To save yourself time and sometimes a lot of money, check the following suggestions before calling for service.

1.    Check your owners manual.     Many problems can be solved by reading about how the manufacturer designed the equipment. Call your local authorized service agency. They will be glad to talk you through troubleshooting.

2.    Check your power source.     If there's no power, the equipment wont work. Many call are made because something is un-plugged, the night crew flipped the wrong breaker, or the gas hose is not connected properly.

3.    Always disconnect power (steam, gas, electric) before proceeding.    It's better to be safe than sorry.

4.    Look for the obvious.     Smell for burning odors and look for loose connections. (gas hoses, power cords)

5.    Keep equipment clean.     Simply keeping it clean will save you many unnecessary calls. Poor up-keep is a major cause of equipment (component) failure.

6.    Use equipment as intended.     Avoid overusing or overworking the equipment. Make sure you purchase the right equipment for the job. It happens every day, complaints about equipment being used for something it wasn't intended for. Consult with a professional rep and or dealer when purchasing equipment.

7.    Make an equipment record.     Keeping a record of your equipment model and serial numbers handy will save you time and effort when needing to place an order for parts or service. Go to kitchen equipment record to print an easy to use form just for this purpose. Keep it near your phone.

See the Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA) web site at www.cfesa.com to find a list of authorized service agencies in your area.

Last edited: 02/17/04