A well-equipped commercial kitchen is vital for any catering business. Choosing high-quality, functional, and durable equipment can greatly impact your company’s efficiency, safety, and productivity. One of the top choices for commercial kitchen equipment is stainless steel. This article will discuss what to consider when investing in stainless steel catering equipment, focusing on four key products: stainless steel canopies, shelving, sinks, and tables.

Stainless Steel Canopies

Stainless steel canopies, serving as the lynchpin of a kitchen ventilation system, are necessary investments to optimize the working conditions in a commercial kitchen. Effective ventilation protects staff from excessive heat and reduces fire risk by removing airborne grease, smoke, and odours.

In your investment journey, here are key features to look for in stainless steel canopies:

Size and Design: Your canopy should fit snugly within your kitchen dimensions. A professional site survey will inform the precise size one should invest in.
Ventilation Quality: High-quality and efficient fans are non-negotiable for superior ventilation. Noise level is an additional factor you may want to consider.
Filters: Grease filters are essential in canopies to catch and remove airborne grease. Look for easy-to-remove and clean filters to save yourself time and effort.
Construction: A high grade of stainless steel ensures longevity, resilience, and maintainability. Look for Grade 304 stainless steel which is more resistant to corrosion and rust.
Ease of Cleaning: A canopy with an efficient, built-in cleaning system adds convenience and saves time.
Compliance: Your canopy should comply with local health and safety regulations to avoid future issues.

Keep these features in mind as your guide when investing in a stainless steel canopy for a commercial kitchen.

Stainless Steel Shelving

Stainless steel shelving units are paramount in every commercial kitchen. They serve as the backbone for storage and help maintain an organized and efficient kitchen space.

When shopping for stainless steel shelving, there are certain considerations you need to keep in mind:

Steel Grade: The durability and corrosion resistance of your unit heavily depend on the thickness or grade of steel. High-grade steel like 304 indicates higher durability and resistance to corrosion.
Size and Load Capacity: The size of the shelving unit has to match the available space in your kitchen. Common dimensions for commercial use may range from 600mm to 1800mm in width, and the depth usually varies from 300mm to 600mm.. Additionally, assessing the weight-bearing limit of the shelving is crucial, especially if heavy-duty storage is in the plan.
Ease of Cleaning: Stainless steel is commonly known for its simple cleaning process, but the design of shelves can influence this. Opt for units with easy-to-access and -clean surface areas.
Shelf Type: It’s also essential to consider the type of shelving suitable for your needs. Solid shelving is best for dry storage and when varying sizes of items need storing. Conversely, louvered shelving, with its slotted design, allows for better air circulation, making it great for refrigerated storage.

Each functional area in the commercial kitchen might need a specialized type of stainless steel shelf – from food storage, walk-in coolers, to warehousing. Hence, understanding usage-specific needs will guide your decision to choose the right stainless steel shelving unit.

Commercial Stainless Steel Sinks

Stainless steel sinks are crucial in every commercial kitchen owing to their cleanliness, durability, and long-lasting properties. Here are a few considerations for commercial stainless steel sinks:

Dimensions

Commercial sink measurements can vary greatly depending on the model and style, usually comprising larger dimensions than residential sinks for maximum functionality. They can range from 450mm to 1800mm in length, 400mm to 700mm in width, and commonly with a depth of around 300mm to 400mm.

Types of Sinks

Below are popular types of commercial stainless steel sinks you might want to consider:

Hand Wash Sinks: Required by health codes in most areas, they are typically smaller and shallower to accommodate quick, frequent washing tasks.
Three Compartment Sinks: Obligatory in most commercial kitchens, these sinks allow for a multi-step dishwashing system: washing, rinsing, and sanitizing.
Utility Sinks (also known as mop sinks): Deep and sturdy, these are used for heavy duty cleaning tasks, such as filling and emptying large pots or cleaning mop.
Prep Sinks: These are used for prepping ingredients, washing vegetables, thawing food, and other similar tasks.

Sinks Taps and Faucets

There are many types of taps and faucets designed for commercial kitchens. Here are a few:

Swing Nozzle Faucets: These faucets have large, tall nozzles capable of swinging from one compartment of a sink to another.
Gooseneck Faucets: These are designed to provide ample space underneath the faucet, allowing for easy filling of large pots.
Single hole, Deck-Mounted Faucets: These are mounted directly onto the sink deck and make for easy installation and maintenance.
Widespread Faucets: These require three hole installations, with the handles and spout each puncturing the sink or countertop separately.

When considering an investment in commercial stainless steel sinks, be sure to assess their intended use, the available space, and the type of tap that would best serve your establishment’s needs.

Stainless Steel Tables

Stainless steel tables are a fundamental part of commercial kitchens, known for their use in food preparation, plating, and general utility. Their features like durability, hygienic surface, ease of maintenance, and potential for built-in storage make them a staple for commercial kitchens.

Key Considerations

When making a purchase of a stainless steel table, important factors to account for include:

Size: Your provided kitchen measurements will determine the size of the table. The most common dimensions for stainless steel tables range from 600mm to 2400mm in length, 600mm to 900mm in width, and usually have a standard height of around 850mm. Remember to leave enough space for staff to easily move and work around the table.
Durability: The grade and weight of the steel affect the table’s durability and resistance to damage. The recommended grade for commercial kitchens is 304 due to its high resistance to corrosion.
Maintenance: Stainless steel is typically easy to clean and sanitize, but the design of the table can affect this. Choose a table with a design that doesn’t have hard-to-reach spots where food and dirt could hide.
Storage: Depending on your need, you might want a table with built-in shelving facilities. Under-shelf or storage cabinet types are the most common options for additional storage.
Edges and Finishes: For safety purposes, go for tables with rounded corners and edges. As for the finish, brushed or satin finishes hide scratches better than a mirrored finish.

Other Features

Additional features can also be considered based on specific needs:

Backsplash: A good idea if the table is against a wall or used for food prep; it prevents food from staining the wall and eases the cleaning process.
Wheels or Casters: If you need mobility or flexibility in your kitchen layout, consider a table with wheels. Ensure they are lockable for safety.
Drawers: Some models come with built-in drawers for extra storage and convenience.

Investing in a stainless steel table for your commercial kitchen involves careful consideration of your specific needs, available space, and everyday operations.

Summing Up

Wise investments in stainless steel catering equipment can elevate performance and aesthetics in your commercial kitchen and, in turn, your overall business operations. Choose wisely, taking into account the size and needs of your operation, and the quality of the products on offer. Remember, investing in high-quality caterings equipment from the start can save you costly repairs or replacements down the road.