Doors also come in a variety of formats, ranging from single, front-pivoting designs to double closures. Completely open models with both front and rear access doors for easy loading and pass-through access are available. Some doors are made entirely of glass, while others have windows. Some makers coat cabinet fronts in anodized metals or provide heavier glass for better insulation. Other rotisseries feature a curved glass design and can roast and automatically hold products for customer viewing in front of house settings. Upscale, European-style rotisseries can provide added merchandising appeal.

Labor issues may dictate the type of unit and controls a foodservice operation requires. Shorter spits are easier to handle, while those that are longer may require two people to lift. Also, units with automatic controls will require less labor. Those with programmable modes offer pre-heating and holding capability.

Accessories

Operators can choose from a number of accessories, including heavy-duty spits and baskets to hold fish or vegetables. Ovens are available with horizontal spits that allow the co-mingling of various menu items. Rotisseries also may include warming cabinets to hold finished products. Some doors are designed to stay cool for added safety. Other options include automatic cleaning programs, adjustable legs, electric timers, mirrored door glass and coated angled or piercing spits.

Models are available with a constant drip water bath, so the products' grease is regularly removed from the cabinet. The water bath includes a removable stand pipe to make cleaning easier. Grease collection systems are available that enhance employee safety. With this option, staff can more easily dispose of hot, slippery grease.

To facilitate easier cleaning, drip pans, spits and drains should be removable without tools. A water bath system on some units produces humidified air to facilitate easier cleaning.

One common mistake operators make is specifying a rotisserie on the up-front cost only and not considering the long-term operating cost. Units that cost less but are not energy efficient may cost more to operate in the long run.

Operators have the option of choosing from a number of energy-efficient features. Units with multiple burners offer the ability to utilize only those that are needed, cutting down on gas use. Batch units with forced air burners create a higher velocity of oxygen and gas, which can provide as much as 35 percent energy savings. Newer spit designs include gas heat that cooks food from the inside out, which not only helps kill bacteria, but can increase yield and shorten cooking times. On some units, a self-cleaning feature will help keep convection fans clean, which can decrease cook times and provide energy savings.