Essential Factors to Consider When You Buy Restaurant Equipment

Finding the right equipment for your commercial kitchen and restaurant needs is the most paramount to your overall success. Whether it’s making sure all the equipment is up to code and functioning properly or providing you and your staff with the most reliable materials for the job, we’ve compiled this handy reference guide to the essential factors to consider when buying restaurant equipment.

Keeping Your Business Up To Code

The main thing you want to keep in mind is that you must comply with specific regulations to keep your restaurant running. These regulations are based on location, so check with your local health inspection and restaurant laws to ensure you are following the mandates set forth.

 

  • Check with your local government to find out what health codes to follow

  • Follow FDA guidelines and OSHA policies when purchasing equipment

Be Mindful of the Kitchen Space and Layout

The adage says to measure twice and cut once, and the same is true for finding the right equipment for your space, although in this case, no cutting is required. The phrase stands, however, as you should always double-check your measurements before committing to large and expensive fridges, tables, and other required materials to help your kitchen process.

 

Your kitchen processes may also inform the type of appliances you need. If you require more room but don’t have a lot of square footage, you may have to sacrifice large equipment for smaller table areas. Seeing the space may help you decide, so sketch on paper or hire a designer to help you. Going into the buying process with a clear vision in mind will help tremendously.

Finding the Right Equipment Retailer For Your Needs

Commercial kitchens are a high-stake and high-stress environment that depends on your equipment running smoothly. The equipment you choose plays a vital part in how successful your overall operation runs. It’s always a good idea to read reviews and ask around to see what other users are saying when it comes to reliable and efficient kitchen equipment.

 

Some retailers have specific technicians required to work on your equipment when it breaks down, while others don’t mind if you outsource that work to a local maintenance company. Some companies are much more expensive, so your start-up costs will be high, but they last longer than cheaper competitors whose equipment breaks down more frequently.

 

  • Ask for reviews and compare companies with similar products to find the best deal.

  • Read equipment warranties to ensure you are getting the most for your dollar.

Keeping Costs Low

Starting a new restaurant can be a costly endeavor. Some entrepreneurs take out massive loans to keep up with rising bills. When adding large appliances to your list, do a cost analysis first to see what materials are important. Keeping costs low can help cut out unnecessary things. When the business starts expanding, you can reallocate funds to purchase more equipment needed for growth.

 

Another way to keep costs low is to source equipment that is energy efficient. Most large commercial appliances have energy star ratings that help you decide what equipment you need that will aid in saving money from less energy usage and reducing the amount of your carbon footprint.

Making Sure the Equipment is Easy to Use

Finally, when buying restaurant equipment, you want to ensure that the chef and kitchen staff can easily use it. Larger retailers often have better reviews for equipment that doesn’t complicate things but instead aids the cooking and serving process. Your head chef may already have a list of preferred companies they like using, so be sure to include them in the decision-making process.

Essential Things to Remember When You Buy Restaurant Equipment

Whether you are limited in space or on a tight budget, it is important to remember these key tips when buying restaurant equipment and appliances. Rely on your staff and colleagues in the industry for reviews and recommendations to choose the right equipment for your needs. From keeping up the regulatory practices in your kitchen to purchasing energy-saving equipment, you can be sure you have all the information you need to make your restaurant a success.