Are Combi Ovens Worth the Investment?
For many hospitality businesses, the answer is “Yes” since combi ovens can provide many benefits. For one thing, they can replace several appliances in commercial kitchens since they are designed to have multiple functions (i.e., steaming, convection cooking, and combination cooking). When set to lower temperatures, they can even function as a slow cooker, holding cabinet, and proofing oven. By investing in a combi oven, you’ll spend less on kitchen appliances while saving on precious floor space and reducing the clutter in your commercial kitchen.
Of course, it’s not just about saving space and money. Combi ovens allow you to accurately control the temperature at which your food is cooked, which means you can retain the right amount of moisture and preserve important flavors, textures, and nutrients. This lets you create high-quality dishes that will impress your customers and make your business stand out.
How Can I Choose the Right Combi Oven for My Hospitality Business?
When looking for a combi oven, you should consider the size that will accommodate your business’s daily food volume output. Combi ovens can range from small, compact units that can accommodate up to five pans to tall, full-size floor models that have at least 20 shelves and can accommodate 20 GN 2/1 Trays or 40 GN 1/1 Trays. You also have to choose between electric combi oven (which are generally less expensive) and their gas-powered counterparts (which are often more energy-efficient).
What Changes Do I Need to Make to My Kitchen When Buying a Combi Oven?
Since combi ovens emit steam, they usually have to be installed with an exhaust hood. Read up on your local building and business codes or reach out to code authorities in your area to know the specific rules and regulations that you must comply with. You might be required to install standard exhaust ducting, although some areas might require fire-rated grease ducting.
It’s important to note that more modern combi ovens are built with ventless hoods. This means that they don’t need necessarily have to be attached to standard ducting and that you can place them anywhere in your commercial kitchen.
How Often Should My Combi Oven Be Maintained?
It’s recommended to have combi ovens professionally serviced every six months. Aside from having the unit regularly serviced, you must also check that the drain screen is always placed and clean and lubricate the door seals to ensure that they always provide a strong and secure seal. Combi ovens are often connected to a water filtration system to prevent mineral deposit build up in the water lines, so you should remember to replace the water in the filtration system every three to six months.