10 Common Commercial Kitchen Equipment Issues (And How to Fix Them)

Running a commercial kitchen is no small feat. While high-performance kitchen equipment is essential for efficiency and food quality, it’s also prone to breakdowns due to heavy use. Knowing how to identify and resolve common issues can save time, reduce downtime, and extend the life of your investment.

Whether you operate a restaurant, café, or catering business, here are the 10 most common commercial kitchen equipment issues and how to fix them—without disrupting your daily operations.

1. Refrigeration Units Not Cooling Properly

Problem:

Refrigerators and freezers failing to maintain temperature can spoil food and violate health codes.

Causes:

• Dirty condenser coils

• Faulty thermostat

• Damaged door gaskets

Fix:

Clean the coils monthly and inspect door seals regularly. If the problem persists, check the thermostat and replace if needed. For businesses sourcing Dubai kitchen equipment, always choose models with energy-efficient features and easy maintenance access.

2. Grease Build-Up in Ventilation Hoods

Problem:

Excessive grease in exhaust hoods can reduce airflow, trigger fire hazards, and lead to unpleasant odors.

Causes:

• Irregular cleaning schedule

• Ineffective grease filters

Fix:

Establish a cleaning schedule that includes weekly degreasing and quarterly professional cleaning. Ensure that filters are functioning and replaced when worn out.

3. Dishwasher Not Cleaning Properly

Problem:

Dishes come out dirty, spotted, or still greasy after washing.

Causes:

• Low water temperature

• Clogged spray arms

• Detergent issues

Fix:

Check that the water heater reaches at least 150°F (65°C). Clean spray nozzles to remove blockages and ensure detergent levels are sufficient. Regular descaling can also help with hard water issues.

4. Gas Range Burner Malfunctions

Problem:

Burners won’t ignite or produce uneven flames.

Causes:

• Dirty igniters

• Clogged burner ports

• Loose connections

Fix:

Turn off the gas supply, then clean burners and igniters. Check for visible damage. If flames are yellow instead of blue, there may be a ventilation or air intake issue.

5. Griddle Hot Spots or Cold Zones

Problem:

Uneven heating affects cooking consistency.

Causes:

• Grease build-up under the plate

• Burners not aligned or partially blocked

Fix:

Deep clean the griddle surface and underneath regularly. Inspect and realign burners to ensure uniform heat distribution.

6. Oven Temperature Inaccuracy

Problem:

Food undercooks or overcooks due to inconsistent oven temperature.

Causes:

• Faulty thermostat

• Broken heating element

• Worn-out door seal

Fix:

Use an oven thermometer to compare set vs. actual temperature. Replace faulty thermostats or elements. Ensure the oven door seal is intact to retain heat.

7. Commercial Ice Machine Not Producing Ice

Problem:

Ice output is too slow, or the machine stops working entirely.

Causes:

• Clogged water filters

• Scale build-up

• Blocked condenser

Fix:

Change water filters every 6 months. Descale the machine based on manufacturer recommendations. Ensure condenser fans are clean and unblocked.

If you're upgrading or replacing equipment, explore this range of reliable ice cream machine options that balance performance with easy upkeep.

8. Fryer Oil Degrading Too Quickly

Problem:

Oil breaks down faster than expected, affecting food taste and safety.

Causes:

• Improper oil temperature

• Infrequent filtering

• Low-quality oil

Fix:

Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (177°C) and filter daily. Skim particles from oil after each use, and follow a strict oil replacement schedule. Using oil with a high smoke point can also prolong its life.

9. Food Processor Motor Overheating

Problem:

The motor shuts down during use or emits a burning smell.

Causes:

• Overfilling the bowl

• Lack of ventilation

• Worn-out motor

Fix:

Avoid overloading and give the motor time to cool between tasks. Clean ventilation openings and consider replacing the motor if overheating persists regularly.

10. Walk-In Cooler Door Not Closing Properly

Problem:

The door stays ajar or doesn't seal tightly, leading to temperature fluctuation and energy loss.

Causes:

• Warped hinges

• Damaged door gaskets

• Uneven door alignment

Fix:

Inspect and lubricate hinges regularly. Replace damaged gaskets and ensure the door closes flush with the frame. Installing an automatic door closer is also a smart solution.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Proactive care can prevent most equipment issues. Here's how:

• Create a Maintenance Calendar: Schedule routine checks based on manufacturer recommendations.

• Train Staff: Ensure proper use and cleaning techniques.

• Keep Spare Parts: Having key replacement parts on hand reduces downtime.

• Work With Reputable Suppliers: Sourcing equipment from trusted providers of Dubai kitchen equipment ensures access to professional service and quality assurance.

Conclusion

Commercial kitchen equipment works hard—and naturally, it breaks down from time to time. But being aware of common issues and their fixes can save money, improve food quality, and keep operations running smoothly. With regular maintenance, timely repairs, and high-quality sourcing, your kitchen can stay efficient and reliable for the long haul.

Whether you're managing a café, food truck, or fine dining restaurant, staying on top of your equipment health is just as important as crafting the perfect menu.