ops #ecolab #bar #bartenders #barbacks
The bar glasswasher (Hobart or equivalent) is our cleanest machine. It runs all night and gets abused. The chemicals matter.
Chemicals
- Glass Solid (EcoLab detergent block) in the front-left reservoir
- Glass Rinse (EcoLab rinse aid) in the front-right reservoir
Both are sealed solid blocks. You don't pour anything. The reservoir punctures the block and dispenses metered amounts per cycle.
Daily check (open of shift)
- [ ] Lift the lid on each reservoir
- [ ] Verify a block is present and intact
- [ ] If a block is more than 75% dissolved, log it for replacement (next EcoLab visit) but it's fine to keep using
Daily check (close of shift)
- [ ] Empty the filter basket (lint, debris)
- [ ] Run a cleaning cycle empty (no dirty glassware)
- [ ] Wipe the interior with the towel hanging by the machine
- [ ] Crack the door to let it air-dry overnight
Weekly (Monday before service)
- [ ] Descale: remove the wash arms, soak in EcoLab descaler for 20 min, rinse, reinstall
- [ ] Check spray nozzles for clogs (toothpick if needed)
- [ ] Test the temperature gauge — wash cycle should peak at 150°F
Problems
- Glasses come out spotty → rinse aid reservoir empty or wash temp low
- Glasses come out cloudy → mineral buildup, descale time
- Cycle won't start → power, water line, or door switch — call EcoLab if not obvious
DOH note
The glasswasher uses HOT water sanitization (180°F final rinse). We do NOT need to verify sanitizer concentration on this machine. The thermometer matters: keep it accurate.