Used Restaurant Equipment: A Buyer’s Guide

Opening a new restaurant can be an expensive undertaking. One way to cut costs and make your restaurant look great is to buy used restaurant equipment. This buyer’s guide will help you determine what types of used restaurant equipment are available, how much they cost and reputable online sources to buy them.

Types of Used Restaurant Equipment

When sourcing used restaurant equipment, it’s essential to understand the different types of equipment available. Some of the equipment you need are explained here:

a) Refrigeration: This equipment keeps food cold and does include freezers, coolers, and ice machines. Refrigeration units have various capacities and can be designed for specific purposes, such as storing raw meat or dairy products.

b) Cooking Equipment: This includes ovens, griddles, and fryers which are all used to cook food. These machines typically come in various sizes and styles, some designed for specific cooking tasks or foods. Natural Gas powered equipment are often less costly to maintain and are more efficient to operate.

c) Food Preparation Equipment: This includes slicers, prep coolers, choppers, blenders, and mixers to prepare ingredients before they’re cooked. These items come with various options and budget priced items are available.

d) Dishwashing Equipment: These units are used to clean and sanitize dishes, glasses, and utensils. This includes under-counter dishwashers, commercial sink units, and racks for storing dishes. Low temp and high temp options are available. Under counter units are great if you need a low volume solution, pass through units are for bigger volume locations.

e) Serving Equipment: This equipment is used to keep food organized and warm before it’s served. Examples include steam tables, buffet stations, hot wells, and heated trays. You can find inserts that slip into a countertop that is custom built, or find free standing options.

f) Bar Equipment: This includes supplies used to make drinks, such as ice makers, bottle coolers, blenders, and soda dispensers.

g) Furniture: To accommodate the seating of customers restaurants need tables, chairs, barstools and booths. Booths are often more comfortable and can accommodate larger people. Tables are handy for families who have children in seats. Be mindful of the seating weight capacity of the chairs you have, and that they won’t disappoint a loyal customer.

What Should You Check While Buying Restaurant Equipment?

When buying used equipment for sale, it is essential to scrutinize the item. Here are some tips for choosing the best items for your restaurant:

a) Check the condition of the equipment. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as dents, cracks, or rust on the surface. Ensure that electrical connections are correctly plugged in, and look for any exposed wires which can be dangerous. Ask to test the item and then also ask for a short window to return the item in case there are issues after the sale.

b) Test the functionality of each item before you leave with the item, if possible. If this is not possible, test the item once you have gotten it home.

c) If an item is sold as refurbished, ask about the refurbishment process the dealer used. Ensure all safety standards are met, and the item is suitable for use in a commercial kitchen. For example, equipment like a stainless steel table should have a smooth, polished surface free of cracks or dents.

e) Read reviews from other customers or get feedback from a trusted source before purchasing. This can help you determine if the business is a fit for your needs..

How To Determine the Cost of Used Restaurant Equipment?

Once you have found the used restaurant equipment that meets your needs, it’s time to determine its cost. Restaurant equipment such as ovens, dishwashers, ranges, and refrigerators have different features. Make sure you check the features of the equipment before deciding on a price. Some features that may affect cost include energy efficiency ratings, cooking speed, and special functions.

For example, a dishwasher with an energy-efficient rating and quick cycle times may cost more than one without this feature.

Another factor to consider is whether or not the equipment comes with any warranties or guarantees. If it does, read all the details closely and compare them against other offers.

In Closing.

Cardinal Selling Services offers the best used restaurant equipment in the industry. With their knowledgeable staff, competitive prices, and a vast selection of quality used products, you can rest assured that your used restaurant equipment purchase will be a wise investment.

Cardinal sources top sellers across the nation. Some of those sellers are entities who refurbish their equipment items. Cardinal also works with clients with high value items they are looking for the best return when selling, often large corporate chains, hotels and resorts.