10 Tips For Purchasing Equipment

10 Tips for Purchasing Restaurant Equipment

Restaurant kitchen equipment can total up to a rather hefty amount so you need to be certain that you have chosen the right pieces of equipment to suit your needs. Here are 10 general tips to help you make the right decisions before you make your purchases.

1. Buy commercial equipment and not domestic. Commercial products are more durable and can be maintained at a high sanitary level. Domestic appliances will struggle to cope with the pressure of a commercial kitchen.
2. New equipment. Used equipment may come with a small price tag but are more likely to break down and lead to costly repairs. New equipment will come with a guarantee or warranty to give you that little extra piece of mind.
3. Quality will cost. The better the quality and materials of the product the higher the price tag. Deciding your maximum price limit and finding the best quality and suitability to your needs for that money is always the preferred route.
4. Stick to your budget. It is tempting to pay a little extra than you can realistically afford to get slightly better quality, however if you do this with every item of equipment you will find a huge hole in your bank account very quickly.
5. Research is the key. You will need to determine what capacities you will need for refrigeration, cooking, storage etc. Finding a product that can perform multiple functions will always be cost-effective e.g. combination ovens.
6. Utility types. Always be sure to check that you are able to power your chosen piece of equipment. If you need an electric powered piece of equipment it would be pointless to order something powered by gas.
7. Measure space available. Accurate measurements will allow you to make the most of the available space. It will also help your design and layout and ultimately will guide what equipment you will need to order.
8. Saving money by going green. Choosing ‘green’ equipment may be pricier to buy initially but will be cheaper to run day to day. Any extra costs incurred in the purchase price will soon be redeemed within a short amount of tie.
9. Warranty. Different companies may offer differing warranties. If you are undecided and the specifications and quality are similar, the warranty may be the deciding factor.
10. Never sign for an item without inspecting it first. You may find that a product may occasionally arrive with you damaged or faulty. Any structural marks or dents will usually be due to rough handling by the delivery company. If you sign for a delivery without inspecting the equipment and you later find that there is damage you will be liable. Until you have signed for the product it is the responsibility of the delivery company.