Pros and Cons of New and Used Commercial Equipment

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July 13, 2021

Purchasing equipment for a commercial kitchen can be a very expensive undertaking. In order to equip your kitchen with professional-grade appliances, you must make a substantial economic investment. When faced with the costs of setting up a commercial kitchen, many restaurant owners wonder if buying used equipment is a better idea. There are definitely pros and cons to buying both new and used equipment. We’ll walk you through the advantages and disadvantages, so you can make the decision that works best for you and your budget.

Advantages of Buying New Commercial Kitchen Equipment

One positive thing about buying brand new commercial kitchen equipment is that you know you are starting with a brand-new machine. Equipment fresh off the factory line is less likely to need major repairs in the first few years of use, although there are always exceptions to the rule. When you purchase a new piece of equipment, the manufacturer you choose will likely have a list of Authorized Service Agents (ASAs) they trust to make repairs. Once the equipment is installed, it’s a good idea to establish a relationship with a trusted repair company. An ASA repair service company can set up scheduled maintenance visits to check on the function of your new equipment at regular intervals.

New equipment also comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. Some manufacturers, like Alto-Shaam, Southbend, and Star focus on ASA incentives for stocking parts and guaranteed response times to ensure a high, quick rate of first-time fixes. Warranty rates vary based on what the equipment is and who the manufacturer is. A good rule of thumb is one year on cooking equipment, one year on reach-in coolers and freezers (though some manufacturers offer three), and three years on ice machines. Stay tuned for more about this in an upcoming blog.

Disadvantages of Buying New Commercial Kitchen Equipment

The downside of buying new commercial kitchen equipment is that it can be a formidable expense, especially if you are opening your very first restaurant. Opening a restaurant can have a variety of unexpected costs, including permit applications and health inspections. Buying new equipment can have a major effect on a restaurant’s budget, which can be difficult to recoup in the competitive world of food service. In addition, buying new equipment doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll avoid any maintenance issues. Depending on the manufacturer you choose, you may end up with equipment that isn’t reliable. Even trusted manufacturers can have a series of equipment that doesn’t meet a high performance standard. Buying trusted, used kitchen equipment can sometimes prevent this issue from occurring.

Disadvantages of Buying Used Commercial Kitchen Equipment

There are also disadvantages to buying used kitchen equipment. Two of the most common are that the equipment could have major maintenance issues or it could be near the end of its lifetime. However, there are concrete ways to circumvent these problems. First, consider working with a kitchen equipment service company to inspect the unit before you buy it. A qualified professional can help determine if the equipment is still usable, or if it’s not a good investment to make. If you’re concerned about a history of past issues, feel free to ask the seller for any service records. If the restaurant is going out of business, you may find equipment in good condition. If the restaurant is still operational, but selling an old unit, this might be cause for concern.

Advantages of Buying Used Commercial Kitchen Equipment

Buying used kitchen equipment can offset some of the costs of setting up a commercial kitchen. When you’re planning your kitchen equipment budget, consider what items are important to buy new and what equipment you can buy used. You don’t need to buy all used or all new equipment. If you want to buy new walk-in commercial refrigeration equipment but buy used ranges and ovens, that’s definitely an option.

A commercial kitchen equipment repair company can give you tips on which equipment needs the most service, and which equipment can go for years without needing much maintenance. A service company may also know through manufacturer relationships and service history which brands tend to hold up over time and which brands they’re repairing on a weekly basis. This type of insider information can help you make informed choices about which brands to buy new and which to buy used. Buying used equipment can also mean that you may be able to afford higher-end brands and manufacturers than you would if you were purchasing the equipment new.

Consult ATECH For Advice Before Buying Commercial Kitchen Equipment

Getting a commercial kitchen up and running is a huge feat that requires careful planning and coordination. The heart of any restaurant kitchen is its equipment. By making wise purchasing decisions, you’ll outfit your kitchen with the tools necessary to operate smoothly. Once you have your equipment in place, reach out to ATECH for a planned maintenance quote. We’re an authorized service agent for over 60 manufacturers. We’re also proud of our written 90-day parts and labor warranty, backed by our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. Let us show you why so many Tennessee businesses trust ATECH for commercial equipment repair.

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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.