly extend its lifespan and reduce the likelihood of breakdowns. These contracts can also provide peace of mind, knowing that if a machine does malfunction, it will be repaired or replaced quickly, minimising downtime.

“Maintenance contracts can be tailored to the specific needs of the facility, ranging from basic service plans to comprehensive packages that include emergency call-outs and replacement of wear-and-tear parts. This is why we’ve introduced an range of maintenance contracts at Wolf Laundry, each providing differing levels of cover to help our customers manage operational risks and ensure that laundry operations run smoothly.

“In conclusion, selecting commercial laundry equipment for public sector buildings is a multifaceted task that demands careful planning from the outset. It’s about finding a balance between cost, durability, efficiency, and suitability to specific needs, while also considering the long-term maintenance and operation of the equipment.

“Success requires a strategic approach, involving early planning in new builds, choosing the right equipment that offers the best value over its lifespan, and securing maintenance contracts to ensure ongoing efficiency and reliability. By addressing these considerations, public sector facilities can ensure they have laundry solutions that meet their needs and provide value for many years to come.”

Miles has 16 years of experience in commercial laundry and specialises in public sector partnerships at Wolf Laundry.