7 Commercial Mixer Maintenance Rules You Should Know
Commercial mixer maintenance is a critical part of efficient restaurant operations, but so often it’s ignored or put off in favor of seemingly more pressing matters. But what about when the mixer breaks down due to built-up debris? What if you have to replace or repair your mixer at a busy time?
You won’t be happy, and you’ll probably wish you followed proper commercial mixer maintenance guidelines. Below are the top seven must-dos for a functioning mixer.
1. Oil the Moving Parts
Lubrication is key. You don’t have to oil the mixer every day, but it’s important to establish a schedule. Components like the sliding bowl height adjustor should be oiled twice per year. As soon as the gear housing starts to squeak, that needs oil too. A well-lubricated machine is less prone to breakdowns.
2. Adjust Agitator Height
Your mixer will operate more smoothly and deliver desired results faster when the agitator height is correct. But with daily use, mixer height can become misaligned. Reference the machine’s manual for the specific measurements, then adjust the height accordingly.
3. Take it Apart on Occasion
It’s always helpful to wipe down the mixer immediately after use. It’s not practical to do a deep clean every day. But you shouldn’t let years go by without one. Make it a habit to disassemble the mixer according to manufacturer instructions on a regular basis, perhaps during a day the restaurant or bakery is closed. It’s the only way to get the mixer truly clean, inside and out.
4. Keep it Dry
Water isn’t good for the mixer’s internal components. Every time you clean it with hot, soapy water, make sure you dry it completely right away. Don’t use high-pressure cleaning techniques — water could get into the inner workings and lead to rusting and early failure.
5. Replace Worn Belts
When belts wear down, they’re bound to break. The key is to replace the belts before that happens. Keep a close eye on them with regular inspections and opt for replacement before repairs are needed.
6. Replenish Failing Seals
When seals are leaking, don’t delay: replace! Contact a certified repair technician to help with this if you have trouble on your own.
7. Safety Comes First
It might seem obvious, but don’t clean your mixer unless it’s unplugged. The risk of electrical shock is high when water is involved. Inspect electrical cords for frays and punctures and replace if necessary
At Dough Tech, we supply only the best machines to our customers, and we want them to last. That’s why we offer our best commercial mixer maintenance tips and tricks. Have a question? Call us!