Do I need a drain pump in a commercial dishwasher and what is a gravity drain?

Whether a commercial dishwasher requires a drain pump depends on the specific model and installation requirements.

In some cases, a drain pump is necessary to properly remove wastewater from the dishwasher. A drain pump helps to pump out the water against gravity or overcome any height differences between the dishwasher and the drain point.

On the other hand, a gravity drain relies solely on the force of gravity to remove wastewater from the dishwasher. It requires that the dishwasher be installed at a lower level than the drain point. When the dishwasher's drain valve opens, gravity pulls the water down and out through the drain line.

Both drain pump and gravity drain systems have their advantages and considerations. A drain pump can be beneficial when the dishwasher needs to be installed at a higher level than the drain point or when the drain line has to cover a long horizontal distance. It provides flexibility in terms of installation options. However, drain pumps may require maintenance and can be prone to failure.

A gravity drain, on the other hand, is a simpler and more reliable system since it doesn't involve any mechanical components like a pump. It can be a cost-effective solution for installations where the dishwasher can be placed higher than the drain point.

When considering a commercial dishwasher, it's important to review the manufacturer's specifications, installation guidelines, and local plumbing codes to determine whether a drain pump is required or if a gravity drain is suitable for your specific situation.