With so many options for automatic soap dispensers on the market today, it can be tough to find the right one for your needs. Whether the dispenser is for home use, a busy restaurant, or a medical office, there are some things you should consider that are sure to be relevant to your needs before selecting a dispenser. Here’s a brief guide to help you along in making an informed choice.
Sensor Sensitivity is very important. A reliable dispenser will have quick activation time (within 0.2-0.5 secs.) and operability even in the instances of wet hands or where good dispensing distance can be secured (generally in the neighbourhood of 2-4”). Avoid the models having time delay in the triggering, or false triggering, as this causes user frustration and waste in soap. Capacity and Refilability are of great importance in busy traffic locations. For homes, the 200-300ml will be the size required, but for commercial use, machines with a capacity of from 500ml to larger sizes of tanks will be required to relieve frequent renewing of capacity. These dispensers should be those with a wide opening giving the simplest possibilities for refilling, but sometimes we have seen dispensers that have transparent reservoirs allowing the operator to see the soap supply at a glance.
Power Source is another consideration. Battery-operated models give you some flexibility of localization (no need for an outlet nearby) and typically will last 6 to 12 months with AA or AAA batteries. Plug-in dispensers will not be as easy to relocate but are ideal for permanent installations and relieve you from the bother of changing batteries.
Durability and Material are of great concern if you want the dispenser to last. Stainless steel dispensers are resistant to rusting or corroding and are well-suited for humid conditions such as those in bathrooms and kitchens. Plastic models are light and inexpensive but are probably not as sturdy. With plastic models it is best to get ones that are shatterproof or BPA-free.
Soap Compatibility should not be overlooked. Most dispensers will work with liquid soap, but you should check for compatibility if you intend to use a foaming soap or hand sanitizer. Some models are adjustable for dosage levels so that you can control the amount of soap that will be dispensed each time. Design and Aesthetics may be factors in your choice. Perhaps you will want a model that blends in with the rest of your decors. You will want to pick out models with metal finishes in moderns or with the classic clean white finishes of the minimalist look. Wall mounted types will save countertop space but will not be as portable as the countertop types.
By carefully examining these points, you will be able to note which automatic soap dispensers will fit your taste in performance or convenience or aesthetic quality to give you good hygiene for a long time to come.