The Importance of Maintenance of Commercial Catering Equipment
Your commercial kitchen is a bustling hub that never stops, whether during peak hours, private events, or menu testing sessions. Therefore, maintaining your kitchen and all equipment in top condition is a foremost priority.
Benefits of Regular Maintenance
The maintenance of commercial catering equipment offers numerous benefits. Not only does it save money, but it also enhances energy efficiency and saves time. If you currently neglect maintenance, let us explain why it’s crucial and share some handy tips.
1. Creating a Cleaning Schedule
Firstly, a proper cleaning schedule ensures the removal of grease, stains, and food particles, leading to superior food quality. Additionally, regular cleaning maintains a safe and healthy environment for staff and customers. Ensure that anyone cleaning your appliances follows the stainless steel cleaning instructions in the manual for the best results. At NWCE, we provide a checklist during installation to guide regular cleaning and proper maintenance.
2. Cleaning Vent Hood & Ducts
Many businesses overlook cleaning vent hoods and ducts. These collect grease and debris, and should be cleaned by a certified service every six months. At NWCE, our qualified professionals clean them thoroughly during service, ensuring they shine like new. Furthermore, instruct your staff to wipe down the hood exterior regularly to maintain cleanliness.
3. Cleaning Deep Fat Fryers
Neglecting deep-fat fryer maintenance can pose significant fire hazards. At NWCE, we provide a manual with cleaning tips during installation. We recommend an annual inspection by a qualified contractor. Remember, some high-risk parts require professional cleaning to avoid hazards. Consequently, our preventative maintenance contracts typically include service calls every six months.
4. Cleaning Grease Filters
Regularly cleaning grease filters is a simple way to prevent grease fires. At NWCE, we advise weekly cleaning for most kitchens, though high-grease operations may require more frequent attention. This practice not only reduces fire risks but also minimises debris on other equipment.
5. Replacing Broken Parts Quickly
Ignoring broken parts can lead to more significant issues. Therefore, at NWCE, we encourage immediate replacement to prevent further damage and costly replacements. Indeed, delays can lead to appliance breakdowns and increased negligence.
6. Cleaning Air Filters
Clean air filters are essential for cooling equipment like refrigerators. Dust and grease can clog filters, causing overheating and breakdowns. At NWCE, we advise regular cleaning with a Shop-Vac and degreasing solution to maintain efficiency and reduce energy bills.
7. Floor Maintenance
The kitchen floor, often overlooked, is essential equipment. Neglecting its cleanliness can lead to slips and hinder productivity. At NWCE, we provide a manual with recommended cleaning products approved by the National Floor Safety Institute. Thus, daily scrubbing with a deck brush and using non-slip mats and shoes can improve safety.
Pro Tips for Maintenance
Include daily cleaning of burners, grates, and skillets in your routine. Additionally, soak removable parts monthly in warm, soapy water. Regularly clean drip trays and areas where grease accumulates. Use alkaline detergents for stainless steel stains and vinegar for lime stains. Choose soaps with citric acid for best results. Furthermore, avoid leaving wet metal on stainless steel to prevent rust. Hire cleaners from the National Association of Duct Cleaners for extraction systems and follow NWCE’s installation guidelines to keep warranties valid. Moreover, study manuals in advance for hassle-free staff training and inspections.
Contact us today for the best tips on maintaining your commercial kitchen appliances. Call us at 0161 764 8688 or email [email protected] for any assistance with sales, installation, maintenance, repair, or service. Our team is always ready to support you.
