Conveyor ovens have a service life of up to 30 years but generally last about 20 years.

Service life can depend on factors including whether the operator mixes the dough fresh on-site or at an auxiliary commissary. That’s because flour from pizza dough making can interfere with the operation of conveyor ovens and shorten these units’ service life. For this reason, service agents say it’s best to position the units away from pizza prep activities.

Depending on the volume, operation and environment, operators should take apart and thoroughly clean the conveyor oven at least quarterly. Staff can use soap and water with scrub brushes to clean conveyor belts and components. When reassembled, check bushings on shafts and brackets for damage and excessive wear and tear.

In addition to regular cleaning by staff, periodic maintenance visits from qualified service technicians can help extend service life. Technicians clean air vents, adjust combustion blowers on gas units, and check belts and bearings.

If cooling fans aren’t working properly, it can cause high-temperature issues that impact more expensive oven parts like motors and temperature sensors. Regular cleaning and maintenance lessen the likelihood of this becoming an issue.

Compromised burners or ones that won’t light at all are signs that a new unit may be necessary. Quartz heating elements will turn black and become less efficient before breaking down. When blower motors are failing, ovens will often produce squeaking and/or rattling noises.

Components can become obsolete, so equipment more than 15 years old that is experiencing excessive problems should be replaced.