Who is Responsible for Commercial Kitchen Equipment Maintenance?

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November 15, 2022

A commercial kitchen is a fast-paced environment filled with people who all have their own unique responsibilities and areas of focus. Whether you own the restaurant or you’re a new line chef, there’s always a lot of work to be done. As a result, it’s easy to lose focus on the equipment that’s being used each day to keep your kitchen running smoothly.

One of the questions we often get from our customers is, “Who should be responsible for the maintenance of the commercial kitchen equipment in our restaurant?” While each restaurant is unique in its structure, the most common advice we share is that it needs to be a shared endeavor. It’s everyone’s responsibility to make sure your restaurant equipment is functioning and any potential problems are addressed quickly.

In order for everyone to play their part in maintaining and extending the life of your equipment, we wanted to highlight the various roles and responsibilities each team member should play. We’ve also linked to some helpful resources to help you develop a planned maintenance routine for your commercial kitchen equipment.

Role & Responsibilities of Restaurant Owner

1. Develop the systems and routines to keep your kitchen running smoothly. It’s your job to eliminate the guesswork around equipment maintenance and care. One way to do this is to establish the systems and routines for opening the kitchen, working throughout a shift, and closing the kitchen each night.

2. Know how often your kitchen equipment needs maintenance. Each piece of equipment in your kitchen requires different levels of care. This resource will help you discover how often you need to schedule maintenance for your ovens, refrigerators, ventilation systems, dishwashers, and other pieces of equipment.

3. Establish a planned maintenance checklist for your employees. Once you’ve identified the planned maintenance that each piece of equipment needs, it’s time to assign tasks to your team members.

4. Select a certified service company to take care of your maintenance needs. It’s often the owner or manager's responsibility to hire technicians or maintenance providers to service their equipment. There are key factors to consider before you hire a commercial kitchen equipment service company, and this resource will explain how to choose a repair company.

5. Make sure your team is prepared if equipment fails. If a piece of equipment fails, it’s essential to fix the issue quickly. It’s also helpful to know how you’re going to adapt during service if needed. As an owner or manager, it’s your responsibility to make sure everyone on your team knows what to do in case a piece of equipment fails.

Role & Responsibilities of Shift Manager or Kitchen Manager

1. Emphasize equipment care when onboarding new employees. Shift managers are often responsible for on-the-job training. While every kitchen has its own unique ways of doing things, it’s important to train new employees on the importance of caring for equipment during the first weeks on the job. With the challenges of employee turnover, this is doubly important to stay up-to-date and consistent.

2. Train employees to recognize potential issues. Catching small equipment issues can help prevent them from becoming big problems. You can train employees to share any decrease in performance, notice leaks, and pay special attention to the older pieces of equipment in order to prevent major breakdowns.

3. Implement best practices to keep equipment operating smoothly. Shift managers are responsible for making sure the policies that are put into place are implemented correctly. This includes everything from communicating expectations around equipment care to identifying ways to improve the processes and checklists for cleaning.

Role & Responsibilities of Line Workers

1. Know what pieces of equipment need extra attention. Part of working in a kitchen means being familiar with the equipment. As someone on the front lines of your restaurant, it’s important to recognize the equipment that needs the most attention in a commercial kitchen.

2. Make sure equipment is properly cleaned. Cleaning is a big part of preventive maintenance. Line workers are often the ones responsible for regularly cleaning and maintaining equipment in order for it to provide the best service.

3. Report any issues to the appropriate supervisor as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when repairing a piece of equipment. Whether your ice machine stops working or your dishwasher goes out, it’s important to communicate any issues quickly.

Let ATECH Care for Your Commercial Kitchen Maintenance Needs

At ATECH, our team understands the repair needs of individual restaurants as well as large, multi-site operations. We’re committed to maintaining your equipment and fixing anything quickly, accurately, and efficiently. To find out how we can help keep your operation running smoothly, reach out to us today for a planned maintenance quote.

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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.