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Conventional vs. Convection vs. Combi Oven: How to Choose What's Best for Your Commercial Kitchen

December 3, 2021

ATECH’s quick guide to choosing an oven

Whether you're establishing your first restaurant, expanding to a new location, or updating your equipment, one of the most essential parts of your commercial kitchen is your oven. These powerful work horses are the heart of the kitchen, so it's worth investing time and resources to find the one that best matches your needs. During that process you will consider an oven’s manufacturer, model, and size. You should also take time to determine what oven is right for your commercial kitchen. Conventional and convection ovens are two types to choose from. Depending on your needs, steam ovens, rotisseries, conveyor ovens, or combination ovens may also have a place in your kitchen. To help you make that call, here is ATECH’s quick guide to choosing the type of oven that's right for you.

If You: Roast Most of Your Foods

A high-heat convection oven will provide you with evenly-roasted meats and vegetables in record time. Convection ovens do run at a slightly higher price point than conventional ovens. However, they make up for that initial investment by allowing you to increase output due to the speed and efficiency of this oven. If roasting is a constant in your kitchen, consider the steady, even heat of a convection oven.

If You: Run a Bakery or Cook Breads and Pastries Often

A convection oven is best for you. In a convection oven, high heat is circulated by an intake fan. This leads to more consistent heat surrounding the product at all times. Due to the consistency and power of the heat, a convection oven can shorten cooking times and speed up your kitchen’s output. For a bakery, where prep and cooking begins in the pre-dawn hours, that saved time can be a huge advantage.

If You: Don’t Need All the Bells and Whistles

A conventional oven is perfect for commercial kitchens that have straightforward cooking needs. These high-powered, high-heat commercial ovens will work well for years and require less maintenance than other types of ovens. They’re easy to clean, easy to repair, and provide reliable and powerful heat for almost all commercial kitchen needs.

If You: Are On a Limited Budget

When you’re ready to purchase a commercial kitchen oven, a conventional oven is the most economical option for you. Many manufacturers make reasonably priced, well-performing ovens that won’t let you down. If you want to save even more money, check out commercial kitchen auctions or pre-owned ovens. Before committing to a pre-owned oven, have a reputable repair service inspect the equipment for any issues.

If You: Need a Versatile Oven for Many Different Techniques

Look into a combi (combination) oven if your team needs the power to steam, braise, roast, and bake all in one oven. These techniques are absolutely possible with a conventional oven, but a combi-oven allows for cooking a variety of products at the same time without flavor migration with programmable options and finely-tuned settings. For fine dining restaurants, a combi-oven provides high performance and versatility.

ATECH Can Help You Choose Between Conventional and Convection Ovens

With any oven you choose, you need to establish a relationship with a repair service that understands the differences between all types of ovens and is qualified to repair them. Look for an Authorized Service Agent (ASA) who is certified to repair multiple manufacturers and provides a guarantee on their work. For more information on choosing an oven and setting up a planned maintenance schedule, reach out to ATECH today.

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Spring into Cleanliness: Essential Tips for Restaurant Spring Cleaning

By markl • March 20, 2024

As the season changes and springtime blooms, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your restaurant space. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's about ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for your patrons and staff. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips and best practices for restaurant cleanliness in the springtime. Embrace Deep Cleaning : Spring cleaning is the ideal time to tackle those deep cleaning tasks that may have been neglected during the busier seasons. From scrubbing floors and walls to deep cleaning kitchen equipment, thorough sanitation ensures a hygienic environment for food preparation and service. Focus on High-Traffic Areas : Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as dining areas, restrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to accumulating dirt, dust, and germs, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining a pristine appearance and preventing the spread of illness. Refresh Outdoor Spaces : If your restaurant has outdoor seating areas, spring is the perfect time to freshen them up. Clean outdoor furniture, sweep away debris, and power wash outdoor surfaces to create an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining. Check and Replace Equipment Filters : Don't forget to inspect and replace filters in HVAC systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation hoods. Clean filters help maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for both customers and staff. Engage Staff in Cleaning Initiatives : Encourage staff members to take pride in the cleanliness of the restaurant by involving them in spring cleaning initiatives. Assign specific tasks and provide training on proper cleaning procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedule : Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep up with cleaning tasks throughout the year. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can maintain a high standard of cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. Invest in Quality Cleaning Products : Choose cleaning products that are effective yet environmentally friendly. Look for products that are certified as safe for use in foodservice establishments and follow manufacturer recommendations for proper application and usage. Monitor and Adjust Cleaning Protocols : Continuously monitor cleaning protocols and adjust as needed based on feedback, customer traffic, and changing regulations. Regular evaluation ensures that your cleaning practices remain effective and in compliance with industry standards. Spring cleaning is an essential aspect of restaurant maintenance that goes beyond just aesthetics. By implementing thorough cleaning routines, engaging staff members, and investing in quality cleaning products, you can create a safe, hygienic environment that enhances the dining experience for your customers and promotes a healthy work environment for your staff. As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember that ATECH is here to support you with a wide range of cleaning and maintenance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your restaurant. Happy spring cleaning!

Mastering Winter with ATECH: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

By markl • January 26, 2024

Winter is here, and at ATECH, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in keeping their commercial equipment running smoothly during the colder months. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the strategies, tips, and success stories that can help your business navigate winter effortlessly. From equipment maintenance to emergency services, consider this your go-to resource for mastering winter with ATECH. Winter Equipment Maintenance Tips Checklist for Winter-Ready Equipment: Inspect Seals and Gaskets : Ensure a tight seal to prevent cold air leakage. Check Insulation : Evaluate the insulation of walk-in coolers and freezers. Clean and Sanitize : Thoroughly clean and sanitize all equipment surfaces. Temperature Adjustment : Set optimal winter temperatures for each piece of equipment. ATech Maintenance Tips for Different Equipment: Fryers and Grills : Clean and inspect burners for efficient operation. Ice Machines : Check water lines for insulation and replace filters regularly. Heating Systems : Schedule preventive maintenance to optimize efficiency. Electronic Equipment : Keep spaces well-heated and clean to prevent malfunctions. Businesses often grapple with specific equipment failures that can disrupt operations. ATECH understands the challenges posed by heating system malfunctions, electronic equipment performance, and other issues during the colder months. To tackle these common winter-related failures, businesses should prioritize preventive measures. Regular heating system maintenance checks and air filter replacements can prevent malfunctions. For electronic equipment, maintaining ambient room temperature and conducting routine cleaning are key strategies to ensure optimal performance throughout winter. ATECH's Winter Services: A Lifeline for Your Business Winter demands a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, and ATECH stands as the lifeline for businesses navigating the challenges of the season. Our comprehensive winter services go beyond mere repair and include prompt equipment repairs, planned maintenance, and emergency services. With a commitment to same-day service for urgent winter emergencies, ATECH ensures that businesses can rely on swift resolution during critical times. What sets us apart is our team of factory-trained and CFESA-certified technicians, offering not just reliability but a dedicated partnership to keep your business running smoothly through the coldest months. Trust in ATECH, your lifeline in the winter business landscape. Winter doesn't have to be a season of uncertainty for your business. With ATECH by your side, you have a reliable partner dedicated to providing top-notch equipment repairs and maintenance services. Master winter with confidence, knowing that our comprehensive guide and expert services are here to support your business every step of the way. For personalized winter readiness assessments and expert guidance, contact ATECH today. Let's navigate winter together, and keep your business thriving.