Conveyor ovens are designed to be as maintenance-free as possible, but operators can take a few simple steps to help extend the service life of this cooking equipment. To remove leftover food debris, these ovens need daily cleaning. If the units are not properly maintained, operating costs will increase.

Below, Christopher Warren, director of operations for Joe Warren & Sons Co. Inc., Norwood, Mass., provides detailed cleaning and maintenance tips for conveyor ovens.

Cleaning Tips

1. Use a non-caustic cleaner and cloth to clean the outside surfaces. Always clean with the grain, then rinse with clean, warm water, and polish with a stainless-steel cleaner.
2. Clean the conveyor belt daily with a wire brush. Then, remove and clean the crumb tray, baffles, and other removable parts with warm water and a non-caustic degreaser before rinsing.
3. Clear the inside of the oven of all crumbs, clean with a mild detergent and rinse all areas with warm water afterward.
4. Check to make sure all air intake vents remain clear, clean and free of all debris.

Maintenance Tips

1. Inspect the gas hose for any kinks and ensure the connector is firmly locked in on gas models.
2. Ensure the conveyor belt sprockets are between the belt links and not on them. As necessary, reposition the sprockets and tighten the set screw.
3. Always allow at least 6 inches from any wall for proper air circulation.
4. Regularly check all switches, signal lights, knobs, line cords, etc., for proper operation.
5. If service issues do arise, contact your local service agent to further examine the unit.