Hobart pass-through dishwasher with four-sided hood in a commercial kitchen.

Hobart Pass-Through Dishwashers Explained: How They Work & When to Choose One

Pass-through dishwashers, sometimes referred to as “hood dishwashers,” are designed for kitchens that need a faster, more ergonomic and more efficient washing workflow. As a key part of Hobart’s professional warewashing range, they offer consistent high-performance results with a streamlined in–out rack system that keeps service moving smoothly. 

Hobart make pass-through models for all of their major ranges: Ecomax; Ecomax Plus; Profi; and Premax.

In this guide, we explain exactly how Hobart pass-through dishwashers work, who they are best suited for, and how they compare with Hobart’s undercounter models. 


What Is a Pass-Through Dishwasher? 

A pass-through dishwasher is a commercial machine that washes full racks of crockery, cutlery and utensils using a vertical lifting hood. The rack enters from one side of the machine, and after washing, it exits from the opposite side, creating a continuous, efficient workflow. 

This makes them ideal for kitchens that handle high volumes or require fast turnover between services. 

 

How Hobart Pass-Through Dishwashers Work 

1. Inlet/Outlet Rack System (Dirties & Cleans Tabling) 

Racks are loaded on one side, pre-scrapped and pre-rinsed, washed inside the dishwasher, and unloaded on the opposite side, reducing bottlenecks and keeping staff movement efficient and strain free. 

2. Ergonomic Loading Height 

The elevated loading height minimises bending and improves comfort for staff during long shifts. 

3. Stable Washing Conditions 

Hobart pass-through dishwashers maintain consistent temperature and wash quality throughout demanding service periods. 

4. Double-Skinned Construction 

Profi and Premax pass-through models use insulated, double-skinned panels to reduce heat loss, increase efficiency and keep exterior noise levels low. 

5. Unique Soil Removal System (PREMAX Only) 

Premax pass-through dishwashers, such as the AUPT, include Hobart’s exclusive soil removal system, which continuously extracts food debris during the wash. 
This provides: 

  • Cleaner wash water 
  • Less manual pre-rinsing 
  • Improved consistency during busy periods 
  • Better real-world throughput 

This feature is unique to Hobart and only available on Premax pass-through machines. 


When to Choose a Hobart Pass-Through Dishwasher 

Pass-through machines are ideal for medium-to-heavy usage kitchens that require speed, consistency and a smooth production flow. 

✓ Restaurants with multi-service periods 

Perfect for lunchtime and evening operational peaks. 

✓ Hotels & Hospitality Venues 

Ideal for main kitchens, banqueting teams and high-throughput areas. 

✓ Schools, Colleges & Education Sites 

Support repeated meal services with reliable, stable wash performance. 

✓ Medium-Large Care Homes & Healthcare Environments 

Excellent for maintaining hygiene where multiple wash cycles occur daily. 

✓ Production Kitchens 

Designed for continuous workflows with minimal interruption. 

✓ Busy Cafés & Foodservice Operations 

Ensures fast recovery and consistent performance during surges. 

If your kitchen processes more than 40–50 racks per hour, a pass-through dishwasher is often the most suitable option. 


Pass-Through vs Undercounter Dishwashers 

Pass-Through Advantages 

  • Higher workflow efficiency thanks to the in–out rack system 
  • Better suited to busy or multi-person kitchens 
  • Ergonomic loading height reduces strain and improves speed 
  • More powerful for faster heat up and recovery times 
  • Premax-only soil removal system enhances throughput 

Undercounter Strengths 

  • More compact footprint 
  • Lower installation requirements 
  • Ideal for smaller kitchens, bars and sites with lower daily usage 
  • Lower overall running costs 

If space allows, pass-through models offer greater operational efficiency and are preferred in most professional kitchens with steady or heavy demand. 


Key Benefits of Hobart Pass-Through Dishwashers 

Consistent high-quality washing 

Stable temperatures and advanced wash systems ensure reliable cleaning during busy service. 

Energy-efficient operation 

Hobart’s double-skinned designs reduce heat loss and improve thermal management. 

Improved staff workflow 

The linear rack movement reduces handling time and keeps service flowing smoothly. 

Reduced manual pre-rinsing (PREMAX) 

The soil removal system removes debris throughout the wash cycle, lowering water use and labour. 

Flexible integration 

Compatible with tabling, sinks, pre-rinse sprays and straight-line or corner configurations. 

Installation Considerations 

Before choosing a pass-through machine, ensure you have: 

  • Adequate space for in–out rack movement for machine operators 
  • Suitable workflow direction (left-to-right or right-to-left) 
  • Correct drainage and plumbing 
  • Appropriate ventilation 
  • Space for tabling on both sides 
  • Sufficient electrical capacity 

Once your dishwasher is on its way, don't forget to stock up on cleaning chemicals, such as Hygiene Tablets and Descaler.

Explore Hobart Pass-Through Dishwashers 

Looking for a high-performance pass-through dishwasher for your kitchen? 

[Browse Hobart Pass-Through Dishwashers →]

Still not sure which type of dishwasher is best for you?

[Read our Dishwasher Buying Guide →]

 

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Frequently Asked Questions
  • Do Hobart pass-through dishwashers need ventilation?

    It depends on the model and your kitchen layout. Many commercial kitchens use condense or extraction canopies to manage steam, but Hobart’s pass-through models are designed to minimise this requirement. All Hobart pass-through dishwashers feature a unique four-sided hood. This fully enclosed design captures a significant amount of steam, helping to reduce heat loss, improve running costs, and limit steam escaping into the wash area. As a result, many sites find that the need for a dedicated canopy or extraction system is reduced.

  • Are pass-through machines faster than undercounters?

    Cycle times are often similar, but pass-through machines allow faster workflows and better real-world throughput.

  • Do Premax pass-through models include additional features?

    Yes, only Premax models include the unique soil removal system, along with advanced energy-saving technology.

  • Can they wash larger utensils or trays?

    Yes, depending on the chamber size. For heavy pots and pans, a dedicated utensil washer is recommended.