By Mackenna Moralez

Maintaining a hospital or other healthcare facility is a costly venture, but it’s something not worth compromising. The safety and integrity of the building should always be at the forefront of a facility manager’s mind, and no detail should be overlooked. One small feature, such as a hand dryer, can leave a lasting impact on a facility, especially when it comes to cost savings. Healthcare Facilities Today talks with hand dryer manufacturers on the way their products can help managers control costs. 

How do hand dryers play into cost savings within facilities? 

“The yearly financial and environmental cost of paper towels can be alarming. Healthcare facilities that make the switch from paper towels to high-speed, energy-efficient hand dryers can see cost savings as high as 95 percent. This is because hand dryers eliminate the need for constant maintenance and ongoing clean-up caused by paper towels, as they often clog toilets and make a mess of floors and sinks. Further, paper towel dispensers need to be routinely monitored for refills, drawing staff’s attention away from other tasks. 

Hand dryers are essential [to healthcare facilities] because they provide the combined benefits of hygiene, sustainability and cost savings. Not only do they provide a completely touchless experience, but they also help to lower a facility’s carbon footprint and bottom line.” 

— William Gagnon, vice president of marketing and sales, Excel Dryer 

“Paper savings is a consideration, but it not the full story. Facilities should also consider wattage and electricity cost, as well as dryer motor life. Many dryers will use excessive wattage and will need to be replaced repeatedly over the life of the building. Also, dryers that use filters will need replacing, which is often an expensive process.” 

— David Leigh, vice president of marketing, Bobrick Washroom Equipment 

Mackenna Moralez is the associate editor for the facilities market.