Some manufacturers insist that operators bring units in for service, while others will arrange work on toasters where they are installed. Depending on usage rates and models selected, this could prove a critical difference for operator customers.

Before cleaning or maintenance is performed on a conveyor toaster, it should be switched off, unplugged and cooled down. Also, these units should never be sprayed with or submerged in water.

Since toasters are cooled by having air flowing through their electrical areas, employees must not operate a unit without the side or rear covers being in place. If the conveyor chain touches the top surface of the crumb tray holder, it must be re-tensioned by first unplugging the unit, removing both side covers, loosening front-bearing mounting screws and pivoting the bearing until the chain no longer touches.

Permanently lubricated ball bearing motors on some toasters can provide ease of maintenance. Models with replaceable industrial heating plates are available, which can help extend the toaster’s service life.

Removal of crumbs and thorough, regular cleaning are essential to ensure toasters remain sanitary. This is especially true with conveyor toaster models, which may handle products with toppings, such as cheese, meat or vegetables. Removable crumb trays can simplify cleaning. Staff should keep moisture away from heating elements. Some models come with a nonstick, Teflon-coated return chute.

The stainless-steel exterior should be wiped daily with a damp cloth. Tough stains can be tackled with a metal cleaner. Abrasive cleaners or pads should be avoided as these can mar the finish and create tiny ruts where soil can accumulate. Tough-to-reach places can be cleaned with a small brush and mild soap. The crumb tray and toast collector pans can be removed and cleaned with soap and water. These should be rinsed well and either wiped off or air dried. The toast feeder ramp can be disconnected and cleaned with a damp cloth or a mild solution of 1 cup ammonia to 1 gallon of water.

Check air vents weekly for accumulation of dust and other debris, then wipe clean or vacuum. If this is not done, the unit may overheat and shut down. If lightly soiled, the conveyor belt can be turned to the fastest setting and wiped with a damp cloth. A light abrasive cleaner can be used for heavily soiled units.

The bottom heating element reflector has slots that allow breadcrumbs to fall through. Periodically, these may stack up, clogging the slots. If this happens, crumbs can be swept down into the crumb tray with a bristle brush.