Hobart Dishwasher Installation Requirements: A Practical Guide for Commercial Kitchens

Installing a commercial dishwasher is not just about placing the machine and switching it on. Correct installation is essential for achieving the wash performance, energy efficiency and long-term reliability Hobart machines are known for. 

This guide explains the key installation requirements for Hobart dishwashers across the Ecomax, Ecomax Plus, Profi and Premax ranges. Whether you’re installing an undercounter, glasswasher or pass-through dishwasher, this article outlines what your kitchen needs before delivery and installation take place. 

This installation guide covers Hobart glasswashers, undercounter dishwashers and pass-through (hood) dishwashers. 
Specialist equipment such as rack conveyor machines and utensil washers requires a site-specific survey, bespoke tabling and customised utility planning, and is therefore not included in this general guide. 

 

Why Proper Installation Matters 

A correctly installed dishwasher ensures: 

• Consistent wash and rinse temperatures 
• Fast cycle recovery times 
• Lower running costs 
• Reduced breakdown risk 
• Compliance with hygiene and safety standards 
• A smoother, more efficient kitchen workflow 

Poor installation can lead to drainage issues, slow heating, steam problems, and reduced wash quality, all of which can be avoided with the right preparation. 

Space & Positioning Requirements 

1. Adequate Space for the Machine 

Check the machine’s dimensions (including cables, hoses and door/hood clearance). Ensure: 

• Sufficient ventilation space 
• Enough room for operators to load and unload comfortably 
• No obstruction to the lifting hood on pass-through models 

2. Workflow Direction (Pass-Through Models) 

Choose a straight-line or corner configuration that aligns with your kitchen’s movement patterns. 

Common setups: 

• Left-to-right workflow 
• Right-to-left workflow 
• Corner pass-through layout 

Correct tabling layout significantly improves efficiency during busy periods. 

Electrical Requirements 

Electrical supply varies by model. Always check the specification sheet for the exact kW rating. 

Considerations: 

• A dedicated circuit is strongly recommended 
• An isolator switch should be installed within 1–2 metres 
• Cable routes must not obstruct the machine or hood movement 
  

Water Supply Requirements 

1. Hot or Cold Feed? 

Hobart dishwashers accept either, but using a hot feed (50 - 60°C) is particularly useful for machines on lower power settings, helping improve: 

• Heat-up times 
• Energy efficiency 
• Cycle recovery speeds 

2. Water Pressure 

Hobart machines require stable incoming water pressure. 

Typical requirement: 
0.6 - 10 bar (model-dependent) 

If pressure is too low or too high, a booster pump or pressure-reducing valve may be required. 

3. Water Softening 

Limescale is one of the main causes of dishwasher breakdowns. 

Hobart machines may include: 

• Built-in softeners (model-dependent) 
• External softeners 

Sites in hard-water areas must use softening to protect the machine’s components and improve wash results.  

If fitting an external softener, ensure there is enough space to position it in an accessible location, ideally next to the dishwasher for easy regeneration and servicing. Most external automatic softeners require an electrical supply. 
Be aware that external softeners can reduce incoming water pressure; this must be considered when checking the dishwasher’s minimum water pressure requirements to ensure correct operation. 

Drainage Requirements 

Dishwashers use one of two drainage systems: 

1. Gravity Drain 

• Requires a floor-level drain 
• Machine must sit higher than the drain point 
• Common in older kitchens 

2. Drain Pump (Fitted to all Hobart warewashers as standard) 

• Allows flexible installation 
• Can pump water up to the drain height 
• Ideal where floor drains aren’t available 
• Standpipe recommended 
• Drain point to ideally be located within 1 metre of the machine  

Improper drainage leads to slow or no emptying, poor wash quality and premature component wear. 

 

Ventilation & Steam Management 

Dishwashers generate steam, especially during the drying or door-opening phase. 

Undercounter & Glasswashers 

Usually do not require mechanical extraction, but adequate air movement improves operator comfort. 

Pass-Through Dishwashers 

Hobart’s four-sided hood design significantly reduces steam release, but kitchens may still require: 

• Extraction system 
• Condense hood (site dependent) 

A ventilation assessment is recommended for enclosed or compact wash areas. 

Tabling & Integration Requirements 

Correct tabling improves hygiene, speed and ergonomics. 

For Pass-Through Machines 

Include: 

• Clean and dirty tabling 
• Dirties sink with Pre-rinse spray arm 
• Adequate space for racks 
• Straight-line or corner layouts 
• Adequate cleans table for drying/unloading 

For Undercounters 

Ensure: 

• A suitable loading height – possible stand required 
• Nearby pre-rinse sink 
• Area for drying/unloading 

Delivery & Access Requirements 

Before delivery, confirm: 

• Doorways are wide enough 
• Steps or narrow passages are manageable 
• The route to the kitchen is clear 
• Enough space is available to manoeuvre the machine 
• Any old equipment is removed beforehand – disconnection and removal service available 

This prevents failed deliveries and additional costs. 

 

Checklist for a Successful Installation 

• Correct electrical supply available 
• Water feed accessible with correct pressure 
• Water softener installed (if required) 
• Drainage suitable for pump system, standpipe in place 
• Ventilation assessed 
• Tabling in place, check it is suitable for the new machine for pass-through units – new tabling is available 
• Access route clear 
• Any old equipment is removed beforehand – disconnection and removal service available 

Explore Hobart Dishwashers 

Looking for a machine that fits your installation setup? 

Browse Undercounter Models → 

Browse Pass-Through Dishwashers → 

Browse All Hobart Ranges → 

Run out of cleaning supplies for your warewasher?

Browse Chemicals & Cleaning →