Important Questions to Ask Before You Purchase Restaurant Equipment: Insights from a Restaurant Kitchen Equipment Supplier in Arlington Heights, Illinois

September 24th, 2024

Running a restaurant involves making a lot of tough choices. You’ll need to decide what food to serve, then you’ll need to assemble a team that will help you cook and serve it. But one of the most important choices that sometimes gets overlooked is choosing the right kitchen equipment. Below, this kitchen equipment supplier in Arlington Heights, Illinois is going to explore some of the most important questions you should think about before investing in any equipment for your commercial kitchen.

What do you really need?

When you are buying kitchen equipment for your restaurant, the first thing you should do is consider what you need. Your menu will be your biggest guide. For example, if you want to start a pizza place, you will need a really good baking oven and other baking equipment. And if you are opening a café, you will need reliable coffee machines, refrigeration, etc. 

You should also think about the future. If you plan to expand your menu or increase seating capacity in the future, you should buy equipment that can adapt to your growing business. As one of the most experienced kitchen equipment suppliers in Arlington Heights, Illinois, we often see restaurant owners who buy smaller or more basic equipment at first, only to find out a few months later that they have outgrown it. Fortunately, this is something we can help you avoid.

How much space do you have?

Once you know what you need for your kitchen, the next step is to decide where you will put everything. In a busy restaurant kitchen, space is always at a premium — and you want to make sure everything fits together nicely.

Take detailed measurements of your kitchen space and consider factors like ventilation and accessibility. For example, if you need a vent hood, you have to know how big your equipment can be to fit under it. These details are very important for making sure your kitchen runs as efficiently as possible. Your kitchen equipment supplier in Arlington Heights, Illinois may recommend bringing your kitchen plans along with you so they can help you decide on the ideal layout. 

Do you need gas or electric equipment?

Choosing between gas and electric appliances sounds easy, but it is easy to overlook the specific requirements for each piece of equipment. If you choose electric appliances, you have to make sure your kitchen can provide the right amount of electricity — like the correct voltage and amps. If you choose gas appliances, you need to check that you have the right connections and enough gas supply to power everything during peak hours. Getting this wrong can lead to expensive problems, like rewiring or installing new gas lines. 

What’s your budget?

Restaurant equipment can cost a lot, so you want to make sure you are getting the most value for your money. When setting your budget, consider both how much money you will need to spend at first and the long-term expenses. Some equipment might be cheaper at first but could cost you more in maintenance, repairs, or energy bills over time.

Are you trying to save money and only want something that works, or are you willing to spend more for heavy-duty, high-efficiency equipment that will last a long time? Finding a good balance will help you make smart choices for your restaurant.

Looking for a Kitchen Equipment Supplier in Arlington Heights, Illinois?

Are you ready to invest in used, high-quality restaurant equipment? Looking for the top-rated used kitchen equipment supplier in Arlington Heights, Illinois? If so, you’ve come to the right place — March Quality New and Pre-Owned Foodservice Equipment is the place to visit. We offer excellent pre-owned and refurbished kitchen equipment that will meet your needs and perform like new. Contact us today at (630) 627-3031 to discuss your options.

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