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January 13, 2026
10 Warning Signs Your Catering Equipment Needs Servicing
Look out for these 10 warning signs your catering equipment could be in need of a service. South Coast Catering Equipment’s experienced engineers are here to keep your kitchens performing, compliant and safe.
10 Warning Signs Your Catering Equipment Needs Servicing
Your catering equipment is the backbone of your business. Each piece is a vital cog in your operation to ensure a smooth and efficient service. Noticing when something needs a service is crucial because an unexpected breakdown means an unexpected cost that could have been avoided.
At South Coast Catering Equipment, we have over 50 years of experience supporting hospitality businesses across the South Coast and we know the importance of servicing your catering equipment.
Here are the 10 warning signs you need to look out for to know when your catering equipment needs servicing.
1. Abnormal Noises
Any noises that you don’t recognise or haven’t heard before shouldn’t be ignored. Whether it’s a rattling, buzzing or grinding noise, it’s never a good sign.
They can often indicate potential loose parts, a deeper motor issue or mechanical wear and tear.
2. Decrease in Performance
A typical warning sign of an overdue service is lack of efficiency. This could mean your food takes longer than usual to cook, chill or heat and can lead to negative dining experiences.
The most common culprits are worn components, failing heating elements or clogged ventilation.
3. Inconsistent Temperatures
Food safety relies on stable temperatures to ensure consistent food quality. Fluctuations can put diners at risk and are not safe for your kitchen.
Ovens, fridges or freezers could be housing faulty thermostats or damaged seals which means your equipment could need a service.
4. Visible Leaks
Pooling water is a sure sign that your equipment has an issue and it is not to be ignored.
Water leaks can come from problems such as damaged hoses, blocked drains or broken seals. All of which can become serious issues that affect electrical components and create dangerous safety hazards.
5. Strong Smells
An electrical smell or burning odour can indicate a potential overheating issue which is important to get checked quickly.
There could be hidden damaged wiring or even residue build-up causing the smell and it’s crucial to get a professional service booked in.
6. Increased Energy Bills
An unexpected spike in your bills can be an indication that your catering equipment isn’t working at its best. When a piece of equipment has an issue, it works harder to maintain its workload but in doing so uses more energy for the same outcome.
This results in higher energy bills. Preventative maintenance restores performance and reduces running costs.
7. Error Codes
The beauty of modern catering equipment is that they often feature digital displays which show error codes when there is a problem.
Error codes are early warning signs that you shouldn’t ignore.
8. Uneven Heating
Inconsistent heating in ovens, griddles and warmers can lead to poor food quality and often indicates issues with fans, calibrations or heating elements.
This could harm your kitchen’s efficiency as well as its reputation.
9. Excessive Buildup
If your fryers, vents or hoods are collecting grease faster than usual then your equipment may not be functioning adequately.
This level of buildup can create a fire hazard and reduces your kitchen’s level of hygiene.
10. Persistent Breakdowns
If you find that your equipment is frequently breaking down or needing repairs, this is a sign that it needs a thorough service.
In the long-term, preventative maintenance is always a better financial option compared to expensive emergency repairs.
Is Your Catering Equipment in Need of a Service?
At South Coast Catering Equipment, our experienced team work with all leading catering brands to ensure that you have a kitchen that performs.
We provide a range of service options to suit you. Whether you need an emergency repair or planned preventative maintenance, our engineers always use genuine replacement parts for guaranteed performance.
Get in touch with the South Cost Catering Equipment team today for a free, no-obligation quote or to discuss a tailored maintenance plan.