If you're looking to put money back into your business and see a return on your investment with your bathroom supplies, then it's time to make the switch to a hand dryer. Hand dryers are a zero waste, hygienic option for just about any business, delivering both cleanliness and peace of mind.
There are 7 main factors that go into the hand dryer decision-making process. By considering the following, you'll be well informed when it's time to buy.
The versatility of hand dryers ensures they can accommodate all your needs. Electric hand dryers can come as a heated hand dryer or an unheated hand dryer. Both provide different efficiency levels based on the needs of the business, although heated hand dryers have the added benefit of water evaporation and offer comfort to the user.
Here are some of the popular categories.
The option is available to have a recess- or surface-mounted hand dryer, depending on the flow of your bathroom.
Recessed hand dryers are built directly into a wall box and then installed onto a bathroom wall. They save wall space and are protected from potential damage.
Surface mount hand dryers are installed directly onto a bathroom wall. They don't require additional parts for installation and are easily noticeable.
Push button and automatic hand dryers come in 3 different styles as well.
With this hand dryer, hot air is blown downward and away from the user. There’s no basin underneath, so the chance of germs being collected is minimal, although they can be diverted to the surrounding walls or floor.
This hand dryer is designed for the user to insert their hands into it. While the dry time is relatively fast with a trough model, there is more of a chance of touching shared, unclean surfaces.
This hand dryer is built directly into the top of a sink deck. The user can easily move from rinsing their hands to drying them without leaving the area. The water from the user’s hands is blown directly back into the sink, making this the most hygienic option.
Hand dryers and paper towels both have advantages and disadvantages when it comes to sanitation. In short, automatic hand dryers with built-in HEPA filters are more sanitary than damp paper towels that are left lying around the restroom.
There are many sides to the hand dryer vs. paper towel debate. Paper towels are quiet yet wasteful, while hand dryers are louder yet produce zero waste. Hand dryers have a longer lifespan than paper towels, which must be frequently replenished. Here's a more in-depth breakdown:
Modern hand dryers have the option to be installed with HEPA filters, which are certified to remove a high percentage of particulates from the surrounding environment. For example, 99.99% of viruses are removed from the air with XLERATOR hand dryers that feature HEPA filters. High-speed hand dryers with HEPA filters are the best defense against the spread of bacteria, outweighing both paper towels and conventional hand dryers. If your unit uses a HEPA filter, the filter should be replaced every 6 to 12 months.
Wall guards can also be used in conjunction with HEPA filters to keep the surrounding area hygienic. Wall guards feature antimicrobial designs that protect your walls from water droplet stains and other residue. This prevents bacteria from building up.
While the installation of a hand dryer is not complicated, it's highly suggested that it be done by a licensed electrician. Before installation, it's important to calculate the correct hand dryer voltage you'll need based on the current voltages being used throughout your business. A licensed electrician can determine how much voltage is available for use and compare that to the voltage settings of the hand dryers you're considering. Once installed, you can enjoy years of superior hand dryer performance!