The Machflow Hand Dryer Review

The Machflow hand dryer is another one of the new generation of high speed, energy efficient hand dryers to hit the market, so how does it compare with the array of other options?

First of all lets compare the Machflow within its category, the compact, hands under type. We have already established that blade, hands in hand dryers such as the D-flow, Dyson Airblade and Mitsubishi Electric Jet Towel produce the most effective and consistent performance. However the size of blade hand dryers makes them unsuitable for all locations and they are considerably more expensive, so how does the Machflow compare with like for like?

Machflow dry speed

Unfortunately we are yet to test the Machflow under controlled, independent test conditions, however we have used the product and have also compared the hand dryer specification in detail.

The Machflow hand dryer has an adjustable motor with a RPM range from 19000 to 30000 rpm. The RPM is not necessarily an indicator of the drying capabilities as the actual airflow design and hand coverage can be more of a determining factor. Higher RPM motors give off more residual heat which is useful in the absence of a heater element to make the drying experience more comfortable.

We found the performance of the Machflow hand dryer to be comparable with the likes of the Xlerator, The G-Force and Turboforce on the maximum setting and it remained a good, if not outstanding hand dryer even at the ultra low 0.42kw setting. We were pleasantly surprised about this as the SMARTdri for example became very ineffective on the low energy setting.

The 201 mph air speed and 187 m3/h/3117 l/min suggests that the Machflow has sufficient power, the xlerator for example has an airspeed of 216 mph, The Turboforce 225 mph and the air force produced was similar. The Air outlet is the same shape as the Xlerator which we have found reduces the consistency of the drying performance a little as the airflow is concentrated on a very limited area of the hands. We would describe the hand drying performance as among the better high speed hand dryers but not a step forward by any means.

Percieved Noise levels of the Machflow

The specification states 68 to 75 dBA at 2 metres whcih makes it difficult to compare, as this reading is usually taken from 1 metre. The perception on the TURBO setting was that the Machflow was quieter than the Xlerator and the Turboforce but a little louder than the G-Force Turbo. The adjustable motor did reduce the sound level considerably which makes the Machflow versatile and gives confidence to design professionals that the hand dryer can be adapted to the environment at a later point. The Machflow has 8 silence blocks to cushio vibrations against the wall and therefore reduce in situe noise levels.

Energy Efficiency of the Machflow

We cannot be 100% about the comparative energy efficiency until we have subjected the Machflow to controlled testing, however at a rated power of just 0.42kw the Machflow remains reasonably effecitive so there is no doubt this will be among the lowest energy consuming hand dryers available. Comparable with the New Xlerator 500, The Turboforce MARK II and G-Force eco 550.

Hand Hygiene

The Machflow hand dryer has no special innovations in this area but its effectiveness and the absence of a heating element will ensure decent levels, if not clinical standards of hygiene.

Vandal Resistance

The Machflow hand dryer has a solid steel, slimline cover and there are no easy grip points so the Machflow scores highly from a vandal resistance perspective.

Summary

We like the Machflow hand dryer, it performs well, is versatile where noise is an issue, has excellent energy efficiency and looks great particularly in the brushed stainless finish. The build quality is good and we have no hesitation in recommending it, even though there are probably slightly better value options out there.

To compare the Machflow hand dryer against other options click here