How to Buy Commercial Kitchen Equipment

 Buying commercial kitchen equipment can be an expensive affair. There are many things to consider, including maintenance, cleaning, and the long-term costs.

Buying New Versus Used

Buying commercial kitchen equipment new versus used can be a difficult decision. Of course, a new piece of equipment will likely be a better choice, but it can sometimes be more challenging than it sounds. Whether you're looking for equipment to outfit your restaurant or you're interested in buying a new kitchen appliance to use in your own home, you'll want to ensure that you get the best deal possible.

The best way to determine which new kitchen appliance is right for you is to conduct thorough research and consider what you're looking for. You'll also want to consider the equipment's maintenance and operational lifespan. You want to avoid ending up with equipment that will break down on you in a month. The adage that the best way to find a good deal is to buy used is often true. There are many places to shop for used restaurant equipment. You can look online, or you can even visit a brick-and-mortar store.

Materials to Choose from for Shelving and Storage

Choosing materials for shelving and storage in commercial kitchen equipment is essential. Each type of material has its benefits and disadvantages. It's also important to consider how you plan to use the shelves. The kind of environment you'll be working in can determine the lifespan of your shelving.

Stainless steel is one of the most durable shelving materials. It is corrosion-resistant, easy to clean, and can be used in wet or dry environments. This is ideal for the storage of food and other sensitive items. It is also durable enough for heavy-use applications. Aluminium is a lightweight metal that can store sensitive electronic items. It can also be sterilized. It's also odourless, non-magnetic, and impervious to moisture. However, aluminium is less resistant to corrosion than stainless steel.

Chrome is a cost-effective, durable metal. It's ideal for use in retail environments and food service industries. However, chrome is prone to rusting in humid conditions. The material you choose should match your environment. Consider how much mobility the shelving will provide. A metal shelf can be more durable than a wooden one. A metal shelf will also allow for more airflow, keeping food fresher for longer.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Keeping a commercial kitchen clean is essential to running a food service business. Failure to do so can result in a costly catastrophe. Not only does maintaining equipment reduce the risk of fires and breakdowns, but it also protects your employees' health and safety. Commercial kitchens contain a wide variety of equipment, many of which use water. Therefore, it is essential to keep these items clean to prevent bacteria buildup and leaks. If you are unfamiliar with the parts and functions of certain pieces of equipment, it is recommended that you ask a qualified technician to perform the necessary maintenance.

For example, you will want to clean the burners, hoods, and drain pans after every use. Cleaning the vent ducts is also essential, as these collect a lot of food debris. Using commercial degreasers can be an inexpensive way to keep your kitchen clean. They can also extend the life of your kitchen equipment. A commercial kitchen maintenance checklist can help you keep up with all your maintenance needs. Some items to look for include cleaning the exhaust ducts, the water inlet and distribution lines, and the defrost timers on your commercial freezers.

Long-Term Cost

Purchasing and maintaining commercial kitchen equipment is an investment. You want to ensure you have the best equipment possible to help you serve your customers. You also want to ensure that you buy reliable, energy-efficient equipment and a long lifespan.

Before buying any equipment, make sure to consider your budget. Equipment can range in price from inexpensive to very expensive. Therefore, knowing what type of kitchen equipment you need and how much it will cost you is essential. In addition, you want to check the Energy Star rating on the equipment.

Equipment needs to be cleaned regularly. Dirty equipment can damage food quality and make it difficult to serve customers. You also want to check that your air systems are working properly. Clogged air systems can cause malfunctions in your kitchen equipment.