Picking the right payment system affects resident satisfaction, service calls, and your bottom line. Here’s a quick guide to help property managers compare coin-operated setups with modern cashless options like cards and mobile app pay.
Quick Comparison
- Coin-Op: Simple and familiar; may increase collections/coin jams and requires physical cash handling.
- Card/App Pay: Faster, trackable revenue and fewer jams; requires connectivity and a higher upfront device cost.
Explore your options on our Payment Systems page, or get a free quote and we’ll tailor recommendations to your building.
Coin-Operated Systems: Pros & Cons
Coin systems have been the standard for decades and still make sense in certain communities.
- Pros: Low learning curve for residents, no network needed, simple hardware.
- Cons: Coin shortages, jammed mechanisms, manual collections, limited pricing flexibility.
For straightforward setups, see our Apartment Laundry Machine Leasing and Commercial Laundry Machine Leasing programs.
Cashless Payments: Cards & Mobile App Pay
Card readers and mobile app payment systems improve convenience and visibility while reducing maintenance headaches.
- Pros: Fewer jams, remote revenue tracking, price flexibility (not just 25¢ steps), usage analytics, refunds without on-site visits.
- Cons: Requires connectivity and hardware; slightly higher upfront cost vs. coin-only.
See live options on our Payment Systems page, or browse machines on Our Equipment.
Which Fits Your Property?
Use this quick framework to choose:
- Resident Profile: Younger or tech-friendly residents appreciate app pay and cards; senior buildings may prefer familiar coin systems.
- Connectivity: If Wi-Fi or cellular signal is reliable, cashless is easier to support and track.
- Security & Staffing: If coin collection is a burden or security risk, go cashless.
- Pricing Strategy: Want dynamic pricing (e.g., off-peak discounts)? Choose card/app systems.
Hybrid Setups: The Best of Both
Many properties offer both coin and cashless to ease transitions and maximize adoption. Start with a few app/card-enabled machines while keeping some coin units available, then expand as usage grows.
We can help you stage upgrades over time. Get a free quote and we’ll map a phased plan for your property.
FAQs (Property Manager Edition)
- How do refunds work with app/card pay? Usually handled digitally—no on-site cash needed. See FAQs.
- What if the network goes down? Most systems store transactions and sync later; we’ll recommend the right setup for your connectivity.
- Can I mix coin and card on the same floor? Yes—hybrids are common and help residents transition smoothly.
Next Steps
Whether you’re upgrading from coin or launching a new laundry room, we’ll handle equipment, install, and ongoing service. Explore Apartment Laundry Leasing, compare Payment Systems, or get a free quote to see what fits your building.
Need help fast? Submit a repair request and our local technicians will respond quickly.
