Combi oven cleaning and maintenance requirements are similar to those of steamers. The focus should be on water quality and scale removal, which will directly impact the unit’s service life. Without regular and proper cleaning and maintenance, lime scale will build up on the oven’s interior over time.
Overlooking water filters or specifying an incorrect type can severely compromise operation and result in many service calls. Combi water filters should be replaced every three to six months, while generators should be descaled every six to 12 months, depending on hours of use.
Combi ovens will also have issues when the boiler is not well maintained. To avoid premature oven failure, operators or service agents need to annually descale these units.
Operators should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning methods and solutions. Typically, combi units run through a cleaning cycle during off hours. Having the appropriate type and amount of chemicals will help ensure the oven is kept on a regular cleaning cycle.
Day-to-day cleaning requirements include washing the interior and exterior of the oven with a mild soap solution and damp cloth. All racks should be removed and washed thoroughly in the sink.
Self-cleaning units provide push-button use. If a power outage interrupts the cleaning cycle, the combi will automatically go through a long rinse that eliminates soap residue in the oven.
Kitchen placement is another factor that impacts these units’ service life. These ovens also shouldn’t be situated by extreme heat, such as that emitted by open burner ranges, which could damage the oven. Leaving the recommended 18 inches of clearance space will protect combis from surrounding equipment. Combis also should not be directly placed over drains, or they run the risk of steam and water deteriorating the frame or internal components.
Although most combi operating components can be replaced or rebuilt, operators should weigh the cost of repairing with replacement. Experts recommend that when structural issues or repair costs are 50% of the combi’s replacement cost, a new unit should be considered. In addition, if motors, fans or other major parts are failing, it may be time to replace the oven.
The average lifespan of a combi oven is 10 to 15 years, depending on kitchen conditions and use.
