Choosing the Right Commercial Kitchen Equipment

When it comes to selecting commercial kitchen equipment, you should proceed cautiously. After all, your kitchen is your biggest investment and the commercial-grade equipment your kitchen requires is not cheap. You don’t want to go for the cheapest equipment out there, but you also don’t want to be ripped off or make unnecessary purchases. Consider your choices carefully, do your research and follow these tips that will point you in the right direction:

1. Know Your Restaurant

You’re the expert. Where do you fit within the food service industry? Are ovens and deep fryers the most important equipment for the type of food you serve? Or should you spend top dollar on auxiliary equipment? Before making any purchasing decisions, be 100% confident about your role and goals as a restaurant.

2. Shop OEM Parts

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturers. These companies make parts or systems used in other name brand companies’ end product. When you’re looking for replacement parts for the best commercial equipment, shop from the best manufacturers.

3. Get a Warranty

As you know, equipment wears down over time and needs to be replaced. That’s why you should choose products backed by lifetime support and service. If you really want to reduce down time, lower energy costs, and have longer-lasting equipment, CPS has developed a preventative maintenance program that exceeds manufacturer’s recommendations.

4. Make Sure Performance Standards are Met

Look for companies with equipment that meets ENERGY STAR standards. If the companies have won awards for having efficient products, even better. Your wallet will thank you for the energy savings that will accrue. Plus you’re more likely to have high-functioning, long-lasting equipment that will pass any inspections in the long run.

5. Choose Companies with History

Many of the manufacturers CPS gets parts from have been around for decades. Not only that, but these manufacturers are leaders in their industries, which leads us to the next point.

6. Choose Specialized Manufacturers

You don’t have to get all your equipment from the same manufacturer – in fact, you shouldn’t. Choose highly specialized manufacturers to get the best parts. For example, Bunn specializes in commercial coffee machines, American Range is great for ovens and stoves, and Beverage-Air leads the way in commercial refrigeration equipment.

7. Don’t Buy Used

In order to get a full warranty and the guarantee that a part or product is in perfect condition, don’t buy used parts. If you must buy used parts or equipment, make sure it’s in excellent condition and the part isn’t a central focus in your kitchen.

When it comes to parts, repair service and maintenance for your commercial kitchen equipment, the process can be daunting! However, CPS is only a phone call away: 800-837-8327. We’ll be happy to help you schedule service, find replacement parts, setup a maintenance program or provide emergency service.