Why Is 71°C Important for Commercial Dishwasher Sanitization?

 

A commercial dishwasher typically uses different temperatures for washing and final rinsing. The main wash commonly operates around 55–65°C to remove grease and food residue, while the final rinse often reaches 80–90°C to support thermal sanitization.

But why is 71°C so important?

What Does 71°C Mean in Commercial Dishwashing?

The 71°C (160°F) requirement refers to the minimum surface temperature that utensils must reach during hot-water sanitization under the U.S. FDA Food Code.

This is different from the water temperature displayed on a Commercial Dishwashing Machine. Even when the final rinse water reaches 82°C or higher, the actual temperature of plates, bowls and other utensils may be lower.

That is why checking the tableware surface temperature provides an additional way to verify the sanitization process.

How Do We Test the 71°C Temperature?

At HENGZE, we use a 71°C temperature indicator sticker to demonstrate the heat reached by tableware during the dishwasher cycle.

The test is simple:

1. Before testing: The temperature indicator is gold.

2. During washing: The sticker is placed on the tableware and passes through the dishwasher cycle.

3. After testing: When the indicator reaches its specified activation temperature of 71°C, it permanently turns black.

The color change confirms that the sticker has reached its activation temperature, providing a simple visual check of the heat exposure during the wash cycle.

For operators using a Restaurant Dishwasher, this type of test can help verify performance without relying only on the machine's temperature display.

Why Is Temperature Control Important?

A reliable Commercial Kitchen Dishwasher needs to do more than wash dishes quickly. Proper temperature control helps support consistent cleaning and thermal sanitization, especially during busy service hours.

The HENGZE Commercial Dishwasher Machine is designed with separate washing and high-temperature rinsing stages to handle daily restaurant and catering operations.

By combining suitable washing temperatures, effective rinsing and regular temperature checks, commercial kitchens can maintain a more reliable dishwashing process.

HENGZE – Commercial Dishwashing Solutions for Professional Kitchens.