As summer winds down and the school year approaches, kitchens in schools, universities, and food service facilities are about to go from quiet to bustling. The back-to-school season means higher demand, tighter schedules, and zero room for equipment downtime. Ensuring your kitchen is ready for the fall rush isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about proactive maintenance that can keep your team efficient and your equipment reliable.
Start with a Comprehensive Equipment Check
Before the first lunch rush or campus event, schedule a full inspection of all major appliances—ranges, ovens, griddles, refrigeration, and dish machines. A trained service technician can spot early signs of wear that your staff might miss, such as frayed wiring, loose gaskets, or small refrigerant leaks. These issues can quickly escalate into major problems once your kitchen is operating at full capacity.
Prioritize High-Demand Equipment
Certain items—like your walk-in coolers, combi ovens, and dishwashers will see more action during the school year. Cleaning condenser coils, calibrating thermostats, replacing worn door seals, and checking water filtration systems should be on your pre-season checklist.
Deep Clean for Health and Efficiency
Grease buildup, limescale, and food debris don’t just affect hygiene—they reduce performance and efficiency. Have your kitchen’s hoods, filters, and ventilation systems professionally cleaned to improve airflow and reduce fire risk. For cooking equipment, descale steamers, flush fryer oil systems, and ensure ovens are free of carbon buildup.
Update Staff Training
Even the best-maintained kitchen can fail without proper operation. Refresh your team’s knowledge on correct startup, shutdown, and cleaning procedures for every major appliance. This not only extends equipment life but also ensures safety and consistent performance.
Planned Maintenance
Joe Warren & Sons offers seasonal PM programs that catch problems before they cause downtime. With fall schedules busier than ever, planned maintenance is the best insurance policy for your operation’s success.
Have a question? Contact our team today.
