Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/215553
Educating Customers continued shells and controls isn't available, a number of manufacturers say there is lack of user interest in solving this problem. They also say that engineering costs to resolve issues will be allocated when a national chain promising a large equipment order demands it. In Europe, cleaning at the end of a shift is usually done by the owner's kitchen or housekeeping staffs, who usually exercise great care with the equipment. In the U.S., cleaning services are often contracted out and outside vendors are logically not going to pay as much Tackling the Problem attention to proper methods as in-house How can dealers keep equipment from employees. Over-cleaning damage is dying as a result of the cleaning process, often the result of the difference in how or avoid battles over warranty claims equipment is cared for. when manufacturers Another factor affecting blame equipment cleaning is the use of trim, Interestingly, failure, user abuse, and reveals, and indentations to when asked why cleaning procedures? the shell of the equipment. Attend equipment equipment These elements are often shows and open houses only aesthetic; equipment with sealed and to voice concerns. Let manufacturers try to waterproof shells manufacturers know add an updated look, that customers need and controls isn't or differentiate their waterproof equipment units from other similar available, a number options that sustain products. Unfortunately, of manufacturers say real-life cleaning and the trim adds yet another sanitation procedures. there is lack of dirt crevice or barrier to Look for standard the cleaning process. user interest in or custom options that Mounting trim and logos solving this problem. help seal or waterproof require drilling holes into standard equipment. the equipment body, which becomes Equipment packages for correctional another point of entry for water and institutions often include lockable cleaning chemicals to work their way covers over controls that help protect into the insides of the equipment. them from pressure-washer sprays. Manufacturers have sought to provide These covers also reduce unauthorized value or justify premium prices on tampering with settings. certain brands by extended warranties When comparing equipment pros well beyond the 90 days parts and and cons for customers, include ease labor that was considered a standard of cleaning and any potential for soil a few years back. In today's economy, and grease accumulation as part of the equipment is offered with three-year selection criteria. Good design offers warranties and sometimes even five minimal cracks, crevices, louvers, and years. To control warranty service voids. The differences between major costs, claims are carefully reviewed to manufacturers of similar items can be make sure external factors like cleaning, significant. overheating from adjacent appliances, Ask manufacturers how their or excess voltage surges are not causing equipment tolerates pressure hose or parts to fail. When a $2,000 control spray cleaners on louvered control board on a convection oven or steamer panels. fails, and the manufacturer disclaims Suggest that customers consider the unit from warranty, a customer is different options for cleaning if likely to ask the dealer who sold it to problems continue. Compare the get involved, particularly if the dealer cost and outcomes of outside vendor recommended the equipment and cleaning services and the in-house staff installed it. The longer the warranty, the option. Employees may take more care more likely this scenario will play out. with cleaning since it's easier to hold Interestingly, when asked why them accountable if the equipment equipment with sealed and waterproof doesn't work after improper cleaning. ● ● ● ● ● ● 30 FEDA News & Views On the flip side, some employees have been known to deliberately over-clean a critical piece of equipment to the point of failure to avoid working the next day—but that's a different problem that needs to be discussed in another article. Consider offering add-on packages that protect trim and seals that can be affected by water spray or cleaning chemicals. For example, door guards, bumper trim and undercoat spray are very profitable add-ons for car dealers. Make sure customers have clearly defined and illustrated cleaning procedures for every type of equipment, and color code the type of cleaning chemicals best suited to specific equipment. Some designers and operators recommend installing equipment on masonry or stainless steel curbs or pads, which eliminates the need to clean the bottom frame and parts of the equipment particularly vulnerable to rust and water damage. Be forewarned that equipment curbs and bases are difficult to coordinate during both construction and installation phases and are more expensive than 6-inch legs. Curbs also limit necessary air circulation for most convection oven base ranges and they don't accommodate built-in filter systems within many fryer batteries. The curbs must be cut or notched during new installation to accommodate these modifications. Curbs may also require major demolition or modification if equipment is changed over time. Having been part of the foodservice industry for more than 43 years, I have seen this issue grow from a minor annoyance to a major concern of dealers, reps, service agencies, manufacturers, and most importantly, the customer. There are solutions available to solve these problems if everyone works together as a team. Dealers' voices and opinions at industry trade shows and during visits from factory executives can provide a positive step toward resolution. ● ● ● About the Author Foster Frable Jr. is the president of Consulting and Design Firm Clevenger Frable LaVallee, Inc. in White Plains, N.Y. To reach him, call 914- 997-9660.