How Loud Is a Commercial Dishwasher During Operation? Suitability for Open Kitchens
Open kitchens—where diners can see, smell, and interact with the cooking process—have become a beloved trend in restaurants, cafes, and bistros. But this design comes with a catch: noise. A loud commercial dishwasher for sale can disrupt the ambiance, drown out conversations, and ruin the guest experience. At AT Cooker, we understand this challenge—our commercial dishwasher machine for restaurant models (like the ZFGT-A series) are engineered with noise reduction in mind, making them suitable for both closed and open kitchen layouts. In this guide, we’ll break down how loud commercial dishwashers typically are, what noise levels work for open kitchens, and how to choose a quiet, efficient commercial dishwasher for sale that keeps your guests happy and your kitchen running smoothly.
What Do Decibel (dB) Levels Actually Sound Like?
To understand commercial dishwasher noise, it helps to put decibel levels in everyday terms. The CDC and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) provide this reference guide:
- 30 dB: Whisper (close range)
- 50 dB: Quiet office or library
- 60 dB: Normal conversation (1-2 feet away)
- 65 dB: Busy restaurant (background chatter)
- 70 dB: Vacuum cleaner (3 feet away)
- 80 dB: Garbage disposal (close range)
Key takeaway: For open kitchens, you want a commercial dishwasher for sale that blends into the background—no louder than normal conversation.
Typical Commercial Dishwasher Noise Levels: 60-70 Decibels (dB)
Most standard commercial dishwasher for sale models operate between 60-70 dB—roughly the volume of a normal conversation or a quiet vacuum cleaner. This range is manageable in closed kitchens (where walls block sound), but it can be intrusive in open layouts, where noise travels directly to dining areas. For example, a 70 dB dishwasher in an open kitchen would be as loud as a garbage disposal, making it hard for guests to talk over.
| Dishwasher Type | Typical Noise Level (dB) | Reason for Noise | Suitability for Open Kitchens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undercounter (e.g., AT Cooker ZFGT-A2D) | 58-65 dB | Compact design, smaller pumps/motors | Good (if ≤65 dB) |
| Door-Type (e.g., AT Cooker ZFGT-A 90S) | 62-68 dB | Larger tanks, more powerful spray arms | Fair (needs noise reduction features) |
| Conveyor | 68-75 dB | Continuous motor, multiple wash zones | Poor (too loud for most open kitchens) |
As you can see, undercounter models are the quietest choice for open kitchens—especially when they include noise-reducing features. AT Cooker’s ZFGT-A2D commercial dishwasher machine for restaurant falls at 58-62 dB, making it one of the quietest options on the commercial dishwasher for sale market.
High-End Commercial Dishwashers: 55 dB & Below with Noise Reduction Tech
Premium commercial dishwasher for sale models—like select AT Cooker ZFGT series units—use advanced noise reduction technology to operate at 55 dB or lower. At this level, the dishwasher is quieter than a normal conversation, blending seamlessly into the background of an open kitchen. These models are worth the investment for restaurants that prioritize ambiance, as they let guests focus on their meals and conversations without distraction.
AT Cooker’s Noise Reduction Features for Quiet Operation
Our high-end commercial dishwasher machine for restaurant models (available at AT Cooker’s Commercial Dishwasher for Sale Page) include these quiet-focused design elements:
- Double-layer insulated door: Blocks spray arm noise from escaping the tank.
- Rubberized pump mounts: Reduces vibration (a major source of noise) from the motor.
- Sound-dampening base pads: Prevents the machine from transferring noise to the floor.
- Low-noise spray arms: Designed with curved nozzles to minimize water turbulence.
According to Foodservice Equipment Reports (FER), noise reduction features add 5-10% to the commercial dishwasher cost, but they deliver significant returns in guest satisfaction—especially for open kitchens.
Open Kitchens Need Commercial Dishwashers Below 65 dB
Open kitchen environments demand stricter noise standards than closed kitchens. The sweet spot for an open layout is a commercial dishwasher for sale with a noise level of 65 dB or lower. At this volume, the machine is no louder than the background chatter of diners, so it doesn’t dominate the room. A dishwasher above 65 dB—even by 5 dB—can make conversations strained, leading to negative reviews and repeat business loss.
- In a 50-seat open cafe: The ZFGT-A2D (60 dB) is barely noticeable over the sound of guests talking and coffee machines.
- In a fine dining open kitchen: Paired with quiet kitchen restaurant equipment (e.g., induction cooktops), the dishwasher blends into the ambient noise, keeping the focus on the chefs.
- In a busy bistro: Even during peak hours (when the dishwasher runs continuously), the 60 dB operation doesn’t disrupt table service.
Test Tip: Before buying a commercial dishwasher for sale, ask the manufacturer for a noise test report. AT Cooker provides third-party lab results showing our models’ dB levels, so you can verify they’ll work for your open kitchen.
Insulation & Sound-Dampening Materials Reduce Noise
Modern commercial dishwasher for sale models use insulation and sound-dampening materials to muffle operational noise. These features are especially important for stainless steel machines—since stainless steel is a hard material that amplifies sound, unlike plastic (which absorbs more noise). Without proper insulation, a stainless steel dishwasher can be 5-10 dB louder than a plastic one.
- Insulated tanks: Foam or rubber insulation around the wash tank blocks noise from water splashing and spray arms rotating. AT Cooker’s ZFGT-A series uses 10mm thick foam insulation.
- Rubber gaskets on doors: Creates a tight seal that prevents noise from escaping through gaps. Our models use food-grade rubber gaskets that also reduce vibration.
- Sound-absorbing base panels: Thick panels under the machine absorb vibration from the motor and pump, stopping noise from traveling through the floor. AT Cooker’s base panels are made from recycled rubber for extra sound absorption.
- Enclosed motors: Covering the motor with a sound-dampening housing reduces the high-pitched hum common in open-motor models. All AT Cooker dishwashers have enclosed, fan-cooled motors.
These features don’t just reduce noise—they also improve the dishwasher’s efficiency. Insulated tanks, for example, keep water hotter for longer, reducing the need for the heater to cycle on and off. This lowers commercial dishwasher cost over time, making the initial investment in a quiet model worthwhile.
Dishwasher Type Impacts Noise: Undercounter = Quietest, Conveyor = Loudest
The type of commercial dishwasher for sale you choose has a huge impact on noise levels. As we saw earlier, undercounter models are the quietest, while conveyor systems are the loudest. This is because each type has different moving parts and sizes:
- Undercounter models (58-65 dB): Compact design means smaller motors, pumps, and spray arms—all of which produce less noise. They’re also installed under counters, which act as additional sound barriers. AT Cooker’s ZFGT-A2D is a top choice for open kitchens, as it fits neatly under bar or prep counters and operates at 60 dB.
- Door-type models (62-68 dB): Larger than undercounter units, with more powerful spray arms to handle bigger loads. While they’re louder, many (like AT Cooker’s ZFGT-A 90S) include insulation to bring noise down to 65 dB or lower. They’re a good choice for medium-sized open kitchens that need more capacity than undercounter models.
- Conveyor models (68-75 dB): The loudest type, with continuous motors, multiple wash zones, and moving belts. Their noise level makes them unsuitable for most open kitchens—they’re better for large closed dish rooms in hotels or convention centers.
When shopping for a commercial dishwasher for sale for an open kitchen, prioritize undercounter or insulated door-type models. Conveyor systems should only be considered if you have a separate, enclosed dish area away from diners.
Installation & Maintenance Minimize Noise
Even the quietest commercial dishwasher for sale can become loud if installed or maintained poorly. Here’s how proper setup and upkeep keep noise levels low:
- Level the machine: A dishwasher that’s not level will vibrate more, increasing noise. Use a bubble level to ensure the unit is even on all sides. AT Cooker’s installation guides include step-by-step leveling instructions.
- Use vibration pads: Place rubber or foam pads under the dishwasher’s feet to absorb vibration. These cost $10-$20 and can reduce noise by 3-5 dB.
- Seal gaps around the unit: If the dishwasher is installed in a counter cutout, use sound-dampening foam tape to seal gaps—this prevents noise from escaping into the dining area.
- Position away from dining tables: Even in open kitchens, placing the dishwasher 10+ feet from guest tables reduces perceived noise. Use prep tables or storage cabinets as a buffer.
- Clean spray arms: Clogged spray arms cause uneven water flow, leading to rattling or squealing. Clean them weekly with warm soapy water.
- Lubricate door hinges: Dry hinges squeak when the door is opened/closed. Use food-grade lubricant every 3 months to keep them quiet.
- Tighten loose parts: Vibration can loosen screws on panels or handles. Check and tighten all visible screws monthly.
- Replace worn gaskets: Cracked door gaskets let noise escape and cause leaks. Replace them at the first sign of wear—AT Cooker offers replacement gaskets as part of our commercial dishwasher service.
AT Cooker’s commercial dishwasher service team can help with professional installation and regular maintenance, ensuring your machine stays quiet for years. Many customers find that routine service reduces noise by 5-10 dB compared to neglected units.
Quiet Cycles & Soft-Close Features for Noise-Sensitive Periods
Some commercial dishwasher for sale models offer “quiet cycle” options—slower, gentler cycles that reduce noise by 5-8 dB. These are perfect for noise-sensitive periods in open kitchens, like:
- Brunch service (when guests linger and talk more)
- Fine dining dinner service (where a quiet ambiance is key)
- Private events (like weddings or business meetings)
For example, a restaurant using AT Cooker’s ZFGT-A 90S can switch to the quiet cycle during dinner service (reducing noise from 65 dB to 58 dB) and use the standard cycle during busy lunch rushes (when background noise is higher). This flexibility lets you balance efficiency and ambiance.
Kitchen Acoustics & Positioning Mitigate Noise
The acoustics of your kitchen space—like ceiling height, wall materials, and furniture—can affect how loud your commercial dishwasher for sale sounds to guests. For example:
- High ceilings (10+ feet) cause noise to echo, making a 60 dB dishwasher sound louder.
- Hard surfaces (tile floors, stainless steel walls) reflect noise, while soft surfaces (wooden tables, fabric banquettes) absorb it.
- Open shelving or bar tops can channel noise directly to diners, while closed cabinets block it.
- Place it near other equipment in kitchen that produces background noise (e.g., refrigerators, coffee machines)—the dishwasher will blend in instead of standing out.
- Use a tall prep table or storage unit as a “sound barrier” between the dishwasher and dining area.
- Avoid placing it directly behind the host stand or near quiet corners where guests sit to talk.
- If possible, install it against an exterior wall—this keeps noise from bouncing into the dining room.
AT Cooker’s team can help you plan the best position for your commercial dishwasher for sale—just share your kitchen layout, and we’ll provide a custom recommendation.
Conclusion: Choose a Quiet Commercial Dishwasher for Your Open Kitchen
For open kitchens, a commercial dishwasher for sale’s noise level is just as important as its capacity or efficiency. Look for models that operate at 65 dB or lower—like AT Cooker’s ZFGT-A2D (60 dB) or ZFGT-A 90S (65 dB)—and include noise-reducing features: insulation, soft-close doors, and quiet cycles. These elements ensure the dishwasher doesn’t disrupt the guest experience, keeping your open kitchen’s ambiance inviting and conversational.
At AT Cooker, we understand the unique challenges of open kitchen design. Our commercial dishwasher machine for restaurant models are engineered to be quiet, durable, and efficient—backed by our commercial dishwasher service team for installation and maintenance. Whether you’re a small cafe or a fine dining restaurant, we have a commercial dishwasher for sale that fits your open kitchen’s needs and budget.
Ready to find a quiet commercial dishwasher? Contact AT Cooker today to learn more about our ZFGT series and how they can enhance your open kitchen. With 20 years of experience in kitchen equipment for restaurant, we’re your trusted partner for creating a space that’s both functional for staff and enjoyable for guests.
