How Much Energy Can Hand Dryers Save?

Most business owners know that hand dryers are ecological, because they avert deforestation and eliminate disposable products or continuous replenishment, such as paper towels. There are certain costs associated with hand dryers, including maintenance, repairs, and energy. In this review, we will conduct an analysis in which you can calculate how much energy hand dryers save for your facility and your business.

According to an article written by Cindy Quarters for the Houston Chronicle, dryer efficiency and the cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity play large roles in the cost of operation. The average hand dryer uses approximately 0.03 kWh of electricity per use. Fuels, transmission, and weather conditions are just some of the influences on the cost of electricity. At an average cost of $0.01 per kWh, the monthly cost of operating an electric hand dryer averages to approximately $20. This affordable monthly cost amounts to a savings of more than $60 per month when compared to using paper towels. Although hand dryers are more expensive, you can recoup your total investment within several months.

An underlying outlier in an analysis of how much energy can hand dryers save is that the efficacy and economic feasibility is entirely dependent on the user. In a study conducted by Mayo Clinic Proceedings, results show that hot air dryers can take upwards of 45 seconds to reduce residual water while drying hands with paper towels can take between 10 and 15 seconds to achieve the same decrease. There is a new generation of hand dryers that boast shorter drying times and ecological efficiency up to 80 percent better than their precursors.

There are some drawbacks to paper towels that are less ostensible to the average consumer. Paper towels simply require more maintenance, resulting in increased facility management, labor, and cleaning costs. The increased need for cleaning bolsters the manufacturing need for chemicals and plastic bottles. Plastic bottles need to be disposed of, which reinforces the need for trash bags or liners.

According to our research into how much energy can hand dryers save, dryers use less energy than alternatives once everything is taken into account. If you have any questions about this article or would like assistance in finding the most energy-efficient solution for your public restrooms and facilities, please contact a member of the PandaProducts.com team today.