# What is the difference between an undercounter, door-type and conveyor dishwasher?

Quick answer by Norpex (Sinks, dishwashing & sanitation). Updated 2026-09-25.
Canonical: https://norpex.ca/answers/undercounter-vs-door-type-vs-conveyor-dishwasher

They differ by volume and footprint. An undercounter dishwasher loads from the front and fits under a counter, suiting cafes and bars. A door-type machine sits between dish tables and takes racks through a lifting door, suiting many full-service restaurants. A conveyor machine pulls racks through continuously, for high-volume kitchens and institutions.

## Details

Each step up handles more racks per hour and needs more floor space, water, power and ventilation. Match the machine to your busiest service, not an average day, because a dish room that falls behind soon leaves the line short of plates.

Door-type and conveyor machines are built into a dish room layout, with a soiled table and pre-rinse sink on one side and a clean table on the other. Undercounter units need no tables but are loaded and unloaded one rack at a time.

Bars often use an undercounter glass washer, a smaller machine with racks sized for glassware.

## Read more

- [Commercial Dishwasher Buying Guide: Undercounter, Door-Type or Conveyor](https://norpex.ca/guides/commercial-dishwasher-buying-guide)
- [Restaurant Equipment Checklist: What to Buy to Open in Canada](https://norpex.ca/guides/restaurant-equipment-checklist)

## Shop the catalogue

- [Dishwashers](https://norpex.ca/products/dishwashers)
- [Undercounter Dishwasher](https://norpex.ca/products/undercounter-dishwasher)
- [Dish Tables](https://norpex.ca/products/dish-tables)
- [Warewashing Racks](https://norpex.ca/products/warewashing-racks)