Preventative maintenance provides the key to ensuring machinery's longevity, so it is something that all operators should take seriously.

As the old adage goes prevention is better than cure and this is definitely the case when it comes to equipment used in the foodservice industry. Although many resent the thought of shelling out more money after the initial purchase of equipment, they also appreciate the benefits that it offers. 

Preventative maintenance contracts allow caterers to maximise the efficiency and the life of their equipment. It's much more prudent to spend money on a preventative maintenance contract instead of continually throwing money away on repairs or replacements.

The main objective is to identify any issues before they become a real problem, so it's vital that operators look for a service provider with a good reputation for carrying out planned preventative maintenance.

"As with all business decisions, you need to weigh up the costs and benefits against the potential risks," says Bob Wood, director at DC Warewashing & Icemaking Systems. "Preventative maintenance should be viewed as an insurance, not a gamble, because operators are not only protecting their assets but also their business as a whole".

Read full article in B&I Catering Magazine June 2016 issue ...