Choosing the Right Industrial Dryers for Laundromats and OPL Environments

Selecting the right industrial dryers is a critical decision for laundromats and on-premise laundry (OPL) operations. The dryer you choose directly impacts cycle time, energy usage, fabric quality, labor efficiency, and overall operating costs.

Unlike standard commercial units, an industrial drying machine is engineered to handle higher volumes, heavier loads, and continuous daily use. For facility managers, business owners, and operations teams, understanding how industrial dryers work—and what features matter most—can make the difference between a smooth, cost-effective operation and ongoing maintenance headaches.

This guide breaks down what industrial dryers are, how they differ from standard commercial dryers, and the key performance factors to consider when choosing the right industrial dryer for your facility.

What Are Industrial Dryers?

Industrial dryers are heavy-duty laundry machines designed for high-volume, continuous operation. They are commonly used in:

·      Laundromats with high customer traffic

·      Hotels and resorts

·      Healthcare and long-term care facilities

·      Animal care centers

·      Correctional facilities

·      Industrial and manufacturing plants

These machines are built to process large loads efficiently while maintaining consistent drying results, even under demanding conditions.

Industrial Dryers vs Standard Commercial Dryers

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, industrial dryers differ from standard commercial units in several key ways:

Feature	Industrial Dryers	Standard Commercial Dryers
Build Quality & Durability	Reinforced steel construction, industrial-grade components, and high-capacity bearings designed for nonstop operation.	Designed for moderate daily use with lighter construction and fewer heavy-duty components.
Load Capacity	Handles larger loads, reducing the number of cycles needed per day and increasing overall throughput.	Smaller capacities, better suited for lower-volume operations.
Heat & Airflow Control	Advanced airflow systems ensure even drying and faster moisture removal.	Less powerful airflow, which may increase drying times.
Longevity	Built for years of continuous use with proper maintenance.	Shorter lifespan in high-demand environments.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Industrial Drying Machine

Choosing the right industrial dryer involves more than just size and price. The following performance factors should guide your decision.

Capacity & Throughput

Match dryer capacity to washer output. Undersized dryers create bottlenecks, while oversized units may waste energy. High-volume operations benefit from larger drums that reduce total cycles per day.

Heat Source Options

Industrial dryers are available in:

·      Gas: Faster heat-up times and lower operating costs in many regions

·      Electric: Ideal where gas is unavailable

·      Steam: Common in large institutional facilities

Your utility access and energy costs should influence this choice.

Airflow & Moisture Removal

Efficient airflow shortens drying time and improves fabric quality. Look for dryers designed with optimized airflow paths and powerful exhaust systems.

Control Systems & Programmability

Modern industrial dryers feature programmable controls that allow operators to:

·      Adjust temperature by fabric type

·      Set cycle times

·      Reduce over-drying and fabric damage

Energy Efficiency

High-efficiency industrial dryers reduce gas or electricity consumption while maintaining performance. Over time, energy-efficient models can significantly lower operating costs.

Ease of Maintenance

Accessible lint screens, simple belt systems, and service-friendly designs reduce downtime and maintenance expenses.

Leading Industrial Dryer Brands

Several manufacturers are recognized for producing reliable, high-performance industrial dryers:

·      Continental Girbau: Known for durable construction, advanced controls, and energy efficiency

·      UniMac: Offers industrial-grade dryers with high airflow and long service life

·      Electrolux Professional: Focuses on sustainability, efficiency, and precision drying

·      Speed Queen Commercial: Trusted for rugged reliability and straightforward operation

Each brand offers models suited for different facility sizes and operational demands.

Best Applications for Industrial Dryers

Industrial dryers are ideal for operations that require:

·      High daily laundry volume

·      Short turnaround times

·      Consistent drying performance

·      Long equipment lifespan

They are commonly found in laundromats, hotels, healthcare facilities, animal care centers, and industrial workplaces where downtime is not an option.

Why Choose Automated Laundry Systems?

For nearly five decades, Automated Laundry Systems has been a trusted provider of commercial and industrial laundry solutions across Southern California. With deep industry knowledge and access to leading equipment brands, ALS helps businesses select the right industrial dryers based on volume, facility layout, and operational goals.

Beyond equipment sales, Automated Laundry Systems offers:

·      Professional equipment consultation

·      Expert installation

·      Preventive maintenance programs

·      Factory-trained service technicians

·      OEM replacement parts

This end-to-end support ensures your industrial drying machines operate at peak efficiency throughout their lifespan.

Find the Right Industrial Dryer for Your Facility

Choosing the right industrial dryer is an investment in efficiency, reliability, and long-term cost control. The ideal solution balances capacity, energy usage, durability, and ease of maintenance while supporting your daily laundry demands.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Our experts will help you select the right industrial dryers for your laundromat or OPL operation—and ensure your laundry facility runs at its best, day after day.

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​Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right industrial dryer size for my laundromat or OPL facility?

The right dryer size depends on your washer output, daily laundry volume, and available space. Our team evaluates your operation to ensure dryer capacity matches your washer load, preventing bottlenecks and unnecessary energy waste.

Are gas or electric industrial dryers more cost-effective in Southern California?

In most cases, gas industrial dryers offer lower long-term operating costs due to faster heat-up times and reduced energy usage. However, electric dryers may be the best option where gas is unavailable or restricted.

Can industrial dryers handle specialty loads like pet bedding or healthcare linens?

Yes. Industrial dryers are designed for heavy-duty loads, including bulky pet bedding, medical linens, and industrial workwear. Advanced airflow systems ensure even drying without damaging sensitive fabrics.

How often do industrial dryers require maintenance?

With proper use, industrial dryers should receive preventive maintenance every 6 to 12 months. This includes lint system inspections, belt checks, and airflow assessments to maintain performance and prevent downtime.

Do you provide installation and service for industrial dryers in Los Angeles and Orange County?

Yes. Automated Laundry Systems provides professional installation, preventive maintenance, and repair services throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, and surrounding Southern California areas using factory-trained technicians and OEM parts.