Double basket…Shh!
A major kitchen refurbishment at a leading London independent school, which serves around 1,200 pupils, has been enhanced by the installation of Meiko’s M-iClean HXL automated hood dishwasher.
A smarter solution for a busy school kitchen
A major kitchen refurbishment at a leading London independent school, which serves around 1,200 pupils, has been enhanced by the installation of Meiko’s M-iClean HXL automated hood dishwasher.
Designed to maximise productivity while reducing physical effort, the M-iClean HXL features a double hood with space for two racks beneath the machine at once. Its generous 505 mm entry height enables it to accommodate everything from glasses, cutlery, bowls and plates to large pots, pans and baking trays, making it equally suited to front- and back-of-house warewashing.
Automation that saves time and reduces strain
One of the HXL’s standout features is its fully automated hood, which opens and closes smoothly and quietly without operator effort. At the end of each wash cycle, the hood lifts automatically, allowing staff to unload the clean rack immediately, before closing again when the next rack is pushed into position or the control button is pressed.
High capacity with quieter operation
Despite its high-capacity performance, the HXL operates at just 67 dB, creating a quieter, more comfortable working environment. This is significantly below the government’s recommended workplace action level of 80 dB for noise exposure.
The automatic hood delivers real operational benefits,” says Meiko Regional Sales Manager Mark Grieveson. “By removing the need for staff to repeatedly lift and lower a heavy hood throughout the day, we estimate operators can save around 40 minutes of labour per shift… and in many kitchens, the saving is even greater.
“It also reduces the physical strain associated with traditional hood-type dishwashers, making the machine more comfortable to use for staff of all ages and physical abilities. Because the lifting is fully automated, almost anyone can operate the machine with minimal effort – simply load and unload the racks.”
Lower energy costs through heat recovery
The M-iClean HXL also helps reduce operating costs through an advanced heat recovery system that captures energy from wastewater to preheat incoming cold water. This improves energy efficiency without extending wash cycle times, helping operators lower utility costs while maintaining high throughput.
“In some installations, the energy savings are so significant that customers see the return on their investment within the first year,” adds Grieveson.
By combining automation, energy efficiency and operator comfort, the M-iClean HXL is helping the school future-proof its kitchen with a warewashing solution built for performance, productivity and sustainability.
