When to Replace Your Commercial Kitchen Equipment

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How to Know When to Replace Your Commercial Kitchen Equipment

March 1, 2021

When commercial kitchen equipment starts to malfunction, it can be a huge headache for a kitchen manager. Once repair bills start racking up, it can be difficult to determine if the equipment is fixable, or if it needs to be completely replaced.

The best way to make that call is to bring in a trusted commercial equipment repair company, ideally one that is an Authorized Service Agent (ASA) who is manufacturer-trained and supported to fix your equipment. Seeking out a Tennessee commercial kitchen repair company that is a member of CFESA is also a good idea. These two designations can indicate that the company holds its repairs to independent industry standards. A certified and trained kitchen equipment repair technician can suggest needed repairs or offer guidance on purchasing new commercial kitchen equipment. While you’re consulting expert advice, here are a few issues that probably indicate it’s time for a replacement.

1. Replace it if repair costs are rising.

At some point, the cost of repeat repairs equals or exceeds the cost of new equipment. At that point, it’s time to invest in something new. While replacing commercial kitchen equipment can be an unwanted expense, it can actually save you money in the long run. By reducing energy costs and frequent repairs, a new piece of equipment can pay for itself relatively quickly. A common industry standard is to replace a piece of equipment if the repair is over 50% of the equipment’s replacement value.

2. Replace it if it’s tough to find spare parts.

Workhorse equipment is fantastic to have in any commercial kitchen, but older pieces may have highly specific replacement parts, which, over time, can be difficult to source. Since older equipment is more likely to break down, a lack of availability of those parts can be a real problem. Consider retiring any older equipment as it reaches the end of its life. Having equipment suddenly break down in the middle of a lunch rush with no available spare parts isn’t the best way to say goodbye.

If you’ve been happy with the longevity of your older equipment, you can often replace it with a newer model from the same manufacturer. New safety features and other innovations may mean you love your new equipment even more than your older one.

3. Replace it if you have any safety concerns.

Food and employee safety are both paramount in commercial kitchens. If your coolers and freezers aren’t reliably keeping the temperature consistent, the inventory costs can be astronomical. Save yourself from the frustration and expense of having to toss unsafe food by replacing the equipment if the temperatures vary widely from day to day. Similarly, be on the lookout for standing water next to dishwashers, frayed wires on electrical units, and rusted out panels on cooking equipment. Any one of these issues could signal a safety hazard.

Does your commercial kitchen equipment need an upgrade?

ATECH can help you determine if your equipment can be repaired by our experienced technicians or if it needs to be replaced. With years of experience repairing hundreds of different manufacturer models, we can help prolong the life of your equipment by creating a customized repair and planned maintenance schedule. Reach out to us today to schedule a service call or call us directly at 800-700-9192.

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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.