For how long should the air-drying step last in mechanical dishwashers?

The correct duration for the air-drying step in mechanical dishwashers is generally around 45 seconds. This timeframe allows adequate time for moisture evaporation from the surfaces of dishes and utensils, which is critical for ensuring that items emerge clean and dry, reducing the risk of microbial growth.

An insufficient air-drying time can lead to the retention of water droplets, which can harbor bacteria, while an excessively long drying time may waste energy and extend the washing process unnecessarily. Using 45 seconds strikes a balance between effective drying and efficiency, making it the optimum choice in commercial dishwashing settings.

Other durations, such as 20, 30, or 60 seconds, may not provide the same benefits, as they could either be too short to ensure thorough drying or longer than necessary, leading to inefficiencies.