When it comes to running a restaurant, few pieces of equipment are as essential as the dishwasher. But while owning a dishwasher may seem like the most straightforward option, the hidden costs of ownership can add up quickly—and eat away at your bottom line. Renting, on the other hand, offers flexibility, predictable expenses, and peace of mind.

Let’s break down why renting beats buying, with a closer look at maintenance, depreciation, and repair costs.

1. Maintenance Costs

When you own a commercial dishwasher, you’re on the hook for all maintenance—routine or unexpected. Routine maintenance can cost anywhere from $200–$500 annually, depending on usage. But that doesn’t include emergencies. If your dishwasher goes down during a dinner rush, calling in a technician can set you back $100–$150 an hour, plus parts.

Real-world example: A mid-sized restaurant in Charlotte faced $900 in maintenance costs in just one year due to water pump failures. With a rental program, those costs would have been included in their monthly fee.

2. Depreciation

Like cars, dishwashers lose value the moment you install them. A brand-new commercial dishwasher can cost between $3,000–$10,000. After five years, resale value drops by more than half, and by then most operators are considering replacement anyway.

That means you’re investing thousands in equipment that continuously loses value—without providing long-term return. Rentals eliminate depreciation concerns entirely.

3. Repair Costs

Even well-maintained machines break down. Common repairs include replacing heating elements, pumps, and control panels. These can range from $400–$1,200 per repair. In many cases, operators face repeat issues that drain budgets and disrupt service.

Real-world example: A busy bistro in Greenville, SC had to replace its dishwasher’s control board twice in 18 months. Total repair cost: $1,800. Under a rental program, that repair would have been covered—at no extra cost.

The Smart Solution: Rent with Confidence

Instead of tying up capital in equipment that depreciates and racks up maintenance bills, many restaurants are turning to rental programs for simplicity and predictability.

Dishwasher Rental Program

Take advantage of our All-Inclusive Rental Program and say goodbye to surprise expenses. For one low monthly fee, you’ll receive:

✅ Upright single tank or under-counter machine*
✅ 24-hour maintenance
✅ Chemicals included (up to cycles stated in contract**)

💵 Rates starting as low as $110/month! (Includes 500 cycles)

📦 Additional Options:

Pre-purchase extra cycles in increments of 1,000 at discounted prices
Usage over contracted cycles billed at just $.06 per cycle

🎁 Refer & Earn:
Refer a fellow restaurateur to our Dishwasher Rental Program and earn one free month credited to your account!
👉 Email referrals to: dishwasher@gofrs.com

Stop worrying about repairs, maintenance, and rising costs—rent your dishwasher with FRS and keep your kitchen running smoothly.