You can replace most kitchen equipment without closing if you schedule the swap for your slowest window, have the new unit on site and inspected before the old one comes out, confirm the utilities match ahead of time, and set up a temporary station for whatever the old unit did. Most closures during an upgrade come from a unit that does not fit, a wrong gas or power hookup, or freight that arrives on the wrong day.
Shop the equipment in this article: induction burners, hot plates and commercial kitchen equipment. Freight is included on every order.
Here is a step by step plan that works for a single piece, such as a range or a reach-in, and for a larger refresh of restaurant and commercial kitchen equipment done in stages.
1. Pick the window
Look at your sales by day and hour and choose the slowest stretch, usually a weekday morning before lunch or the night after close. Count backward from that window: the new unit has to be delivered, uncrated, inspected and moved into position before the old one is disconnected.
2. Order early and plan around lead times
Lead time is the part owners most often underestimate. Our shipping policy gives the timing:
- In-stock items ship within 1 to 2 business days of the order.
- Parcel shipments typically arrive 2 to 5 business days after shipping, and freight shipments 3 to 7 business days, depending on distance.
- Factory-direct items can take 7 to 14 business days to leave the manufacturer.
- If anything on the order is delayed or backordered, we contact you before it ships.
Check the stock status on the product page before you set a date. A unit listed on backorder needs a later window or a different model.
3. Schedule the delivery, not just the order
Large equipment ships by freight on a pallet. The carrier calls to schedule, usually with a 4-hour delivery window, so put a phone number on the order that someone will answer. Liftgate service is included at no charge, delivery is curbside, and drivers are not permitted to bring equipment inside, so arrange a pallet jack, dolly or extra staff for the move from the curb. Freight to the 48 contiguous states is included in the price. Common practice is to schedule delivery a day or more before the install window so a late truck does not cancel the swap.
4. Measure the space and the path
Measure the opening where the unit will go, then every doorway, hallway and turn from the curb to that spot. Compare them with the dimensions on the product page, and remember that legs, casters, handles and door swing add to the footprint. Leave the clearance the manual asks for around vents on refrigeration.
5. Confirm the utilities match
A new unit that does not match the hookup is the most common reason a swap runs past the window.
- Gas: our gas ranges, hot plates and charbroilers ship set for natural gas or ask you to choose natural gas or LP when you order. Confirm your building’s gas type and the size of the connection.
- Electric: check voltage, phase and plug type on the spec. Many refrigeration pages ask for a dedicated circuit.
- Water and drain: sinks, ice machines and plumbed brewers need the right supply and drain, and a plumber usually makes the connection.
Book the plumber, electrician or gas technician for the install window before the equipment ships.
6. Inspect the new unit before the old one comes out
Our shipping policy asks you to count pieces against the delivery receipt, look for crushed corners, dents or torn wrap, photograph anything wrong and write it on the receipt before signing. Uncrate and inspect within 48 hours of delivery, even if you are not installing yet, and report concealed damage within 48 hours with photos. Finding a dent before the old unit is gone means you keep cooking while it is sorted out. Our guide to receiving freight deliveries walks through it step by step.
7. Set up a temporary station
- Cooking: a countertop induction burner or a gas hot plate on an equipment stand can cover sauces and saute work while a range is swapped. The Waring WIH400 induction cooktop runs on a standard 120 V outlet, has 12 temperature settings from 120 to 500 F and works only with induction-ready pans.
- Refrigeration: move product to another unit that holds 41 F or below. The FDA Food Code requires cold holding at 41 F or below (Food Code 3-501.16), so check the temperature in the temporary unit before and during the swap. A reach-in refrigerator bought ahead of a walk-in repair often stays on as extra capacity afterward.
- Warewashing: if you are replacing a compartment sink, plan how dishes get washed that day. A three compartment sink is required for manual warewashing (4-301.12), so ask your health department what they accept while it is out.
Your local health department has the final say. Before you replace refrigeration, warewashing sinks or hand sinks, ask them whether the change needs their review.
8. Adjust the menu for the day
Pull the dishes that depend on the equipment being replaced, or prepare them ahead and hold them correctly. Tell the front of house so servers are not surprised.
9. Remove the old unit
Shut off and cap the gas, power or water before disconnecting. Decide ahead of time whether the old unit will be sold, moved to another station or hauled away, so it does not block the aisle on install day.
10. Test before service
Level the new unit, connect it, and run it before guests arrive: light every burner and pilot, check oven and holding temperatures with a thermometer, and let refrigeration reach temperature before loading food. Keep the manual and warranty papers together; each product carries its manufacturer warranty.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I order replacement equipment?
Check the stock status first. In-stock items ship within 1 to 2 business days and freight typically arrives 3 to 7 business days after shipping, but factory-direct items can take 7 to 14 business days just to leave the manufacturer, so add that to the transit time when you set the date.
Will the driver bring the equipment into the kitchen?
No. Freight delivery is curbside with liftgate service included. Plan staff or a pallet jack to move it inside.
What if the new unit arrives damaged?
Note the damage on the delivery receipt before signing, take photos, and call us. Severe damage can be refused at the door, and concealed damage should be reported within 48 hours.
Can I return equipment if it does not fit?
Powered equipment has a 7 day return window and non-powered items such as tables and sinks have 14 days, in unused condition and original packaging. Return freight and restocking fees can apply, so measure first.
Before you order
- Measure the space and every doorway on the delivery path, and compare them with the dimensions on each product page.
- Check the spec sheet for power, gas or water requirements and match them to what your building has.
- Compare capacity with your busiest day rather than your average day.
- Read the warranty terms for the brand before you order.
Delivery, warranty and payment
- Delivery: delivery within the continental US is included in the price on the product page, and freight orders include liftgate service.
- Warranty: each product carries its manufacturer warranty. Terms by brand are on our warranty page.
- Financing: lease-to-own financing through Clicklease is offered on items of $500 and up. See how financing works.
- Quotes: buying for a business and need a written quote? Call +1-877-558-2253 or use our contact page.
Not sure which model fits?
Call +1-877-558-2253 with your space, power supply and daily volume, and we will help you narrow it down.