Things to Look for When Buying Used Restaurant Equipment

Purchasing used restaurant equipment can be a great way for new restaurateurs or existing owners looking to upgrade to get quality items at a fraction of the cost of buying brand new. With some smart shopping, you can find gently used ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, and more that still have plenty of life left in them.

However, buying used does come with some risks. You want to thoroughly inspect any used restaurant equipment before purchasing to ensure you are getting a good value and not inheriting someone else's problems. Here are the key things savvy restaurant owners should look for when buying used restaurant equipment in dallas.

Carefully Inspect the Condition

The number one thing to look at is the overall physical condition of the used restaurant equipment. Examine it closely for any dents, scratches, rust, or other signs of wear and tear. Open up doors and check that seals are intact. Turn appliances on to ensure they power up and function properly.

Minor cosmetic blemishes may not be a big deal, but major dents or corrosion can be red flags for underlying issues. Scrutinize the condition to determine if the wear is purely superficial or indicative of larger problems.

Test All Functions and Settings

Don't just power equipment on briefly and assume it works. Thoroughly test out all functions and settings to verify proper operation.

For ovens, check that heating elements produce even heat at the expected temperature. For refrigerators and freezers, allow units to run for 20-30 minutes and then verify they are cooling to the correct internal temperature.

Put dishwashers through a full cycle with racks loaded to confirm clean dishes come out the other end. The more you test, the fewer surprises you will have after purchase.

Review Service and Maintenance Records

Reputable sellers should have detailed maintenance logs showing the service history for used restaurant equipment. Inspecting these records gives insight into past issues and shows that key parts, like motors, have been replaced.

Equipment with gaps in service records or overdue maintenance should raise some red flags. You ideally want items that have been routinely cared for by professionals.

Inquire About the Reason for Sale

Ask the seller why they are looking to get rid of the used restaurant equipment. Honest sellers will often openly share if they are closing shop or upgrading with newer models.

Be wary of vague answers, though. They could be trying to offload items with known problems before those issues surface. The more context you have on prior use and the sale, the better.

Have a Technician Inspect Before Buying

A professional inspection by a restaurant equipment technician prior to purchase can give useful peace of mind. They will be able to spot any non-obvious problems with fittings, electrical systems, or internal components.

This is especially advisable for complex equipment like commercial ice machines, steamers, or walk-in refrigerators. Paying a technician for an inspection now can save you much bigger headaches down the road.

Factor in Delivery/Installation Costs

The purchase price is not the only cost to consider. Used equipment will likely need to be uninstalled, transported, and reinstalled in your restaurant. Rent a truck or hire professional movers to handle these logistics.

Also, factor in any wiring, plumbing, or gas line work needed for proper installation. The total price can add up, so be sure to budget for it.

Ask About Included Warranties

Even when buying used, many dealers will include a short warranty (typically 30-90 days) that covers repair costs if problems surface shortly after the sale. This provides a nice safety net.

You can also inquire about purchasing an extended warranty for extra coverage on major used purchases. However, warranty expiration dates are based on the original purchase date.

Negotiate on Price for Quick Sale

Used restaurant equipment that has sat unsold for a while suggests the current price may need to be lowered. Do not hesitate to negotiate a lower price, especially if you are buying multiple pieces.

Offer to pay via cash or check to save the seller's credit card processing fees. Be ready to make a final fair price that incentivizes them to make the sale now.

Buy from Trusted Sellers

Where you purchase used restaurant equipment is just as important as what you buy. Stick to reputable dealers with service departments, long track records, and positive reviews.

Avoid deals that seem "too good to be true" on random websites or classified ads, as the equipment is unlikely to be in promised condition. A few extra dollars to a trusted seller goes a long way.

Prioritize Easy-to-Clean Equipment

The equipment used still needs to meet the needs of your current operation. For most restaurants, choosing items that are easy to fully clean and sanitize should be a top consideration.

Stainless steel surfaces are ideal because they limit cracks and crevices where bacteria can hide. To avoid food safety risks, meet NSF sanitation standards.

Match Electrical Specifications

Before purchasing used equipment, carefully check that electrical specs like voltage, amps, and wattage match your restaurant's electric system.

While you can use transformers for minor mismatches, issues like not having enough amps for an appliance will require new wiring at an added cost. Match electrical configurations to avoid headaches.

Look for Energy Efficient Models

Older equipment tends to be less energy efficient than newer models. While the initial cost may be lower, you will pay more in the long run on utility bills.

When possible, look for used equipment advertised as Energy Star certified or highlighted for efficiency. More efficient operation will quickly pay back your investment over time.

Weigh the Cost vs. New Equipment

Always compare the asking price of used items to what new versions would run. Used equipment that is less than 10-20 % less than new may not be worth minor savings.

Aim for a minimum 30% discount off the retail price for comparable new items to make buying used truly worthwhile. If the math does not work, buy new for the warranty and longer working life.

Conclusion

Buying used restaurant equipment requires a bit more research and scrutiny than purchasing brand-new items. However, following the tips above can help you land quality equipment at bargain prices to furnish your commercial kitchen on a budget. Take time to thoroughly evaluate condition, function, and specs to make smart purchases. Focus on trusted sellers and negotiate fair deals to get the most value from used equipment buys. Main Auction Services, Inc. is a reliable option to consider, offering a wide range of quality used restaurant equipment to meet your needs.