7 Essential Factors to Keep in Mind When Choosing Commercial Kitchen Equipment
Choosing the right equipment for your commercial kitchen can be challenging. This is especially the case if you’re doing it for the first time. This process involves extensive planning and differentiating between must-haves and nice-to-haves.
Depending on the type of commercial kitchen you’re going to be running, your list of must-have items can include anything from commercial freezers to convectional ovens and all the small appliances in between. Keep reading as we share some tips to make this process easier.
Choose Kitchen Equipment Wisely
Selecting the best products for your business involves factors such as the type of kitchen, space, unique needs, and of course, the budget you’re working with. Your preferred appliances may not always fit into these criteria, making it difficult to narrow down your choices. Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing kitchen equipment.
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Kitchen Space
The most significant factor to consider when you’re choosing any kitchen equipment is space availability. You may have the budget for the biggest and best appliance, but that will mean nothing if there’s no space in the kitchen!
Always measure the space you would like the appliance to stand in so that you can get a more accurate idea of what to look for when you go shopping. Check factors such as height as well, especially if you’re ordering an upright freezer with a top-mounted compressor. Keep in mind that some appliances may also have specific ventilation requirements, which means they may be able to fit flush with the wall.
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Assess What You Need
After making a note of all the space you have available, the next step is to make an accurate list of what you need. Do this by checking for the appliances that make food preparation, cooking and storing simple for all the items on your menu.
When you’re setting up your kitchen, it’s essential to start with what you truly need. You can always expand as your business (and your menu) grows. Don’t only look for items that make kitchen work easier. Be sure to include serving and storage solutions in your planning.
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Compare Brands
You may already have top brands in mind that you have used extensively in your home kitchen. However, it’s important to keep in mind that you may need to invest in brands that specialize in industrial equipment. This is because these appliances will be working at least twice as hard as your home environment.
Cheaper brands tend to look more appealing since the less money you spend on each appliance frees you up money to buy more. Be careful of this way of thinking as it may end up costing you more in the long run when you need to replace items after only a few month’s use.
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Consider Your Kitchen Style
The style of your kitchen is as essential as the space you have available. This is especially the case if you have an open-plan kitchen that patrons can look into. In this instance, you’ll want appliances that match the theme, décor and atmosphere of your restaurant’s theme. For instance, if you have a modern, streamlined theme, then you’ll want to opt for silver appliances with slim and sleek designs.
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Review the Maintenance and Repairs Processes
No matter how well you look after your kitchen equipment, there will always be maintenance and repair costs to factor in. Check for appliances that come with warranties and service plans as these will be more cost-effective in the long run.
It’s also always a good idea to speak to your manufacturer for the contact details of a registered repair service that has been authorised to do maintenance on their products. Doing this will ensure that your appliances are maintained by skilled people who also know how to source genuine parts when they’re needed.
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Energy Efficiency Should be Essential
An important aspect of your business is to focus on reducing your initial overhead expenses. This means that you will need to opt for equipment and appliances that are energy efficient. The more energy-efficient your appliances are, the more likely you are to see a reduction in your overall energy bill.
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Look for Undercounter Options
If you don’t have a significant amount of space for free-standing equipment, it’s a good idea to consider under-counter options for products such as dishwashers and wine freezers.
This means that you’ll easily be able to slot smaller items under the counters where you’re storing other appliances, or even working. Keeping as many items as possible off the main kitchen floor also ensures that there’s enough space for everyone to work and move around.
Final Thoughts
Use our tips to help you choose the best kitchen equipment for your commercial kitchen needs. Keep in mind that the appliances you use the most often should be durable and easy to maintain, as this can reduce the likelihood of downtime and costly repairs. Choosing the right equipment is essential to your business’s success!
