Knowing when to replace commercial kitchen equipment can help ensure continuous operation, as well as minimize business disruptions. Commercial refrigeration and HVAC repair company Cafco Services shares some key considerations for replacing kitchen equipment here.
Safety — Safety is of paramount importance in a commercial kitchen. When kitchen equipment is in top shape, your staff can concentrate on their work without worrying about their safety. If one of your staff discovers malfunctioning equipment, shut it down until it can be inspected thoroughly. If deemed unrepairable, have it replaced immediately. Avoid such disruptions by conducting regular safety inspections.
Increasing Repair Costs — HVAC installation companies recommend replacing air conditioners when they’re no longer cost-effective to repair. The same logic applies to kitchen equipment, all of which require occasional tune-ups and repairs during their life cycle. However, if a piece of equipment needs repairs too often, the annual repair costs can add up quickly, to the point that replacing it will actually cost less. You also have to consider that new equipment comes with new warranties. The money you save on warranty repairs may help offset some of the replacement costs.
Changes In the Menu — Every restaurant undergoes changes to the menu, which may impact kitchen requirements in terms of equipment. For example, if you decide to increase the grilled meat options on your menu, you’ll need to invest in additional grills should demand rise. You should also consider how a change in equipment may make your current preparation process more efficient. For example, replacing a sandwich press with a salamander broiler can increase yield while saving on prep time.
Business Growth — Business growth can influence your decision to replace—or more accurately, upgrade—your kitchen equipment. A hole-in-the-wall burger joint that becomes an overnight success will need bigger and more efficient equipment to handle the demand. This may mean upgrading the reach-in refrigerators to walk-in ones or buying new grills and ovens.
Cafco Services is one of the leading heating and air conditioning maintenance companies in Cincinnati. Give us a call at (513) 242-3400 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.