The following specification and features are recommended when selecting an optimum, operating, hands-free finish/stand dryer that provides the most versatility through precise control of air drying, heat, air volume, and air speed to complete the overall dry cycle leading to the finish procedures of combing, brushing, scissoring, and clipping for a “best in show” out-the-door look. The Salon Equipment Evaluation Standards (SEES) are as follows:

1. Finish dryers are primarily used on longer, denser, and more complex coat types and the necessity of producing a mostly dry coat to the optimal condition for the final grooming steps, evenly over the entire coat at the exact time are is its primary mission.
2. Select a finish dryer that has precise control of air heat, air speed, and air volume in sufficient amounts that will allow the groomer to use both hands in the final drying sequence, free for combing and brushing. Optimum would be a variable temperature control from room temperature to higher temperatures that is considered appropriate. UL and/or international certification can generally be relied on to identify maximum temperature output compliance and will ensure manufacturer liability responsibilities.
3. Variable air speed and air volume control is highly desirable since animal coats not only vary in densities by breed but also where on the animal body the coat is located, making ruffs and feathering areas most challenging. Unit air control must be achieved through motor speed control, not just by blocking airflow which can lead to greater motor wear and reduce service life. Large diameter dryer nozzles on the end of the dryer arm should be about 2-3 inches wide to allow for full, unhindered air volume to penetrate the coat and along with excellent air speed control, will allow your groomer plenty of working room allowing optimum separation between nozzle output and the animal’s coat for removal of remaining visual, skin-level mats.
4. The output nozzle needs to be rotatable 360° and capable of staying in place once adjusted and should be composed of a rubberlike material to provide heat protection for the operator.
5. The finish dryer motor should be either an induction or direct current (DC) type. Neither motor uses carbon brushes nor spews carbon dust onto the newly-washed animal coat nor into the salon’s air, which in itself will produce greater health risks for all. The preferred motor is the DC type, as it is the quietest, most efficient, most powerful, and most durable, using far less electricity while providing precise air control and is currently available in the grooming market.
6. Choose a finish dryer with a stand that is most suitable for the busy and sometimes frenzied activity you’d expect to face in your grooming location. Older style finish dryers were excessively heavy. Their motors were either of the brush or induction motor type with metal and cast metal chassis which made them quite top heavy and easy to tip over. Finish dryers with DC motors have their chassis constructed with polypropylene, polyethylene, and styrene materials which make them much lighter and far less likely to tip.
7. Choose a metal stand with a wide, stable base, lockable wheels, and with a spring-loaded, non-hydraulic vertical adjustment for height feature that does not slip or move unless initiated by a manual control.
8. Select a finish dryer which on its stand allows the extension tube or arm with the rotating nozzle that is not only movable up and down but also stays securely in place when set. Adjusting both arm and output nozzle to an exact position without slippage increases not only drying efficiency but also significantly reduces drying time and groomers’ frustration.
9. Choose a stand dryer that has an easy-access filter or filter set that is removable easily for cleaning and capable of being rinsed with clean water. Due to the amount of brushing, clipping, scissoring, plus combing conducted at the finishing table, fine hair and dander will readily collect onto the finish dryer’s filters, making it a must for operators to routinely check and clean dryer filters. Easy access and easy-clean capability of dryers is a must.

Till Next Time,
The Professor