Your Guide to Commercial Oven Care

Published: 17 Aug 2023

Practical advise on maintaining your commercial oven.

The commercial oven is the powerhouse of your kitchen, enduring rigorous use daily. Its maintenance and care can make all the difference between a well-performing oven and one that poses a fire hazard or compromises your food’s taste. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to keep your commercial oven in top shape, from common issues to crucial maintenance steps.

Jump to a topic:

• Common Commercial Oven Issues
• Crumb Trays
• Cleaning Schedules
• Say No to Abrasive Cleaners
• Essential Maintenance Steps
• FAQ

Understanding Common Commercial Oven Issues

Several potential problems can plague commercial ovens. These include:

• Uneven temperatures or poor heating: Caused by issues like a malfunctioning heating element, a faulty thermostat, or a clogged vent.
• Door issues: Damage to the door gasket or hinges may result in heat leakage or difficulty closing.
• Burner or heating element problems: These components may become clogged with food debris, affecting performance or causing malfunctions.
• Control panel issues: Damages or malfunctions to the control panel can disrupt temperature settings.
• Electrical issues: Problems with the power supply or wiring can interfere with oven operation.

It’s essential to address any problems with your commercial oven immediately. A qualified professional can ensure proper checks and repairs, as continued usage of a malfunctioning oven can lead to further damage and potential hazards.

The Importance of Emptying Crumb Trays

Crumb accumulation is an inevitable part of any commercial kitchen operation. Left unchecked, these seemingly harmless crumbs can have a nasty effect on food taste, cause smoke, or even start fires. Here’s a guide to emptying a crumb tray in a commercial oven:

1. Locate the crumb tray: Usually found at the bottom of the oven, either under the door or behind a panel.
2. Remove the crumb tray: Some trays can be pulled out easily, while others may require more effort.
3. Empty the crumb tray: Carefully dispose of the accumulated debris or crumbs.
4. Clean the crumb tray: Use a soft cloth or sponge and mild detergent to wipe down the tray, followed by thorough drying.
5. Replace the crumb tray: Once clean and dry, slide the crumb tray back into its original place.

Stay on Top with a Regular Cleaning Schedule

Keeping your kitchen sparkling clean is not just about aesthetics; it directly impacts your food’s quality and safety. A defined cleaning schedule helps ensure consistency and prevents tasks from being overlooked. In addition to your team’s regular cleaning, consider booking a technician for routine servicing. This preventative measure allows for early detection and rectification of unseen issues, providing peace of mind during your busiest services.

Cleaning Your Oven: Say No to Abrasive Cleaners

In a commercial kitchen, the challenge of removing stubborn grease and burnt food particles might make you reach for the most potent cleaning products available. However, when it comes to your commercial oven, it’s important to avoid abrasive cleaners. Here’s why.

Potential Damage to Surfaces

Commercial ovens are often made of materials like stainless steel, which can be sensitive to harsh cleaning products and tools. Abrasive cleaners, which include substances like scouring powders, steel wool, and metal scrub brushes, can scratch and dull the surface of your oven. These scratches not only affect the oven’s appearance but can also become areas where grease and food particles accumulate, leading to more cleaning challenges in the future.

Corrosion Risk

Many abrasive cleaners contain strong chemicals designed to break down tough stains. While these might be effective in removing grime, they can also cause corrosion over time, especially if they’re not thoroughly rinsed off. Corrosion can weaken the structural integrity of the oven parts, leading to further damage and potential safety risks.

Impact on Taste and Odor

When abrasive cleaners are used and not completely rinsed off, they can leave behind residues that may impact the taste and smell of food. This is especially critical in a commercial kitchen where consistent flavour and aroma are essential for customer satisfaction.

Health and Safety Concerns

Abrasive cleaners often contain chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or if they come into contact with skin. Regular use of such cleaners without proper safety measures can pose health risks for your kitchen staff.

So, what should you use instead? Opt for non-abrasive cleaners specifically designed for commercial ovens. These products are formulated to effectively remove grease and food debris without causing damage. Pair these with soft cleaning tools, like cloths or soft nylon brushes, which can clean effectively without scratching the oven surfaces. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these products to ensure the best results and longevity of your oven.

Remember, regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent the build-up of stubborn stains, making it less likely that you’ll need to resort to harsh cleaning methods. Ultimately, taking care of your commercial oven is an investment in the efficiency of your kitchen and the quality of your food.

About the author

Trades Team are your experts in catering equipment repair and maintenance services. We provide first class support to the foodservice industry across Essex, Suffolk, Kent and Greater London.