Using computers to check if washers and dryers are free

A computerised laundry system that can check if washers and dryers are free for use is now available to students.

York University has become the first in the UK to use the Circuit eSuds system, which also enables students to pay for their wash and dry cycles electronically.

The system has been installed by Circuit, the market leader for fully managed laundries in universities, key worker accommodation, housing associations and leisure sites.

The Circuit director responsible for the project, Malcolm Brooke says: ‘Our goal is to ensure we provide our customers with the best possible solutions and make our laundry facilities more efficient, cost effective and safer. The Circuit eSuds system offers all that while responding to the emerging demand for networked laundry services.’

Jon Greenwood, director of commercial services at the University of York, says: ‘We are pleased to be the first to bring the Circuit eSuds system to our student body. We understand that students enjoy using the technology and it’s appropriate for the networked world students live in.’

Erik O’Connor (pictured above), chair of the Junior Common Room of the university’s Alcuin College, says: ‘We are very encouraged that Circuit have adapted so well to their target audience. The system is extremely useful to students because it saves time – we can now check machine availability from our rooms while we are working instead of walking all the way to the laundry.

‘Almost as soon as the system went live, I received an email from another student who had just used it. She said, “Whoever thought of this is brilliant!” ’

The system has been developed by Pennsylvania-based USA Technologies and is now being used by 40 universities and colleges throughout the United States.

Stephen P Herbert, president and chief operating officer of the company, says: ‘Distributing our eSuds product line through one of the major laundry service companies in the United Kingdom is a landmark development for us.’

For more information, email info@circuitgroup.com or call 0800 032 0070.