TigerChef

For those of you just starting up, it seems simple. Find the piece that meets your specifications, pay for it, and you're done. Easy enough, huh? Not so fast. Many people have invested tens of thousands of dollars in equipment and installation, only to find out that it doesn't pass inspection. We put together a list of all you need to know BEFORE you purchase your equipment. If you follow our instructions below, you shouldn't have a problem passing inspection.

• Before purchasing anything, speak to the local fire department and health inspector. They will be able to tell you all you need to know about restrictions in your kitchen. They may even be able to give you a list of specs that you can compare with before purchasing.

• Stay away from used equipment. You never know who used it before and what happened with it when they did. The extra money you pay for a new item is worth the peace of mind and will avoid potential problems.

• In order to pass inspection, every piece of equipment you purchase for a commercial kitchen needs to have an NSF sticker. This is a small blue sticker that is found on every piece of equipment. Make sure it's authentic and not a duplicate before purchasing. Without an NSF sticker, you won't pass inspection and may be fined.

• If you are purchasing from a dealer that is not well known, be sure to check very carefully. The few dollars you save by going to a smaller company may cost you big bucks later on.

• Before purchasing equipment have your electrician and plumber come down to let you know what the kitchen can accommodate. You don't want to purchase equipment and then have to redo the whole structure of the kitchen.

• Always check your city's codes and zoning laws before purchasing equipment and opening your store. The best way to go is to speak to your city health inspector. As each state and city is different, there is no "guideline book" that you can follow. You will need to get in touch with the inspectors directly. He will tell you everything you need to know.

• Never purchase a piece of equipment without extensive research. Be sure to make sure it fits your needs and safety before buying it. Remember - once you buy it, you probably can't return it, so it's critical that you do the research BEFORE.

Good luck! Any questions? Click here to email one of our certified design specialists.

Filed under: How-To • General • Resource Central • Cost Savings

Tags: equipment