A commercial dishwasher is a machine that will make your work easier and faster in your restaurant. With it in your facility, you will be able to attend to as many customers as possible, and there won't be any need for them to wait for plates or cups. Meanwhile, there won't be a shortage of staff to attend to customers since one responsibility is already taken care of by the dishwasher.

Getting the right dishwasher for your business does not worth the pain and stress. All you need is guidance, and you just enter where you can get it. The following are all you need to consider while purchasing a dishwasher for your business.

1. Cost

The amount you have budgeted for the machine should top the list and every other thing will follow. Whether it's a café, caterer business, bar or restaurant, there is always a set cost to guide your purchasing ability. But even with that, you will still want to buy a dishwasher that will serve your business efficiently. Therefore, you must hold on to your budget as you use other factors to make your final decision.

2. Size and capacity

Size and capacity are the other factors that should take a high priority in your consideration list. The two works together and a disaster may happen if only one is considered. The capacity of your dishwasher should be judged by the size of your restaurant and the number of people it receives daily.

Buying a small capacity dishwasher for big business will reduce the number of customers you can serve at once. Moreover, it will shorten the lifespan of the dishwasher if much pressure is put upon it. Therefore, you need to first evaluate the number of seats occupied at once in your restaurant to know the capacity of your suitable dishwasher.

However, while considering the capacity, you must think of the available space for your machine. It is very intelligent to know that a big capacity dishwasher will demand a big space. Then, do you have enough room to accommodate your dishwasher? If not it's time you provide for a bigger space or go for a small-sized machine.

Considering these factors will enable you to avoid some troubles. Like getting a washer that will restrict the movement of your staff. Meanwhile, the last thing you want to do is to purchase one that can't withstand the workload of your business.

3. Usability

While going through the market to pick a good dishwasher for your business, you must deliberate on the ease at which it can be operated. Remember that one of your workers will be saddled with the responsibility of the loading and running of the machine. And the mess that can occur if the machine is so hard to operate. Moreover, you are dealing with a delicate objects like dishes and glassware.

Therefore, it will be sensible to picture how the operation of the machine will look like in your kitchen. Can the racks work with the size and design of the wares you are using in your restaurant? By what means can you attach your water supply and drainage to pass out the used water.

4. Speed

The faster the speed of the dishwasher, the earlier you get your dishes washed. Commercial dishwashers such as the under-bench dishwashers are faster than the normal ones used in the houses.  Meaning that you should get rid of the idea of purchasing the home dishwasher for your café or catering business. You should look forward to a dishwasher that can complete one cycle in 2 to 3 minutes.

5. Temperature

You may find this funny, but do you know that a high-temperature dishwasher is preferable to a low-temperature type. Because the low temperature will require chemicals to do the sanitization of the dishes, but as for the high-temperature varieties the hot water is enough to sanitize the glassware. Although you may have to prepare yourself to pay more for electric bills it is more worthy than purchasing chemicals and later deal with its effect on your drainage system. Moreover, too many chemicals will weaken the dishes.

6. Noise

Commercial dishwashers are bound to make noise due to the heavy work they perform. And the stronger they are, the louder the noise they emit. The noise can be inevitable but you can select a less loud one by studying their decibel ratings. As new designs are made with the advancement in technology, the manufacturers of dishwashers have been trying to reduce the noise emitted by their products which is revealed in the decibel ratings.

The decibel is a phenomenon that gives the measurement of the levels of sound. Meanwhile, the decibel rating of a dishwasher depends on some other factors. Apart from its design, the placement of its electric motor and pump determines the intensity of the noise it will emit. A dishwasher that has those components at the top makes less noise than that which has them at the tub. Meanwhile, the insulator plays a significant role in reducing machine loudness.

7. Electrical efficiency

The power to be consumed by a dishwasher is something to consider while looking out for one in the market. The machines are made to consume a lot of electricity, therefore, you must consider the strength of the electrical socket to plug it in. And you may have to hire an electrician to assist with the installation of the dishwasher.

8. Water requirement

Electricity is not the only thing needed for a dishwasher to work. There must be a supply of water through an inlet and a drainage pathway to release out used water. These are some of the things you have to cater for before purchasing a dishwasher for your business.

We won't just offer you guidance without showing you the best dishwasher we have in our store for you. These are under-bench dishwashers that will serve your café, restaurant, bar, or catering services. We have different varieties for you to select the one that is capable of handling the workload of your restaurant. Moreover, these are dishwashers made by Fagor, one of the best manufacturing brands of dishwashers with nice reviews and a strong reputation.

The machine plays a significant role in ensuring that a restaurant meets the need of its customers. These people will keep on storming a restaurant so far they are assured of getting their chilled coffee and drinks which in turn would bring much profit to the business.

Have you decided to buy your ice machine? Or you have tried but couldn't get a good one. This article is set to assist you in making the right selection of the best ice generator for your business. Buying a compatible ice maker requires that you consider the following things:

1.    The type and size of the ice that you want for your business.
There are different types and sizes of ice with each having their specific uses. For example, cube ice is best served with beverages because it takes more time to melt and looks great inside the glasses. The flake ice helps in keeping seafood intact and prevent substance bruising during transportation because of its gentleness. The gourmet or spray ice is crystal clear with the ability of longer melting period while bullet ice is very soft and takes less time of production.
Each type of ice requires a special ice maker to produce them. Therefore, it is right for a restaurateur or a bar owner to decide on which one is suitable for their business- a cube ice machine or a flake ice maker? Choosing one for your business shouldn't be hard nor stressful, and all you have to do is to make a list of drinks served in your restaurant. Then make research on the ice that is best served with all the drinks in consideration with the glass cups used in the bar.

2.    Position of the machine
Here is another thing you have to consider before buying an ice machine for your business. Positioning affects your ice machine selection because you have to cater for water supply and assessment. Some machine requires that you make provision for the automatic supply of water for its operation. This kind of ice machine can work within a bar or a clubhouse for customers to easily scoop ice into their drinks. However, as convenient as it is, one has to create a channel for passing out the drain. The other types of ice machines support manual input of the water, and sometimes mobility with their small size.  
Moreover, the distance and the means of transportation from the position of your ice maker to the restaurant matters a lot. You must make sure that they are very close so that the ice won't melt off before getting to the place of use.

3.    Water or air-cooled ice machine
While deciding the position of the ice machine, you must consider the possible highest ambient temperature of the selected environment. By considering the temperature of the environment in which the ice maker will be situated, you would be able to choose the machine that works with the available cooling mechanism. High temperature can affect the working efficiency of the machine. Therefore, it will be better to purchase an ice generator that possesses a cooling system. It can either be a water-cooled or air-cooled ice machine.
The air-cooled ice machine is best situated close to the vent or by the window where it will continuously receive the influx and outflow of air. However, if it is in a closed area, a water cooling ice machine is nice. Although, there will need to devise a channel by which water would be supplied to cool the condenser regularly.

4.    The quantity of ice to be produced
A caterer or a restaurateur needs to estimate the quantity of ice required per day before proceeding on buying an ice machine. These machines are in different sizes and power ratings and therefore, their production capacity varies. When a bar owner makes the mistake of buying an ice machine that produces less ice than required. Such a person is at the brim of losing lots of customers or probably spend more amount on getting ice from nearby restaurants or stores. Meanwhile, making more than the demand is not better off.
For this reason, a restaurant has to first evaluate the average ice needed in the restaurant in a day. Not just that, he must also put the weather and season into consideration. People are likely to consume more ice on sunny days than cold days which implies the need for thorough data analysis. The result of the analysis will determine the correct size of the ice machine for your business.

5.    Electrical setup
Considering the electrical setup of the facility where the ice machine will be positioned will save you from the expenses of getting an electrician. These machines are in different models and sizes and require a different outlet for plugging. Therefore, you have to be on the lookout so that the purchased ice machine plug will be compatible with the electrical outlet available in the facility. These machines may either have the 115v or 200v plug depending on the size which has different form of receptacles. Meanwhile, experts advised that a GFCI outlet with the "test" and "reset" feature can endanger the lifespan of your ice maker.

6.    Maintenance
While thinking of buying an ice generator for your business, you have to prepare a cleaning schedule for the machine. As well known, that ice machine produces consumable ice, therefore, all hygienic rules must be followed. Poor maintenance will result in the production of less qualitative ice and shorten the lifespan of the ice maker.
 
Why not save yourself the stress of running through every ice machine in a store. Federal Hospitality Equipment is there to help you get the best ice maker and other commercial refrigeration for your business. You can also check our list to pick any of our available ice machines at an affordable price. Patronize us today and thank us later.

Purchasing used commercial kitchen equipment is often the best choice for an upcoming catering business. The truth is that some notable restaurants also opt-in for this decision to save money in times of financial crisis. However, it has been the greatest nightmare to others, and one would be taking a big risk without knowing the needful. For this reason, federal kitchen equipment has decided to educate people on the topic by sharing the top tips in buying used kitchen equipment.

 

1. Go for products with a lesser time of usage

Used equipment within the range of 1-3years is excellent because they tend to last longer than others. These tools are usually sold out because their owners are quitting the business, or they want to sell it out to cater for other needs. Therefore, most of their components are still intact, and it requires little or no amount to bring them back to form. Never go for a product that is beyond this time scope. Remember the belief that products that have been in use for long won't last long like those of a short period. Also, don't hesitate to ask for the years the tools have been used, though it is hard to find a trustworthy dealer who will disclose the truth.   

 

2. Buy kitchen equipment manufactured by reputable brands

Before you buy either a used or new product, it is advisable to do your research on the best brand. Don't rely only on reviews and what you see on the internet. Try as much as possible to converse with people in the catering business to find out the brands with the last longing product. Sometimes the foreign product is the best while in some other aspect locally made product is very effective. Although people claim that brands like Vulcan and Wolf are nice, don't forget that each brand has its strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, give no room for blind decisions and seek out expert advice.

   

3. Dent and scratch equipment are the best

Dent and scratched tools are those that are rejected by buyers after shipping because they have an indentation on them, and the company sells them at a lesser price. The dents and scratches are not a big problem, and it is not related to the technical functionality of the equipment. It's usually based on paintings or cosmetic damage. Going for stuff like this is a smart move because it will work perfectly like a brand new one. You can later go for painting or blending the scratch if the tool is meant for advertisement like the display fridge.

 

4. Go for the product with warranty

Warranty is another reason behind buying a product that has been used for a lesser period. During that period, the warranty, a document issued by the manufacturing company to the buyer that assures the value and usability of a product for a specific time interval, is still valid. Therefore, you can claim the right when unexpected damage occurs, provided that the warranty is transferable. The company will be the one to incur for the whole or half of the cost to repair the damaged base on the agreement.

   

5. Think simple

The simplicity of secondhand tools will reduce the chance of dealing with the unforeseen damaging of parts. It's a standard law that sophisticated equipment has a higher percentage of getting spoilt because it comprises many components. For this reason, restaurateurs should think less about buying used electrical equipment. They consist of many circuit boards and elements making it very hard to detect and correct any abnormalities. Yes, it's understandable that they are comfortable to utilize and manage, but buying their secondhand is the last thing you want to do.

There is nothing wrong with purchasing used gas equipment. Their design is simple, and their working principle is more mechanical. Most errors are related to leakages or blockages, and the repair is usually changing parts or tightening some nuts. However, on the issue of gas equipment, restaurant owners should buy their new gas fryers to avoid an explosion. The tool is too cheap to destroy the thinking of buying a used one, and it doesn't worth the risk.  

Meanwhile, the restaurant can buy more used furniture, tables, sink, and stainless tables to kitchenware.  

     

6. Request for the operation manual

You should demand the manual if you are not familiar with the control of the equipment. The manual will teach both you and your workers on the usage and maintenance of the machine. Running complex equipment using intuition or idea will reduce its life span.

 

7. Availabilities of parts

You would agree with me that this is the reason we have abandoned cars at the mechanic workshop nowadays. People buy expensive stuff without caring about the availability of their components. And I am pretty sure that you won't want to experience this disappointing situation at the beginning of your restaurateur career. For this reason, you should research if the equipment's spare parts are readily available very close to you. Don't depend on an online store for the elements- what if it takes longer for the spare parts to reach you. Will your business have to suffer for that long?

 

8. Watch the equipment in use

If possible, demand that the machine is operated before you. This makes you determine whether it meets up your expectations or not, and also detects out the faults in it.

At F.E.D., our Ex-Showroom items can work wonders for you restaurant, café or takeaway shop, on a budget. These clearance products are reliable and just as useful as any other unit we sell; the only difference is that you get the best price possible!

The benefits of cake's display fridges go beyond their transparency. There aesthetic and compactness make it worthy for consideration. It can easily fit into any part of your shop, and the joy therein is that they are mostly in upright form, thereby taking less space. On the other hand, these fridges keep your products sparkling and adorable for a longer time. You do not need to doubt their efficiency. Display fridges are specifically manufactured to discharge the exact temperature and humidity required to preserve the values of any perishable food item.

Their longevity feature marks them outstanding among all other forms of refrigerators. They stay active for years, provided users keep to all the instructions. Candidly, a display fridge holds the achievement and reputation of any food institution. Realizing the advantages offered by these fridges is more straightforward than choosing the best one for your business. Many have gotten stuck and discouraged at the point of selection because they don't know what to check out. This article is to show you the way out by providing a comprehensive list of the factors to consider while deciding on the best cake's display fridge for your restaurant.

 1.      Location

This is the first thing to consider in choosing a display fridge for your shop because it will determine the form and size to purchase. The best thing is to look around your shop and decide on which area to place this fridge. Do you have enough space to buy a large base fridge? Or you will go for the upright form that takes less space. It is vital to consider this because you will be disappointed about buying a refrigerator that cannot fit properly into your cake shop. Another reason for bearing in mind the location is that display fridges cannot be placed anywhere in your restaurant. You have to select a designated position that will catch the eyes of anyone that enters your business premises. I hope you can still remember the strategy is to make them demand through what they see? Therefore, it will be useless to position the fridge where it is hidden from sight. The best place for this refrigerator is the central focal point that is visible to every customer at the moment they walk into your shop.

2.      Size

The size must also be a factor to consider while selecting the best refrigerator for your business. Meanwhile, the size depends on what you intended on displaying in the fridges. Cakes are in different sizes and steps. Therefore, there may need to choose a bigger and taller size. You may also want to buy the one with many compartments in case you want to display some other products apart from cakes. Whichever you pick is right for your business. Still, a big fridge is better because it is easily noticeable by everyone, unlike the smaller ones. Also, it is essential to contemplate the vastness of your business premises. Is it so massive to swallow up a small-sized display refrigerator?  

 3.      Budget and needs

Now that you have marked out the position for your display refrigerator. The next thing is to contemplate on how much you are willing to buy it. The cost of display fridges depends on its size, aesthetics, and its capacity. Therefore, this is the stage where you have to cut your cloths according to your size. It is paramount that you base your budget on what your business needs. You can easily opt for a small dimensional and much attractive display fridge if you are to use it to preserve and advertises cakes only. However, people in the cake business also engages in the selling of ingredients like butter and other food items so that a big size will be suitable in this case. Moreover, display fridges are the most economical you can ever think of, and they only cost for a few bucks.

 4.      Energy efficiency and extra features

There will need to research on the energy efficiency of different display refrigerators to evaluate which one best suits your business. Among all, you should select one that consumes less power, stays at low temperature for a more extended period, and allows better circulation of air. There are additional features like fast froze, frost freeze, efficient led lighting, fan cooling, and others to consider. The simplest way to do this is to read the specifications and customer reviews on varieties of display fridges. From this, you will be able to evaluate what they have to offer, which also includes their pros and cons. Don't be too forward at this stage, be patient and weight all options carefully to select the fittest display refrigerator for your cake store.

 5.      Environmental friendly.

This includes the easy usability of the display fridge and how customers can effortlessly relate to it. It must be such that customers can easily collect their items from the refrigerator, and staff can, without stress, reload it back to full size. At any location placed, the fridge must allow free movement of people around your store. Moreover, it must add more beauty to your store.

Now that you know the nitty-gritty of display fridges and how to choose a good one for your cake shop. Why not contact us, Federal hospitality equipment, to purchase your display refrigerators today. We are experts in this market and have a lot of experience dealing with these products. You can also check out our active list of refrigerators, and also ask questions on any of them. Patronize us today, and you will never regret it in the future!!!

But what do operators of restaurants, grocery stores, supermarkets, and other businesses involving food storage and production look for in a commercial freezer? The top requirement is a fridge with the ability to preserve food and guarantee the safety of customers.

The great news is there’s a wide range of commercial freezers that provide efficient ways to freeze items. But how do you go about purchasing a freezer that’s a perfect match for your specific needs? We’ve made the job easy for you.

In this article, we'll give you several smart tips for choosing the best commercial freezer for your restaurant.

Assess Your Storage Needs

How much refrigeration space do you have? The amount of room in your commercial space is a huge determinant of the type and size of the restaurant equipment you choose.

For businesses with a limited floor area, it’s best to make use of the vertical space by buying an upright freezer. This way, you can maximize the amount of stock you can display or store. If, on the other hand, you have ample floor space, then you have more options when it comes to the size and kind of freezer you can choose.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to install extra cold storage that you may require as your business expands.

Decide on the Type of Commercial Freezer You Need

Now that you know how much commercial space you have, it’s time to pick a specific type of freezer. The most common examples of freezers in the market include:

• Reach-in commercial refrigerators – these have shallow shelves that allow you to grab items easily. They're typically upright and have one to four doors.
• Worktop commercial refrigerators – these refrigerators feature a workspace across the top in addition to underneath refrigeration storage. They're essential for the prep line.
• Roll-in commercial refrigerators – these units feature no interior shelving. They sit directly on the floor and have a minimal cabinet floor, allowing racks on castors to roll directly into the cabinet.
• Walk-in commercial refrigerators – they're ideal for storing large quantities of food items. They let you move around in the refrigeration space freely and have easily accessible shelves.

So which of these four kinds of commercial refrigeration do you think is best for you?

Consider the Door Configuration

Freezer doors can either be solid or glass. Both types come in full or half heights. How do you determine the best door configuration for your freezer?

Look at the pros and cons. For instance, solid doors feature better insulation. They're much easier to clean compared to their glass counterparts.

Glass doors allow your customers and staff to see the contents of the restaurant freezer easily, eliminating the need to open and close the unit unnecessarily.

Freezers with half-height doors are usually more energy-efficient. Those with full height doors tend to have more storage space.

Opt For Energy-Efficient Freezers

How much do you currently spend on energy bills? At a time when electricity prices are rising, an energy-efficient refrigeration system is a requirement for any business.

Energy consumption can significantly differ from freezer to freezer. Sure, most energy-efficient models tend to cost more than the other models, but the energy savings can add up with time. Moreover, many energy-efficient commercial refrigeration systems qualify for tax breaks.

Research the Freezer Brand

Why does a commercial freezer brand matter? The fact is, there are numerous freezer manufacturers out there, but not all are trustworthy. Focus only on the brands with an excellent reputation for producing top-quality products.

So what should you look for in a brand? First of all, check their warranty and service history. Leverage the highest quality for the best price.

If you can, go for commercial freezers with the Energy Star emblem, as these are up to 30% more energy efficient than their counterparts.

Think About Reliability

When selecting a freezer for your business, reliability is key. The freezer needs to be able to keep food items cold 24 hours a day.

Commercial freezers that experience frequent failures can prove extremely costly as a result of spoilt stock and disappointed customers. Veer away from models with a reputation for unreliability, especially those with suspiciously low prices.

Of course, even the most reliable freezers require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. To minimise any risks, keep the contact details of a trustworthy repair and maintenance technician on hand.

Consider Functionality

How easy is it for your staff and customers to use the commercial freezer you're considering? Customers like freezers they can easily open and close. They need to be able to access any products with ease.

As for you and your employees, the freezer needs to have units that are easy to pack, unpack, and clean. The temperature controls of the system should be easy to access and operate.

Know About the Freezer’s Power System

The majority of commercial freezers use 115-volt power systems when freezing food items. Others use up to 230 volts for the same purpose. Why should you understand what power system a freezer uses?

Well, it's essential to choose a freezer that can provide enough power to keep all of your food items cold efficiently. If the freezer system you select cannot do so, you risk major losses in terms of spoilt stock.

Buy the Right Commercial Freezer Today

Finding the right commercial freezer is a major step when you’re setting up a food business or replacing your current refrigeration system. There are many factors that you need to consider as you go about deciding what type, size, and model of unit to buy. Paying careful attention to all of these factors can put you on the right path to making the right decision.

Are you in the market for a commercial refrigeration system for your business? We have a large variety of top-notch commercial freezers you can choose from. Contact us today or visit our website for more details.

Not only is it growing, but the food service industry is ever-changing.

As a restaurant owner, you have to keep up with the demands of customers, but you must also pay attention to kitchen trends to stay ahead of your competition.

Many commercial kitchen trends are driven by food or diet trends, so pay attention so that you can recognize fads versus phenomenons. Keep reading for an overview of the top 10 commercial kitchen trends of 2019.

1. Dealing with Waste in a Sustainable Way

Around the world, reducing food waste has been a concern for some time. Ever since Silo in Brighton Britain declared itself a"zero waste restaurant," others have been racing to follow suit.

Silo's Birtha, an aerobic digester, can condense 60 kilos of wasted food into compost in only 24 hours. Birtha digests eggshells, vegetable and fruit peelings, and even bones.

This year, restaurants are beginning to take action to demonstrate to loyal customers that they're being waste-conscious. They know that if they fail to do this, customers may go elsewhere over environmental concerns.

2. Enabling Allergy-Friendly Food Preparation

Food allergy safety is now a significant focus in the food service industry. Customers with food allergies are turning towards restaurants they trust to keep them safe.

That means commercial kitchens must be equipped to handle multiple food allergies to operate efficiently. Cross-contamination is a big issue, so numerous surfaces that can be cleaned quickly are a must. There also needs to be a staging area reserved only for allergy-friendly dishes.

3. Using Less Energy

Commercial kitchens use a lot of energy, and new technology is aimed at reducing energy consumption. Reducing our carbon footprint is good for the environment, but it also saves restaurant owners in energy costs.

More and more new equipment is being marketed as energy efficient. This year, expect to see commercial kitchens adopting warewashers and other appliances that use up to 50 percent less industry compared to older models.

4. Showing off Equipment That Delivers Style

With more restaurants offering chef tables, the "back of the house" isn't under wraps anymore. Diners want to feel like they're apart of the experience.

Showcasing your kitchen means you have to have equipment that delivers style in addition to delicious food.

One trend you should expect to see more of this year is visually appealing cooking equipment. This means ovens, fryers, and refrigerators in bright colours and unique finishes. Some of these designs will also incorporate touchscreens instead of traditional buttons and knobs.

5. Choosing Appliances That Boost Efficiency

Top restaurants are introducing appliances that boost efficiency and reduce labour.

This trend has come about because today's kitchens are shrinking. The restaurant experience is more intimate than ever before, so it makes sense that restaurants are paring down. In order to fit in the space, equipment must run smarter, smaller, and more manageable.

Equipment that consists of easy-to-learn technology and training is on-trend in 2019.

6. Introducing Multitap Water Dispensers

Multitab water dispensers are taking the food service industry by storm.

These devices allow restaurants to offer sparkling and tap water, as well as a variety of syrups and flavours. This water is delivered at various temperatures.

Multitap water dispensers are making water profitable again, and this is intriguing to most restaurant owners looking to gain revenue.

7. Switching to Automated Technology

Just like they do in every other industry, diners expect personalized, convenient service.

More and more restaurants are installing kiosks and touchscreens. Artificial intelligence (AI) is now a way of taking orders from various platforms or tableside. Guests want the ability to order and pay without interacting with servers.

Restaurants can gain a lot from this technology. As well as keeping the customers happy, automated technology allows restaurants to collect data on those dining in those establishments. With this data, they will create targeted marketing campaigns to keep their diners coming back for more.

8. Moving Towards Mobile Equipment

Don't like the layout of your commercial kitchen? 2019 says to switch it up. And then do it again.

The industry has seen a move towards flexible, movable equipment solutions. This way, your kitchen can adapt to menu changes and emerging cooking methods.

9. Incorporating Nitro Equipment

Nitrogen gas has long been associated with the food service industry, but its use in coffee beverages has increased over the past year.

While nitro equipment is familiar to the bar industry, it's just now breaking into restaurants and cafes. Nitro is currently making its way into specialty coffee drinks and desserts.

New equipment is emerging to produce smaller systems used to create nitrogenated beverages. These are easily implemented into commercial kitchens looking for an edge.

10. Using Bluetooth to Control Equipment

Bluetooth has worked itself into every other facet of our lives, why wouldn't it end up in our kitchens?

This next-level equipment gives restaurant owners the ability to synchronize activity between appliances. This technology is used in thermometers, ovens, ice machines, commercial refrigerators, and more.

Not only does this increase efficiency, but it makes cooking more accurate. It can also warn you or a vendor of equipment malfunction, saving you time and money in the long run.

Time to Update Your Commercial Kitchen?

Kitchen equipment is continually evolving, and because of this, so will your commercial kitchen design.

If you're a restaurant owner, you want to remain relevant to keep your customers happy. The best way to do this is to recognize new commercial kitchen trends as they occur.

We try to stay ahead of the next big thing in the foodservice industry, so visit our website to check out our new arrivals today!

But what is it about stainless steel that makes it such a robust, long-wearing product, perfectly suited to the culinary world? Learn more about the benefits of stainless steel in this blog.

What is Stainless Steel?

Here's a little bit of basic science for you:

Stainless steel does exactly what it says on the tin — it's a hardy form of steel that does not rust or stain over time. It's also a generic term which groups a variety of different steel types under one umbrella. 

Stainless steel, like every other kind of metal, is made from iron and carbon. But what sets stainless steel apart from the rest is its chromium and nickel alloying elements. These are the elements which create a corrosion-free product. 

Steel tends to corrode over time because iron, its primary element, reacts with the elements found in nature, namely oxygen.

However, when iron is manipulated with chromium, this creates chromium oxide. This acts as a protective surface which prevents stainless steel from rusting and deteriorating.

Benefits of Stainless Steel Cookware 

In today's world, stainless steel is still considered the best when it comes to long-lasting kitchen utensils and cookware. 

Used in both professional kitchens and households across the world, stainless steel is a product well worth the investment. Here are the undeniable benefits: 

1. Highly Durable 

Did you know that some forms of stainless steel are basically indestructible? The higher the quality of stainless steel in terms of multi-ply manufacturing, the longer it will last.

Unlike the chip coating of ''nonstick'' cookware or stain and rust issues of both enameled and cast-iron kitchenware, stainless steel is your go-to. Your stainless steel cookware will last you decades, and can even be passed down from one generation to the next. 

2. Excellent Cooking Performance

Multi-ply stainless steel cookware offers brilliant cooking ability in terms of heat absorption and heat distribution.

This means that you shouldn't have any issues cooking your meat at an uneven temperature and serving raw food in a restaurant!

Cooking with stainless steel makes for a more professionally produced product that customers expect when paying for food. 

3. Quick and Easy to Clean 

With it's non-porous, smooth surfacing, stainless steel cookware is an easy product to clean. Stainless steel is hardy enough that you can scrub away stains and debris, but keep in mind that rough sponges will leave scratches behind. 

Stainless steel pots, pans, and utensils can be soaked and thrown in the dishwasher time and time again without damage to the robust coating. This also makes for a very hygienic product. 

4. Requires Very Little Maintenance 

Stainless steel is one of those products that actually requires very little TLC over its lifetime. In fact, there really are no special cleaning or maintenance requirements for this type of cookware. On a rare occasion, you may need the right solution to help lift stubborn scorches. 

But all-in-all, stainless steel simply needs to be washed with soap, dried, and stored in order to last you a lifetime! 

5. Non-Reactive to Certain Foods 

Unlike other types of metals, stainless steel does not react to certain types of foods that are high in acids.

This means you can cook highly acidic types of recipes, such as tomato sauces and fish dishes without the risk of chemicals leaching off into your food. 

6. Lightweight and Easy to Store 

Ever tried to lift a cast-iron skillet with just one hand? Goodluck. Unlike other types of cookware, stainless steel is not weighed down and cumbersome to cook with, maneuver or store in your cupboards. 

The average weight of a stainless steel tri-ply skillet is about three pounds, which makes for far more efficient cooking on a whole. 

7. Polished, Shiny and Modern 

No matter your preferred kitchen style, stainless steel cookware will always blend in well with its polished, shiny appearance. 

In short, stainless steel just looks good. The material does not scratch, dent or fade easily and complements any home or professional kitchen for a good number of years. 

8. Highly Affordable 

As mentioned earlier, stainless steel cookware is well worth the investment based on how much use and life it offers over the years.

Price ranges for stainless steel cookware range from budget to high-end. But generally the middle-ground, affordable rates offer a decent product which could last you a decade, if not more.

9. Recyclable Material 

If you are a little more conscious about the environment and how you spend your money, you'll be happy to know that stainless steel is completely recyclable.

If you're looking to update your cookware, there's no need to feel guilt over discarding old and used stainless steel. It can be melted down and salvaged for other means!  

If you're looking to keep your stainless steel cookware in tip-top condition so it can last you a lifetime, here are a few care tips: 

• Make sure to wash your pots and pans after every use in order to avoid the build-up of stains and scorches over time.
• In order to maintain a beautiful, shiny finish, polish the outside of your cookware with a little baking soda and a synthetic scouring pad.
• Remove hardy debris with a soap and steel wool, otherwise, soak overnight and then wash with soap.    

Overall, choosing to purchase stainless steel cookware could be one of the best investments you ever make for your home or commercial kitchen. 

Looking to Invest in Hospitality Equipment? 

With the above benefits of stainless steel in mind, be sure to check out our vast range of stainless steel hospitality equipment- perfect for your business. 

Ranging from catering equipment, refrigeration, commercial furniture, stainless steel, and storage, we're you're commercial kitchen go-to. 

Browse our new arrivals here! 

Many food lovers transition from working in a restaurant to working for a catering business. In working for a catering business, you can continue to toast to your love for food but with a few added perks. Not only does a catering business often allow for better hours, but it can also be more financially stable and financially rewarding. 

If you've always dreamt of having a catering business but don't know where to start, you're going to want to read this. We're uncovering our nine essential tips for how to run a successful catering business. 

Let's get started!

1. Start with the Best Equipment 

First and foremost, it's essential to ensure that you have high-quality catering equipment. 

If you're serious about running a catering business, you have to be working with the best equipment. After all, a chef is only as good as his or her kitchen. 

Remember, this doesn't mean that you have to own all of this equipment outright. Instead, you can look into renting certain kitchen equipment as well. 

2. Discover Your Dream Kitchen

Next, it's time to locate where you're going to be spending all of your time creating: your new kitchen! 

While some caterers successfully operate out of their own kitchen, this isn't the case for all. This is especially if your company has a number of employees who require more physical space to work. 

In this event, it's best to look into renting a commercial catering kitchen. This way, you can ensure that you will be equipped with everything that you need to run your business.

You can also rest assured that these kitchens have some of the best equipment. This is anything from cooking equipment and storage to refrigeration and freezing equipment. Most commercial kitchens will allow you to rent out by the hour or by the day. 

3. Be Active on Social Media   

As with any business today, it's incredibly important to be active on social media. 

This means have a dedicated Facebook page as well as a dedicated Instagram page for your business. Once you have created your profiles, don't be shy in inviting anyone and everyone to "like" your page or to connect. 

Remember, this is where you are going to get plenty of organic leads. This can be as simple as someone stumbling upon your page, choosing to follow you and eventually hiring your services. 

Fortunately, Facebook and Instagram make it incredibly easy for your followers to connect with you. In one simple click, your follows can choose to message you and open the line of communication. 

4. Build a Website 

Sure, social media profiles are likely to generate more traffic than a company website. 

However, it's still absolutely essential for each and every business to have a dedicated website. While consumers love to peruse social media profiles for photos and videos, it's generally the website that is used as a more concrete informational source.

For example, if a consumer is looking to find a menu, prices or availability for a caterer, they are more likely to search for this information on the company website. 

5. Generate Testimonials  

In today's day and age, we are living in a world that is consumed by online testimonials. 

The fact of the matter is this: consumers look to generate trust in a business through their past reviews. In fact, 90 percent of consumers read online reviews before utilizing or visiting a business. 

When a consumer reads a series of positive reviews, this consumer is able to feel more comfortable in putting their trust into your business. With this, the thought of hiring a company in which they have never utilized before is suddenly less intimidating.  

Do your absolute best to generate a series of testimonials. You can even offer your consumers an incentive to post their opinion online. If one of your clients is happy with your services, they're not going to mind taking a few extra minutes to document their experience. 

6. Obtain Insurance

As with any business, you have to ensure that you have the correct insurance. 

While this insurance may feel like a financial burden, it's going to provide you with the peace of mind that you need. It also means that in the event of anything unfavorable happening, you're equipped with the right insurance to handle these situations. 

This means that you have certain financial protections against faults that may happen to yourself, your employees or even your clients. 

7. Network with Event Planners

If you're operating your own catering business, networking is an essential part of the business. 

After all, this is where you're going to be putting your name out there and interacting with likeminded people. Let's consider that approximately 70 percent of not actually listed for hire online. This means that connecting with others face-to-face is absolutely essential to learning about potential opportunities. 

You're especially going to want to direct your attention to event planners. Remember, these people are constantly running a number of events from weddings and parties to corporate functions and sport's events. As such, you can rest assured that they're always interested in connecting with those in the food industry. 

8. Join a Catering Association

If you live in a big city, there are going to be a large number of catering associations present in your area. 

In joining these associations, you're automatically expanding your network of potential clients. It also allows you to connect with other likeminded people and become aware of community events that may be in need of your services. 

Even if you live in a small town or a rural area, you can search for local catering associations online. 

9. Ask For Business

At the end of the day, you have to become comfortable in asking for business. 

This includes both friends and family as well as strangers. Remember, if you don't ask for someone's business, they may be unaware that you're available to help. Far too often, people are afraid to hire family and friends because they don't want to trouble that person. 

If you're worried that you're going to appear too forward, there are certain ways to make your approach more friendly and casual. One of the most simple means of doing so is to make your immediate network aware that you're always looking for more business and happy to offer a "friends and family" rate. 

How to Start a Successful Catering Business 

There's no denying that operating a successful catering business isn't exactly a walk in the park.

But, with the right tips and tricks, you're all the more likely to find success and happiness in your business. This is anything from creating a website and generating testimonials to joining an association and asking your network for business. 

So, if you're interested in starting a catering business, be sure to allow this guide to help you. If you're in need of some serious catering kitchen inspiration, be sure to browse our new arrivals!

What if we told you that you'd save money over time by adding a few rituals to your routine? Hold onto your hat because that's what we're saying.

Keep your kitchen running a break-neck speed with these restaurant kitchen equipment maintenance tips.

1. Don't Blow a Gasket

Most restaurant owners and managers are intimidated by the idea of managing kitchen equipment. They see intricate mechanics and think they have no idea how the equipment works.

In reality, sometimes the simplest parts of your equipment are the parts that are most important. Case in point: the gaskets in commercial refrigerators and freezers.

The gaskets are the rubber seals that line the edges of the door and the inside of your fridge or freezer. When those gaskets get worn or develop holes or slits, it prevents them from keeping the cold air in. That means your equipment has to work harder to maintain the set temperature, leaving it prone to a breakdown.

Grease, dirt, and debris can all wear your gaskets for quickly. To prevent damage, wipe down your gaskets every week or so. When you do, check for any cuts or other damage to the gaskets.

You can do this with a quick visual look. You can also hold your hand around the edge of the refrigerator door to see if you feel any cold air escaping.

2. Have a Boil Schedule

Unless you're a health food restaurant, chances are you have a deep fryer. One of the most important things you can do for your fryer is a full clean-out, known as a boil out.

To boil out your fryer, you'll drain the oil and scrape off as much debris and buildup off the inner sides of the fryer as possible.

Then you'll fill it with a mixture of water and detergent and boil the water. This dislodges more buildup from the sides of the fryer.

Finally, drain the water and do one last scrub before refilling it with fresh oil.

You'll want to do these cleanings at least every three months. If you're a high volume restaurant and you notice buildup sooner, you should boil out the fryer more often.

Keeping the fryer clean prevents the gunk from getting into areas it shouldn't and causing maintenance problems. It also gives your fried foods a better, more consistent taste.

3. Keep an Eye on Your Grease Filters

Your fryer isn't the only place you need to beware of grease. You should also have a grease filter in the hood above your grills, burners, and other cooking surfaces.

Those grease filters grab grease in the air that evaporates from the food you're cooking. If the filter gets too full, it blocks air from getting through into the hood. The result is a smoky and uncomfortable kitchen.

Make a point to check your filter every week or so to see how full it is. When you see more than a little buildup, it's time for a replacement.

4. Check for Gas Leaks

Chances are that at last some of your kitchen appliances run on natural gas. As great as gas is for cooking, it means you always need to be on the lookout for a leak.

There's an easy test you can do to check for a leak. Fill a spray bottle with soapy water and spray it on the gas lines in any gas-powered appliances. If a bubble forms, it means there's a leak and you need emergency service.

Do this test every few weeks to make sure everything is safe. However, if you ever smell gas, you need to call your gas company right away even if you don't see bubbles.

5. Keep It Coil

When it comes to keeping your freezers and refrigerators in working order, the condenser coils and evaporator coils are key.

These coils have a tendency to get dusty. When there's too much dust, though, those coils can develop problems.

The solution is to clean your condenser coil and evaporator coil on each fridge or freezer. All you need is a vacuum, a brush, and a few minutes of your time.

It's best to do this every three months. If you notice a lot of dust buildup on the grill under your refrigerator, though, it may mean it's time for another cleaning.

6. Track Your Temps

Everyone who works in a kitchen knows the importance of accurate temperatures. The right temperature in your freezers and refrigerators will keep food safe. The right temperatures in your ovens will make sure food cooks the way it should.

Most restaurant kitchen equipment has a built-in thermometer for convenience. Don't take that reading at its word, though.

For your refrigeration equipment, measure the temperatures manually every day. Compare these to the reading on the equipment itself and record it each day.

This allows you to notice trends. If your commercial freezer or refrigerator is getting warmer little by little, it may point to a building problem. This lets you call someone for service before the appliance breaks down entirely.

Your oven isn't as crucial, but you should take the temperature every week or two. If you notice that it differs from the oven's own temperature reading, it's time to calibrate the thermometer.

Making Your Restaurant Kitchen Equipment Last

As you'll notice, most of the tips above involve simple additions to your regular cleaning routine. They don't take much time but they can save you thousands in the long run.

The most important thing you need to do is to have and maintain a regular cleaning schedule. You'd be surprised how often a manager assumes their chef oversees the kitchen maintenance and the chef assumes the opposite.

Come up with a written cleaning and maintenance schedule for your restaurant kitchen equipment. Make sure your staff knows who's responsible for it and tracks their tasks each day.

To start fresh with new equipment for your kitchen, check out our latest commercial kitchen appliances today.

1. The Best Commercial Refrigerators Will Have Recessed Handles

While this may seem like a minor issue, choosing a refrigerator with recessed door handles makes quite a difference. If you were thinking of buying a fridge with a barred door handle, think again.

Consider how many times per day you and your staff will need to open and close the refrigerator. Barred handles are prone to loosening or breaking off with repeated use. You could need to repair your commercial refrigerator much sooner than you think.

Recessed Door handles will not break because they are incorporated right into the refrigerator door itself. They also help ensure you have an ergonomic way to open and close the door while helping to avoid accumulating dust and dirt.

2. Make Sure That the Warranty Has You Covered

Even with the most reliable brand of refrigerator, you will need to have your unit repaired or service eventually. If and when you need to call in the professionals, you should make sure that your warranty will provide swift service and no additional costs.

You need to make sure that any repairs will be covered and taken care of by professionals. To ensure good results, you should make sure to check what each manufacturer's warrant will cover and for how long. Thankfully, the commercial refrigerator industry provides some of the best warranties available, including parts and labor with up to three years of coverage.

Reputable manufacturers also have large networks of skilled workers. These repair professionals will get your commercial refrigerator up and running as soon as possible.

3. Look for a Bottom Mount Condenser Unit

If you are looking to buy the best commercial refrigerator, you want to make sure that you are getting your money's worth. Your refrigerator should be as ergonomic as possible for you and your employee's needs. With that in mind, you should consider purchasing a unit with a bottom mount condensing unit, rail mounted for your convenience.

Having your condenser unit mounted on the bottom will make cleaning and maintenance much easier. No one will have to climb a ladder and put themselves at risk.

Additionally, bottom mounted condensers will give you extra storage space on top of the refrigerator. This is very useful in a cramped kitchen.

4. Heavy Duty Foam-In-Place Insulation Is a Must

While this feature is not visible to the naked eye, you should buy a fridge with high-quality foam insulation. Doing so will make a massive difference in food storage and quality.

For clarification, Foam-In-Place means that the refrigerator's insulation has been sprayed into the sides and doors from top to bottom. Spray foaming a refrigerator creates a complete seal for the whole unit. This technique creates greater energy efficiency and keeps food fresh for longer periods.

Cheaper refrigerators rely on solid blocks of foam which are cut and fit into the unit. The seal created is not airtight and will cause a higher electricity bill for your kitchen.

When you buy a commercial refrigerator, make sure that that the foam is a premium brand of insulation, such as Ecomate. You should also check that the thickness of the foam is at least two inches for the greatest efficiency.

5. Buy a Commercial Refrigerator That Is Completely Stainless Steel

Regardless of the food business, you are buying your commercial refrigerator for, you should be aware of the phrase, "You get what you pay for." One of your first concerns should be that your refrigerator is only as good as the materials that make up its construction. For this reason, you should consider only buying a commercial refrigerator that uses stainless steel for everything.

Plastic interiors are the cheapest and most common option, but plastic can crack and break within a couple of years. Providing a midpoint in price between plastic and steel, aluminum is far less strong or durable than stainless steel.

Aluminum is also far easier to scratch than stainless steel. This makes your commercial refrigerator less sanitary and much harder to clean.

Any money that you may save by compromising on aluminum or plastic will go towards repairs and maintenance. This will cost you more money in the long run.
Stainless steel is by far the best material for your commercial refrigerator. To make sure that your money isn't wasted, look for a thick gage refrigerator that is stainless steel from top to bottom.

6. Buy a Commercial Refrigerator with a Digital Temperature Control Unit

When working with foodstuffs that are prone to spoiling, it can be difficult to ensure that your commercial refrigerator is keeping everything at the correct temperature. With a digital temperature control unit, you can ensure that you have complete control over your whole refrigerator.

With a digital display and the ability to control the temperature in single degree increments, you can rest assured that your food will be properly stored at all times. You won't have to worry or guess what your refrigerator's temperature settings are set at, allowing you to store your food with the greatest efficiency.

7. Welded Corners and Standard Necessary Features

One of the best signs of a high-quality commercial refrigerator is whether your stainless steel fridge has welded corners. Refrigerator corners are where your clothes will get caught, where dust will collect and where wear and are often the weakest part of the unit. When you see a commercial refrigerator without welded corners, you should consider not purchasing it.

You should also make sure that your refrigerator has interior lighting, wheeled castors for easy movement and can be locked for security purposes. If the model you're looking at doesn't include these standard commercial features, avoid it and move on.

Buying The Best Commercial Refrigerator Is Easier Than You Think

Picking the right unit can be difficult with the sheer number of commercial refrigerators available on the market. With our seven helpful tips, buying your next commercial refrigerator will be a walk in the park.

To get the best deal, check out our showroom clearance sale today!