Choosing the ideal laundry payment system for your property can be challenging. With various options like card-based and mobile app-based methods, each comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks, some of which might not be obvious to most property owners. Automatic Laundry provides advanced, easy-to-use solutions, including the Laundry Connect™ PAY system and the Resident Advantage® system. In this blog post, we’ll explore the details of both systems, their pros and cons, and help you determine which one is the best fit for your properties.
Laundry Connect™PAY and App Technology
According to an article from Planet Laundry, multiple laundromats across the country are switching over to mobile payment methods in an attempt to keep up with the times. Automatic Laundry is no different, as app-based payment is a possible implementation for your property. Here are some pros and cons for our app-based technology, focusing on efficiency, security, and usability.
Pros of Laundry Connect™PAY
- Efficiency and Convenience: Not only does contactless payment allow residents to simply scan a QR code to start their machine, but it also allows them to plan their chore routines more efficiently. Because of LaundryConnect™ remote access technology, users can see which machines are available in their laundry room and use text notifications to signal when a machine has opened up for use.
- Security and Data Protection: With the app, users don’t have to worry about losing access to their credit card information or risking their data being stolen. Using Automatic Laundry’s PCI-certified transaction host, all app purchases are encrypted, providing an extra layer of security. Read more about the app’s safety features and functionality on the app information page.
- Bluetooth Functionality: App users have the ability to still do their laundry sans a wi-fi connection, as Automatic Laundry machines utilize a Bluetooth connection to access payment.
Cons of Laundry Connect™PAY
- User Accessibility: Card-based systems are familiar, tactile, and easier for most residents to use. In contrast, app-based systems may require updates and a learning curve, which can be a barrier for less tech-savvy users.
- Bluetooth Dependency: While Laundry Connect™PAY doesn’t rely on Wi-Fi, it does require a Bluetooth connection. If that connection is interrupted, residents may be unable to start their machines, potentially causing inconvenience.
Is Laundry Connect™PAY Right for Your Property?
Selecting an app-based laundry payment system might be the right choice for your property based on your resident demographics. If your residents prefer mobile app payment and contactless payment to using physical cards or kiosks, Laundry Connect™PAY might be the correct path for your property.
Resident Advantage® and Card-Based Laundry Payment Systems
Card-based systems for laundry are a tried and tested method for payment. Cards are easy to use, light to carry, and easily refillable as well. Here are some pros and cons of our card-based system, focusing on ease of use, revenue statement generation, and security.
Pros of Resident Advantage®
- Accessibility and Ease of Use: Adding value to these cards is easy and promotes on-site laundering. There are multiple ways to add value to a card, from using a 3-Way Add Value Kiosk to online code purchasing. Based on the type of card residents receive, Automatic Laundry provides several options when it comes to adding value to a card. Whether a resident has access to a credit card or prefers to pay in cash or check, they will be able to see and update their balance with ease.
- Accountability and Tracking: Many pieces of equipment that Automatic Laundry uses feature an automated auditing system. Automatic Laundry ensures that the Add Value Terminals are equipped with auditing systems to track revenue. It has become simpler than ever to provide commission payments to clients via Direct Deposit or deliver in-depth statements. Read our services page to learn more about these different types of services.
Cons of Resident Advantage®
- Loss Prevention: One drawback of card-based systems is the risk of loss or theft. If a card is misplaced or stolen, the stored value must be repurchased. This can be frustrating for residents seeking a more secure way to manage their laundry credit. Although the card only works with Automatic Laundry machines, there’s no built-in safeguard against lost funds or unauthorized use.
- Fund Access: When moving out, residents must mail in their card to receive a refund, which can take time. In contrast, the app allows for faster refunds by simply contacting customer service.
Is Resident Advantage® Right for Your Property?
Keeping the demographics and preferences of your residents in mind, Automatic Laundry’s card-based laundry payment system might be the best option. If your residents prefer tactile payment cards and kiosks, and if you prefer a more robust and sophisticated revenue tracking system, Resident Advantage® might be the choice for your property.
Conclusion
App-based and card-based laundry payment systems each offer unique advantages. After reviewing both options, you can now better determine which system aligns with your property’s needs. If your residents value efficiency, convenience, and enhanced data security, the Laundry Connect™PAY app may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if your community prefers tactile payment options and you want a reliable way to track revenue, the Resident Advantage® card system could be the better fit. Ready to get started? Contact Automatic Laundry today to find the best solution for your property and your residents.
