Selecting the Right Commercial Dryers for Your Laundromat

09 Jun.,2025

 

Selecting the Right Commercial Dryers for Your Laundromat

Table of contents

Commercial laundry equipment is helpful for a diverse array of businesses and organizations, whether it’s laundromats, the hospitality industry, healthcare, or education. In this blog post, the team at Ed Brown Distributors will look at different styles of commercial dryers, how their efficiency impacts you, and some other factors to consider when looking into commercial dryers. 

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Located in North Texas, Oklahoma, or Arkansas? If so, the experts at Ed Brown Distributors can help you select the optimal commercial dryer for your needs, along with other commercial laundry machines. Whether you are looking into owning a laundromat, currently own one, or are affiliated with a business or organization that relies on commercial laundry equipment, let us put our experience to work for you.

Understanding the Importance of Efficient Commercial Dryers

Efficiency is more than a buzzword. An energy-efficient commercial dryer will be a major benefit to your business. It will enable you to save money on your utility bills. Over time, these savings can add up. Energy-efficient dryers are better for the environment and can also be a marketing feature for environmentally-conscious customers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Commercial Dryers

Commercial laundromat dryers come in a variety of styles and sizes. Here, we’ll break down some of them to help you find the right dryer to fit your needs.

Capacity and Size

You’ll find a variety of commercial dryers on the market with different sizes and capacities. No matter what size dryer you select, you’ll need to ensure it can physically fit into the area you plan to use it in. If the dryer does fit, can it be transported to that area without modifying the building it is housed in?

It is important to have an appropriate dryer capacity for your needs. Certain places, like hospitals and hotels, tend to need bigger dryers than a nail salon. If you have larger objects that need to be dried, such as sheets, you must ensure the dryer can accommodate them. If a dryer is overloaded, it could damage linens. On the other hand, having too large a dryer for your needs is wasteful. 

Ed Brown Distributors offers several sizes of dryers to help you find an excellent fit for your business or organization. Our Continental Gibrau E-Series Dryers are on the smaller side while still offering great durability and efficiency. Some of our LG dryers feature reversible doors to help people make the most out of tight spaces.

Energy Efficiency

Be sure to research the efficiency of the commercial dryers you are looking at. This can significantly affect how expensive it is to operate the dryer. Energy-efficient commercial dryers can save money on operating costs over time. When a dryer utilizes shorter cycles, it will be less expensive. Generally, a gas dryer will be more energy efficient than an electric dryer.

Ed Brown Distributors offers a range of energy-efficient dryers that will help you save money while protecting the environment. Fagor’s Green Flow System© brings back expelled air inside the dryer’s drum, which helps to save energy.

Drying Speed and Technology

When many customers or employees are trying to dry their clothes simultaneously, having a dryer with a quick drying time can help keep the line moving. Gas dryers feature a shorter drying time than electric dryers. 

We proudly offer several energy-efficient commercial dryers with exciting technology that allows for faster drying times. Some of our Fagor dryers feature an IDRY© moisture sensor. This sensor enables the dryer to stop when the sensor no longer detects moisture, saving time and energy. Fagor’s compact dryers generally will take under 45 minutes. 

Assessing Your Laundry Volume

It is important to have a good understanding of the volume of laundry you will be dealing with. That will dictate the size of dryer you need and, if necessary, how many dryers you will need to buy. While having too many dryers will be a waste of money, having too few will lead to bottlenecks during busy times and frustrated customers who may take their business elsewhere.

Budget Considerations

While you must purchase a commercial dryer within your budget, it may not be as simple as it sounds. Some commercial dyers may not be as reliable as others. The cheapest dryer may be more expensive in the long run. In addition to the initial cost, you’ll have to factor in the efficiency of the dryer and maintenance and repair costs over time. You’ll also have to determine if you purchase the equipment outright or lease it.

Types of Commercial Dryers for Laundromats

Commercial laundromat dryers come in several types and configurations. Here, we’ll look at some common differences between types of dryers.

Stacked vs. Side-by-Side Dryers

In this section, Ed Brown Distributors will examine the advantages and disadvantages of dryers that are stacked or side-by-side. When you work with us, the experts at Ed Brown Distributors are happy to help you find the right arrangement for your situation.

Stacked Dryers

Stacked commercial dryers (one on top of another) are great when space is at a premium—for example, at an apartment or dorm. Commercial stacked dryers come in both one-piece and individual units. You’ll also find both dryer/dryer and washer/dryer configurations. Please keep in mind that these tend to have more weight than a regular dryer, so it is especially important to ensure that the surface the stacked dryer is on can support the weight.

Please note that not every dryer is stackable. This is why it is so important to have any installation done by a trained professional.

Advantages of Stacked Dryers

  • A great way to optimize space – Stacked dryers feature a smaller footprint compared to equipment that is side by side and is great for places where space is at a premium.
  • Some may prefer the elevated position of a stacked unit – Certain people may not want to lean over to load or unload laundry from the dryer.

Disadvantages of Stacked Dryers

  • Some people may have difficulty reaching the top unit – Stacked dryers can present difficulties for shorter people or those in wheelchairs. According to access-board.gov, “Where appliances are stacked, including combination washers-dryers, accessible units typically need to be separate (i.e., side-by-side) to meet reach range and door opening requirements.”
  • Repairs may take longer – Depending on the nature of the repair, a technician may take longer to repair the unit. Please note: laundry equipment repairs should only be carried out by trained professionals.
  • More complex installation – Unless the stacked dryer is one piece, one unit will have to be stacked upon another, making the installation process more complicated and potentially more time-consuming. It demonstrates the importance of relying on professionals to install and maintain your laundry equipment.

Side-by-Side Dryers

Side-by-side dryers are another option for people searching for commercial laundry, whether it is for a laundromat or business/organizational use. This is where two units are placed next to each other. The following are some advantages and disadvantages of side-by-side dryers.

Advantages of Side-by-Side Dryers

  • Side-by-side dryers may be easier to load and unload – Shorter people or those in wheelchairs might prefer the position of side-by-side dryers.
  • Less difficult installation – As side-by-side dryers aren’t stacked atop other units, installation should be easier. However, having side-by-side dryers installed by a professional is still a good idea.

Disadvantages of Side-by-Side Dryers

  • Side-by-side dryers take up more space – Compared with stacked dryers, side-by-side dryers require more horizontal space.  When you are dealing with limited space or have a laundromat that is frequently at capacity, this can be a big deal.
  • Some may find a side-by-side unit harder to use – The higher positioning of a stacked unit may be preferable to some users as opposed to leaning over to access a side-by-side dryer.

Gas vs. Electric Dryers

Gas and electric dryers offer different advantages and disadvantages. It should be noted that both need electricity to run. Here, we’ll compare the two types and discuss their characteristics. 

Gas Dryers

Gas dryers generate heat using either propane or natural gas. This heat is blown at the clothes via an electric fan.

Advantages of Gas Dryers

  • More affordable operating costs – As gas tends to be cheaper than electricity, gas dryers are cheaper to operate than electric dryers
  • Shorter drying times – Unlike electric dryers, a gas dryer reaches its maximum level instantly and is hotter overall. 
  • Better energy efficiency – Gas dryers do not have the energy loss that electric dryers have, making them more energy efficient.

Disadvantages of Gas Dryers 

  • More expensive initially – Gas dryers tend to cost more than electric dryers. 
  • Requires a gas connection – Not only does a gas dryer generally require more work to install, but there is also the risk of a gas leak (demonstrating the need for a carbon monoxide detector), fire, or even an explosion if the dryer is improperly installed or maintained. 

Electric Dryers

Electric dryers utilize heated air to dry objects. These have a heating element, along with a blower that pushes air through a drum.  

Advantages of Electric Dryers

  • Generally cheaper initial cost – An electric dryer tends to cost less than a gas dryer.
  • Simpler installation – With electric dryers, you won’t have the added hassle of dealing with gas lines.

Disadvantages of Electric Dryers

  • Operating costs are more expensive – As electricity tends to cost more than gas, operating an electric dryer will cost more than a gas dryer.
  • Drying laundry takes longer – Electric dryers take longer to dry loads since they heat up slower and do not get as hot as gas dryers.

Commercial Dryer Maintenance and Service Support

No matter how good your commercial dryer is, it will require regular inspections and maintenance to keep it working efficiently and safely. A commercial dryer breakdown isn’t only inconvenient; it can mean lost earnings, reduced efficiency, and potentially dangerous situations.

At Ed Brown Distributors, we don’t only sell quality commercial dryers and other commercial laundry equipment; we also service and repair them. Our technicians have comprehensive factory training to enable them to work on your equipment.

Customer Reviews

With decades of experience in the commercial laundry industry, we’ve helped many people. Below are several reviews we’ve received from satisfied customers.

For more information, please visit Industrial Dryer Supplier.

“These guys were great. From the sales crew to the team that installs. They are all very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. The service crew always goes above and beyond to make sure things are explained. Highly recommend.”

“Our organization has used the services of Ed Brown since . Recently we had to replace one of our commercial washers. Install was timely and the techs were very kind. Jesse is typically our service tech and he is great at providing customer service.”

Commercial Dryer Services in Dallas, Texas

Ed Brown Distributors is proud to help businesses by providing installation, maintenance, and repair services for commercial dryer equipment. We offer several exceptional brands and can use our years of experience to help you determine the best type of dryer for your business’s needs. If you’re in North Texas, Arkansas, or Oklahoma, we can help you get the most out of your commercial dryers. Contact us to get a free quote!

Additional Resources

Industrial Air Dryers for the Oil & Gas Industry: Why You Need One

Even minor disruptions can significantly impact production and profitability in the oil and gas industry. 

One crucial, yet often overlooked, factor is moisture control in compressed air systems. Moisture can wreak havoc, leading to equipment failures, compromised product quality, and safety hazards.

This is where industrial air dryers come into play, providing a solution to moisture problems and helping to meet stringent environmental regulations, like the Quad O guidelines.

Let's dive deeper into how these devices address moisture-related issues and contribute to a cleaner and safer industry, all while aligning with environmental regulations like the Quad O guidelines.

  1. What are Quad O Regulations?
  2. The Problem: Moisture in Compressed Air Systems
  3. The Solution: Industrial Air Dryers
  4. The Benefits of Using Desiccant Air Dryers for Oil & Gas Applications
  5. Five Benefits of Industrial Air Dryers for the Oil & Gas Industry
  6. Investing in Efficiency, Safety, and Compliance

What are Quad O Regulations?

The Quad O guidelines, formally known as EPA 40 CFR Part 60, Subpart OOOO (and subsequent amendments like OOOa and OOOc), are a set of regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These guidelines focus on controlling emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and methane from new, modified, and reconstructed oil and natural gas sources.

The significance of Quad O for oil and gas operations lies in its emphasis on reducing harmful air pollutants. VOCs contribute to the formation of smog and ground-level ozone, impacting human health and the environment. The regulations set specific standards for various equipment within oil and gas facilities, aiming to minimize these emissions.

For instance, Quad O emphasizes preventing leaks and equipment failures. Industrial air dryers, particularly desiccant dryers, achieve very low dew points and minimize moisture-related issues like corrosion and freezing that can lead to leaks and malfunctions. By promoting dry compressed air and efficient equipment operation, Quad O and industrial air dryers work together to ensure a cleaner and safer oil and gas industry.


The Problem: Moisture in Compressed Air Systems

Compressed air systems are inherently prone to moisture accumulation. This is because air naturally contains water vapor, and when compressed, the concentration of this moisture increases. In the oil and gas industry, the presence of moisture in compressed air can lead to several detrimental effects:

  1. Corrosion: Moisture within compressed air systems can cause corrosion in pipelines and equipment. This corrosion can lead to leaks and failures, posing serious safety hazards and necessitating costly repairs. Compliance with Quad O guidelines emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of equipment, making corrosion prevention crucial.
  2. Freezing: In environments where temperatures can drop significantly, the moisture in compressed air can freeze, causing blockages and damaging instruments. This can disrupt operations and lead to downtime, affecting overall productivity.
  3. Contamination: Moisture can also promote bacterial growth within compressed air systems. This contamination can affect the quality of products and compromise safety standards, which is unacceptable in an industry as regulated as oil and gas.

The Solution: Industrial Air Dryers

Industrial air dryers offer a robust solution for moisture in compressed air systems. These devices remove water vapor, ensuring the air used in operations is dry and free from moisture-related issues. Several types of industrial air dryers are available, each with its own benefits, but desiccant air dryer systems are particularly effective for the oil and gas industry.

Looking for an industrial air dryer? Explore Tsunami Compressed Air System's Ultra Series Drying Systems. Download our product sheet:

Refrigerated vs Desiccant Air Dryers: Selecting the Right Option for Oil & Gas Operations

Removing moisture from compressed air in oil and gas operations usually comes down to refrigerated and desiccant air dryers. Understanding their distinct functionalities is crucial for choosing the optimal solution for your specific needs.

The Technology Behind the Drying Power

Refrigerated air dryers operate like your home refrigerator. They use a refrigeration system to cool compressed air down to its dew point, the temperature at which moisture condenses. This condensed water is then collected in a drain. This approach offers a straightforward solution, but its effectiveness has limitations.

Desiccant air dryers employ a different approach. These dryers leverage the power of desiccant materials, which have a strong affinity for moisture. As compressed air passes through the desiccant bed, these materials adsorb moisture molecules, resulting in exceptionally dry air. This method allows desiccant air dryers to achieve significantly lower dew points than their refrigerated counterparts, a must for the oil and gas industry.

Dew Point: The Key Differentiator for Oil & Gas Operations

The dew point achieved by each dryer type is a critical factor for oil and gas applications. Refrigerated air dryers typically reach moderate dew points, around 35-40°F (2-4°C). While this might suffice for general industrial uses, it may not meet the stringent requirements of Quad O guidelines. 

Desiccant air dryers excel in this area. They can achieve exceptionally low dew points, reaching as low as -100°F (-73°C). This unparalleled drying capability makes them the preferred choice for oil and gas operations where even the slightest trace of moisture can have detrimental consequences.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two drying technologies:

Matching Applications with the Right Dryer

The ideal dryer for your operation depends on the specific application. Refrigerated air dryers are well-suited for general-purpose compressed air applications requiring moderately dry air. Examples include powering pneumatic tools used for maintenance tasks.

However, when it comes to critical oil and gas operations, desiccant air dryers are your top choice. Their ability to achieve ultra-low dew points is vital for:

  • Ensuring accurate and reliable operation of pneumatic instrumentation: Dry air is crucial for maintaining the precision of control systems and instruments used throughout oil and gas processes.
  • Preventing corrosion in pipelines: Moisture is a significant contributor to pipeline corrosion, which can lead to leaks, safety hazards, and product contamination. Desiccant air dryers remove moisture before it enters the pipeline, safeguarding its integrity.
  • Eliminating moisture-related issues at wellheads: Wellhead operations require dry air for powering tools and preventing problems caused by moisture, such as freezing or equipment malfunctions.

Environmental Considerations

The operating environment also plays a role in dryer selection. Refrigerated air dryers function well in moderate ambient temperatures. However, their efficiency can decrease in hot environments, where maintaining the desired dew point becomes more challenging.

Desiccant air dryers, on the other hand, offer greater environmental adaptability. Certain models are designed to withstand the harsh conditions common in oil and gas operations, including high ambient temperatures and exposure to corrosive elements.

The benefits of Using Desiccant Air Dryers for Oil & Gas Applications

Desiccant air dryers stand out due to their ability to achieve exceptionally low dew points, making them indispensable for critical oil and gas operations. By effectively removing moisture, these dryers prevent corrosion, freezing, and contamination, thereby enhancing operational reliability and safety. Here's a closer look at how desiccant air dryers benefit specific oil and gas applications:

  • Pneumatic instrumentation: Dry compressed air ensures accurate and reliable operation of pneumatic control systems and instruments, crucial for process control and safety.
  • Pipeline drying: Before transporting gas or oil through pipelines, removing moisture is essential to prevent corrosion and ensure product quality. Air dryers are critical for achieving this.
  • Wellhead operations: At the wellhead, dry air is needed for various operations, including powering pneumatic tools and preventing freezing of equipment. Moisture in compressed air can turn to ice at low temperatures, causing blockages in valves, instruments, and pipelines. This can disrupt operations, damage equipment, and potentially lead to safety hazards. 

Beyond these core benefits, desiccant air dryers offer a significant advantage for seamless integration into existing oil and gas operations. Unlike a complete system overhaul, desiccant air dryers can be installed with minimal disruption. The process typically involves:

  • Identifying a suitable location: Consider factors like space availability, access for maintenance, and proximity to the compressed air system.
  • Piping connections: The air dryer should be connected to the compressed air inlet and outlet lines.
  • Electrical connections: The dryer will require a power source to operate.
  • Start-up and commissioning: A qualified technician will ensure the dryer is properly configured and functioning optimally within your existing system.

Want to learn more about desiccant air dryers? See our beginner's guide:

5 Benefits of Industrial Air Dryers for the Oil & Gas Industry

Industrial air dryers, particularly desiccant air dryer systems, offer numerous benefits for oil and gas operations. These benefits align closely with the Quad O requirements, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards of efficiency, safety, and product quality.

1. Environmental Considerations

Dry air prevents corrosion, which is a major cause of equipment degradation in compressed air systems. By eliminating moisture, industrial air dryers help extend the lifespan of pipelines, valves, and instruments. This reduction in corrosion leads to lower maintenance costs and fewer replacements, providing significant long-term savings.

2. Improved Process Efficiency

Dry air ensures the smooth operation of pneumatic control systems and instruments, which are critical in oil and gas operation. Moisture can cause these systems to malfunction, leading to inefficiencies and potential shutdowns.

3. Reduced Downtime

One of the most significant benefits of dry air is reducing equipment failures due to corrosion and freezing. The translates to less downtime, allowing for continuous and reliable production. In an industry where every minute counts, minimizing downtime is crucial for maintaining productivity and meeting deadlines.

4. enhanced Product Quality

Moisture can lead to contamination issues, affecting the quality of the final products. Dry air helps prevent these issues, ensuring the products meet the required standards and specifications. This is particularly important in the oil and gas industry, where product quality directly impacts safety and compliance.

5. Safety

Safety is a paramount concern in the oil and gas industry. Moisture in compressed air systems can increase the risk of leaks and equipment failures, posing serious safety hazards. By using industrial air dryers to remove moisture, companies can create a safer work environment, protecting their workforce and equipment.

Industrial Air Dryers: Investing in Efficiency, Safety, and Compliance

Industrial air dryers play a critical role in ensuring the efficiency, safety, and quality of operations in the oil and gas industry. By removing moisture from compressed air systems, these devices help prevent corrosion, freezing, and contamination, all of which are detrimental to the industry. Compliance with Quad O guidelines further underscores the importance of using industrial air dryers to maintain high standards and reliable operations.

For oil and gas professionals, investing in industrial air dryers is not just a matter of convenience but a necessity for achieving optimal performance and safety. By implementing these systems, companies can enhance their equipment lifespan, improve process efficiency, reduce downtime, and ensure high-quality products, all while maintaining a safe working environment.

Select the Right Desiccant Air Dryer System for Your Operations

To learn more about how industrial air dryers can benefit your oil and gas operations and help you comply with Quad O guidelines, contact us today. Our experts are ready to assist you in selecting the right desiccant air dryer system for your needs, ensuring that your operations remain efficient, safe, and compliant.

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