Top questions when buying a commercial range for your business

Are you in the market for a commercial range? If so, you want to make the best selection for your business so you maximize your investment. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know what's right for your kitchen.

According to Hap Schneider, general manager at popular restaurant supply store ACityDiscount.com, you should keep several considerations in mind when purchasing a commercial range:

1. What will be on the menu?
What's on your menu will help determine what the configuration of the range should be. For example, do you need six burners on the top versus two burners and a 24-inch griddle? It also will help you determine if you need a convection base oven or conventional.

2. What is the expected volume of people?
Not only is the size of the restaurant a concern, but the expected maximum volume during busy times is, too. The more people per hour expected to be served, the heavier duty the range needs to be.

3. What will be the power source?
Natural gas is the most popular power source, but LP (liquid propane) and electric are also options. Know what type of power you'll be using before you start shopping.

4. How will the range be used?
Will the range be used as a prep unit (to prepare foods for later use) or used as a service unit (cook to order)?

5. How many cooks will use the unit?
Sometimes a kitchen will run with just one chef on the range. Other times, multiple people will need access to the range. This might dictate a different size or configuration.

Once you have the answer to these questions, it's time to start shopping for your commercial range. Visit a reputable restaurant supply store with knowledgeable staff that can help direct you toward the right models in your price range. Here are some specifics to consider as you shop and compare options:

Different levels of commercial ranges

When shopping, there are four basic levels of commercial ranges. If you have a small cafe or a bar that only cooks a few food items, a light-duty option is appropriate for this type of low volume use. Medium duty is the next step up for slightly larger needs. Restaurant ranges are considered standard duty and are meant for hard and continuous use. Hotel series ranges are the heaviest duty, and are meant for the highest demand in very large restaurants or ones that cater to large events and parties.

Commercial range options

Several types of options for commercial ranges can make a difference in how your kitchen is run. Some ranges have open burners on top only. You can choose to have the front burners at a set height and the back burners stepped up six inches higher. There are also options for griddles on the top along with open burners. Char broilers are another option for the top of a range. The newest option is induction cooking for the top of the range.

No matter what your needs, you can find a commercial range that will help your kitchen run efficiently so your business will thrive. With a little research and preparation, you'll get the right option for you. Next step: happy, full customers.