Energy-Efficient Hand Dryers
New models offer more choices to optimize performance in restrooms of all sizes
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Sponsored by World Dryer
- Temperature controls: Similar to speed control, air temperature control during operation is desirable for comfort and energy efficiency. During cold weather, heated air in hand dryers is usually welcome, although it may contribute to dry skin. In warm weather times, the heat may not be needed or welcome. In that case, having the ability to switch off the heat altogether is advantageous to everyone while reducing energy use further.
- Single- or multiple-opening nozzle: Many manufacturers offer units that have multiple port nozzles that will spread air across a wider hand drying area than a single port nozzle. This may be more comfortable for users since it more evenly disperses the air across hands, but it also affects the drying speed and velocity of the air. Hence, different models that use these different technologies should be compared appropriately.
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Multi-port hand dryers (left) have more openings to evenly disperse air across a larger area onto hands compared to single-port hand dryers (right). Photo courtesy of World Dryer, Inc. |
- Sound quality and level: The higher the speed of the air, the louder the sound generated. In areas where noise control is needed, then either an adjustable setting should be specified or a unit needs to be selected that falls within the acceptable sound range. The alternative, of course, is to address the sound control qualities of the restroom itself to contain any noise within and not transmit it to adjacent spaces.
- Voltage requirements: Manufacturers offer hand dryers with a range of standard voltages including some models that can operate at universal voltage. Common voltage designations of 110/120V, 208/240V and 220/240V are available with decreasing amperage requirements naturally as voltage increases.
- Handicapped accessibility standards compliance: There are a variety of surface mount and recessed units that are available that meet ADA and ANSI 117 handicapped accessibility requirements. Surface mount models with a slim profile are specifically available from some manufacturers that meet these requirements while saving on the cost and labor associated with recessing the units into a wall. The performance factors of some of these units should be scrutinized, however, since not all manufacturers use the latest high speed energy efficiency technology. In some cases, the best solution is to specify a standard high speed unit that is installed in a recessed enclosure, often available from manufacturers.
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Typical surface mount hand dryers with a slim profile to meet handicapped accessibility standards eliminate the need for a recess kit and save on labor and installation costs. Image courtesy of World Dryer, Inc. |
- Water ingress resistance (IP ratings): If the restroom is prone to use water spray or other high intensity cleaning, then these ratings become very important for safety and durability of the hand dryers. It will also help protect the inner, working elements of the unit and help improve longevity as a result.
- Life expectancy and durability: The overall unit needs to be specified to meet particular levels of durability and corrosion resistance to suit the restroom setting. Of particular note is the motor which is the operational part and commonly rated to a certain level of uses or hours of operation. Some manufacturers provide notably longer lasting, more durable motors than others, so it is worthwhile to compare.
- Serviceability: If a unit needs to be repaired rather than replaced, selecting one that can be easily serviced could make a difference not only in terms of operations, but in terms of overall sustainability and longevity.
- Warranty: As with all manufactured products, warranties on high-speed energy-efficient hand dryers vary, so they should be looked at carefully. Some carry warranties in excess of 5 or 10 years indicating their overall long life expectancy.
- Finish options: In the days of traditional hand dryers color choices were somewhat limited. The current generation of products offers painted cast aluminum or steel options that commonly include white or black. In addition, metal finishes are available in both polished and brushed chrome or stainless steel.
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High-speed energy-efficient hand dryers are available in a range of colors and metal finishes including white, black, brushed metal, and polished metal. Photo courtesy of World Dryer, Inc. |
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Originally published in January 2014
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