High traffic environments, such as shopping centres, airports, schools and stadiums, demand everything from hand dryers. They need to be robust, powerful, reliable and resilient. So you can see why choosing the right hand dryer is crucial. The wrong hand dryer will create traffic build up, be inconsistent, be prone to damage and more often than not simply won’t dry hands properly. In this post we’re going to be looking at our top 5 hand dryers for high traffic environments.
A note on motor type
When choosing a hand dryer for high-traffic areas, the type of motor it uses plays a crucial role in long-term performance and reliability. Brushed motors, while typically more affordable, rely on physical brushes to transfer electrical current, which causes wear over time and results in higher maintenance needs and shorter lifespans. In contrast, brushless motors operate using electronic commutation, eliminating friction and significantly reducing mechanical wear. This makes brushless motors not only more energy-efficient and quieter, but also far more durable—an essential quality in environments where the dryer will be used hundreds of times per day. For this reason, brushless motor technology is the preferred choice in busy settings such as airports, schools, and public venues, where consistent performance and reduced downtime are vital.
Top 5 high traffic hand dryers
Dyson Airblade 9kJ
- Motor Type: Brushless digital motor V4
- Air Speed: 388mph
- Dry Time: 10–15 seconds
- Power Modes: Eco (650W) and Max (900W)
- Hygiene Features: HEPA filter capturing 99.95% of particles
- Certifications: HACCP, NSF, Carbon Trust, Quiet Mark
The Dyson Airblade 9kJ is engineered for high-efficiency performance in busy washrooms. Its dual power modes allow for energy savings without compromising on speed, making it ideal for both high-traffic and energy-conscious environments. The inclusion of a HEPA filter ensures hygienic drying by removing 99.95% of bacteria and viruses from the air.
Dryflow Elite MK II
- Motor Type: Brushless motor
- Air Speed: 60mph
- Dry Time: Approximately 15-20 seconds
- Power Consumption: 1kW
- Noise Level: Low noise operation
- Additional Features: Slimline design, carbon neutral, suitable for high-traffic areas
The Dryflow Elite MK 2 combines energy efficiency with rapid drying times, making it ideal for environments like airports and service stations where quick turnover is essential.
Mediclinics Dualflow M14A
- Motor Type: Brushless motor
- Air Speed: 255mph
- Dry Time: Approximately 10–15 seconds
- Power Consumption: 420–1,500 W (adjustable)
- Noise Level: Adjustable, low noise operation
- Hygiene Features: HEPA filter, antimicrobial tank
- Additional Features: Hands-in design, water collection system
The Mediclinics Dualflow Plus M14A offers a hands-in drying experience, reducing water on the floor and enhancing hygiene, which is particularly beneficial in leisure centres and busy public restrooms.
English
Xlerator XL-BW-ECO
- Motor Type: Brushless motor
- Dry Time: Approximately 10–15 seconds
- Power Consumption: 500 W
- Noise Level: Moderate
- Hygiene Features: Antimicrobial wall guard (optional)
- Additional Features: Eco-friendly, no heat element, energy-efficient
The Xlerator XL-BW-ECO is designed for high efficiency and sustainability, making it suitable for railway stations and other high-traffic areas aiming to reduce energy consumption.
Mitsubishi SMART Wave u02
- Motor Type: Brushless motor
- Air Speed: 353mph
- Dry Time: Approximately 10–15 seconds
- Power Consumption: 0.49kW to 0.98kW (adjustable)
- Noise Level: Low
- Hygiene Features: HEPA filter, antimicrobial resin
- Additional Features: CE accreditation, NSF Approved, adjustable temperature setting
The Wave u02 is a premium performance, hands-under hand dryer. Its compact and stylish form belies the incredibly powerful, energy efficient, quiet and responsive nature of these dryers. It's the perfect choice where space is restricted.
Selecting the right hand dryer for high-traffic areas involves balancing speed, energy efficiency, hygiene, and durability. The models listed above offer a range of features to meet these needs, ensuring that facilities can maintain cleanliness and user satisfaction even during peak usage times. You can see our complete range of hand dryers perfect for high-traffic environments here.
At Handryers UK we offer free next day delivery on orders over £50, 90 day returns and an industry leading price match policy. For any further help simply call us on 0114 322 3663 or contact us here.
