Best Commercial Convection Oven: Top Choices for Your Business Needs

The world of commercial convection ovens is vast and offers a plethora of options to suit various needs and budgets. These ovens have become an essential piece of equipment in professional kitchens due to their efficiency, consistent results, and ability to handle large volumes of food. In this article, we will delve into the best commercial convection ovens on the market today, so you can make an informed decision for your business.

Understanding Convection Ovens

How They Work

Convection ovens are a popular type of oven that use fans to circulate hot air within the oven chamber. The hot air envelops food and cooks it from all sides, instead of relying on radiated heat from heating elements found in traditional ovens. This air circulation is what sets convection ovens apart and gives them their distinct advantages over conventional ovens.

Benefits over Traditional Ovens

There are several key benefits of using a convection oven over a traditional oven, making them ideal for commercial settings and professional kitchens. Some notable advantages include:

• Even heat distribution: The circulation of hot air ensures that the heat is evenly distributed throughout the oven, resulting in consistent and uniform cooking. This reduces the risk of hotspots and unevenly cooked food, leading to better overall cooking results.
• Faster cooking times: Due to the efficient transfer of heat, convection ovens cook food more quickly than traditional ovens. This can be a significant advantage in busy commercial kitchens where time is of the essence.
• Better browning and crisping: The circulating hot air helps to remove moisture from the surface of the food, resulting in better browning and crisping of baked goods such as bread, pastries, and cookies.
• Energy efficiency: Convection ovens typically use less energy than traditional ovens because they heat up faster and maintain temperatures more effectively. This can lead to cost savings on utility bills and reduced environmental impact.
• Versatility: Convection ovens are suitable for a wide range of cooking methods, including baking, roasting, and broiling. This flexibility makes them a valuable addition to any professional kitchen.

In summary, convection ovens offer a range of benefits over traditional ovens, making them a popular choice for commercial settings. With even heat distribution, faster cooking times, and better browning capabilities, these ovens provide superior cooking results for a variety of dishes and applications.

Top 5 Commercial Convection Ovens

Copper Beech Convection Oven CBCO-G

The Copper Beech Convection Oven CBCO-G is a high-performance gas oven suitable for commercial kitchens. It is designed for efficiency and reliability, featuring powerful burners and a durable stainless steel construction. The oven is also equipped with adjustable pan racks, providing ample space for a variety of cooking needs.

See Price

Sierra Range SRCO-2E Double Full Size Electric Convection Oven

 

 

Sierra Range's SRCO-2E is a double full-size electric convection oven perfect for busy kitchens. It offers exceptional temperature control, ensuring consistent and evenly cooked results every time. The oven has two separate cooking chambers, allowing for simultaneous cooking of different dishes, increasing productivity in your commercial kitchen environment.

See Price

IKON IGCO-2 Double Full Size Natural Gas/Liquid Propane Gas Convection Oven - 108,000 BTU

 

 

IKON's IGCO-2 is a versatile and high-performing convection oven that operates on either natural gas or liquid propane. This double full-size oven boasts a substantial BTU output of 108,000, making it an excellent choice for various commercial kitchen settings. With two cooking compartments, it enables users to prepare different dishes simultaneously, saving time and effort.

See Price

Migali C-CO1-NG / C-CO1-LP Single Full Size Convection Oven – 46,000 BTU

The Migali C-CO1 Convection Oven comes in both natural gas and liquid propane variants, making it a suitable choice for various kitchen requirements. It offers a 46,000 BTU heating capacity, providing excellent performance and energy efficiency. The single full-size oven features robust construction and is designed to meet the needs of commercial kitchen environments.

See Price

Axis AX-514RH Half-Size Countertop Convection Oven, 208-240v/1ph

For commercial kitchens with limited space, the Axis AX-514RH is an ideal choice. This half-size countertop convection oven provides the same convection technology found in larger models, enabling consistent cooking results despite its compact size. It can be easily integrated into your existing kitchen setup, making it a resourceful addition to your cooking equipment.

See Price

Types of Commercial Convection Ovens

There are two main types of commercial convection ovens to consider when looking for the best option for your business: electric convection ovens and gas convection ovens. Each type has its own advantages and specific requirements.

Electric Convection Ovens

Electric convection ovens offer consistent and precise temperature control, making them ideal for delicate baking tasks. They typically run on either 120 volts or 208 volts, with some models requiring a 3-phase electrical connection. Electric convection ovens are generally easier to install, as they only need an electrical outlet. They are also considered to be more energy-efficient compared to gas models.

Some key features of electric convection ovens include:

• Ease of installation
• Greater temperature control
• Energy efficiency

Gas Convection Ovens

Gas convection ovens operate using either natural gas or liquid propane as their fuel source. They are known for their higher heating power, with BTU (British Thermal Unit) ratings reaching up to 108,000 BTU. Gas convection ovens are popular for large-scale commercial kitchens, as they typically heat up more quickly than electric models and provide a higher level of heat consistency.

A few important aspects of gas convection ovens include:

• Quick heat-up times
• High heating power
• Consistent heat distribution

When choosing between electric and gas convection ovens, businesses should consider their specific needs, budget, and available utilities. While electric convection ovens offer precision and energy efficiency, gas convection ovens provide rapid heating and consistent heat distribution. Ultimately, the choice should be based on the specific requirements of your commercial kitchen, ensuring that the selected oven will meet your expectations and contribute towards a successful operation.

Key Features to Consider

When selecting the best commercial convection oven for your establishment, there are several important factors to consider. In this section, we will discuss the key features to keep in mind, including size and capacity, temperature range and control, and construction and durability.

Size and Capacity

One of the first things to consider when choosing a commercial convection oven is the size and capacity appropriate for your kitchen needs. There are various options available such as:

• Full-size: These ovens offer the most interior space and are ideal for larger commercial kitchens. They typically house multiple adjustable wire racks, making them suitable for a wide range of cooking tasks.

• Half-size: These ovens have a smaller footprint but still offer ample cooking capacity. They are a great option for smaller kitchens with limited space.

• Countertop: These compact ovens are designed to fit on a countertop, making them ideal for establishments with limited floor space. Despite their smaller size, they can still manage a variety of cooking tasks.

• Compact: Small and portable, these ovens can be easily moved and stored when not in use. They are a great choice for catering businesses or kitchens with limited space.

Temperature Range and Control

Another important feature to consider when selecting a commercial convection oven is its temperature range and control. A versatile oven should offer:

• Precise temperature control: This allows for accurate and consistent cooking, ensuring optimal results for various types of dishes.

• Turbo convection baking technology: This feature evenly distributes heat, enabling faster cooking times and even browning.

• Variable cooking cycle: A convection oven with adjustable cooking cycles allows for more flexibility in preparing a range of recipes, from roasting to baking.

Construction and Durability

Finally, the construction and durability of the oven are crucial factors in determining its overall performance and lifespan. Look for the following qualities:

• Stainless steel exterior: Stainless steel is not only aesthetically appealing but also resistant to rust, corrosion, and wear and tear, ensuring a long-lasting investment in your commercial kitchen.

• Durable and easy-to-clean interior: A robust oven interior can withstand high temperatures and the rigors of daily use, while also being easy to clean and maintain.

In summary, when selecting the best commercial convection oven for your business, pay particular attention to the size and capacity, temperature range and control, and construction and durability of the oven. By considering these key features, you can make a knowledgeable decision that will effectively satisfy your kitchen needs.

Special Features and Add-ons

Double Deck and Stacking Options

Commercial convection ovens come in various configurations to meet the needs of different kitchens. The double deck option is a popular choice for those who require a high level of productivity and space efficiency. With a double deck convection oven, users can simultaneously cook and bake various food items in the two full-size cavities. Each cavity houses adjustable wire racks that can be tailored according to the items being cooked.

In addition to double deck options, commercial convection ovens may also offer stacking options. Stackable ovens are single deck systems that can be placed on top of one another to maximize the use of available space in a kitchen. These stacking options provide the same versatility and cooking capabilities as a double deck oven but with a smaller footprint.

Steam Injection Systems

Steam injection systems have also become a highly desirable feature in commercial convection ovens. By introducing steam into the cooking process, these ovens can cook food items more evenly and maintain moisture levels, resulting in deliciously tender and juicy dishes. Steam injection systems are particularly advantageous in baking applications, as they produce bakery products with a superior crust and optimal texture.

To summarize, commercial convection ovens provide various special features and add-ons to meet the diverse needs of different kitchens. Double deck and stacking options are excellent choices for utilizing space efficiently and increasing productivity, while steam injection systems offer the added benefit of enhancing food quality and cooking outcomes.

Tips for Effective Use

Proper Pan Placement

When using a commercial convection oven, it's essential to place your pans correctly for optimal results. Utilize wire racks to elevate your food and ensure even heat distribution underneath. Select sheet pans with low sides, which promote better air circulation and consequently deliver uniformly cooked dishes.

Moreover, it's a good idea to:

• Choose the right size of sheet pan to fit the oven and avoid overcrowding.
• Arrange food items with sufficient space between them to facilitate airflow.
• Position pans on the center rack to take full advantage of the oven's heat distribution capabilities.

Taking Advantage of Heat Distribution

An essential aspect of using a convection oven is understanding and leveraging its heat distribution properties. The following tips will help you achieve excellent baking performance:

• Lower the temperature by 25°F: Since convection ovens heat more effectively, it's advisable to reduce the recommended cooking temperature by about 25°F.
• Monitor cooking times: Due to improved heat distribution, your dishes might require less baking time. Keep an eye on your food and consider checking 5-10 minutes earlier than the recipe suggests.
• Use low or pulse fan speed: For more delicate items like muffins and soufflés, opt for a lower fan speed or pulse it to ensure even heating without disturbing the dish.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can enhance your cooking experience with your commercial convection oven and ensure a consistently impressive baking performance.

Common Applications and Industries

Restaurants and Cafes

Commercial convection ovens are essential in restaurants and cafes that prioritize speed, efficiency, and consistent results in their cooking processes. These ovens are designed for heavy-duty use and can handle continuous operation in commercial kitchens. Their ability to evenly cook food items, thanks to the circulating fan, makes them an ideal tool for a variety of cooking and baking applications.

In a restaurant or cafe setting, convection ovens excel in preparing dishes such as:

• Roasted meats
• Casseroles
• Baked goods like cookies and quiches
• Pizzas and flatbreads

Bakeries

Bakeries depend on the performance of commercial convection ovens to ensure evenly baked and well-textured products. The circulating fan provides consistent heating, reducing the chances of hot spots and unevenly cooked pastries. This efficient method of heat distribution also allows for up to a 25% reduction in cooking time for certain products, depending on their size.

Convection ovens are perfect for baking:

• Breads and rolls
• Pies and tarts
• Cakes and muffins
• Cookies and pastries

Catering Businesses

Catering companies must uphold consistent food quality across various events and locations. Commercial convection ovens play a crucial role in maintaining that level of consistency when preparing and transporting sizeable quantities of food for a specific function.

These ovens offer the following benefits to caterers:

• Versatility for cooking both small and large batches
• Faster cooking times, enabling quicker turnaround for events
• Even results in food preparation, leading to consistent presentation
• Space-saving design, ideal for mobile catering units

Overall, commercial convection ovens are a reliable choice for restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and catering businesses. They deliver consistent results while saving time and energy, making them a worthy investment in the food service industry.

Maintenance and Warranty

Routine Care

Maintaining your commercial convection oven requires regular attention and care to ensure optimal performance and longevity. It's essential to clean the oven daily to avoid buildup of grease and debris. Pay close attention to the oven's porcelain interior, as it can be damaged if not cleaned gently. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scouring pads on the oven's interior; instead, opt for a soft cloth and gentle cleaning solution.

Proper maintenance also includes checking for and addressing any loose parts or damaged seals, ensuring that the oven door closes securely, and inspecting ventilation systems to avoid blockages. To keep your oven in peak working condition, it's best to schedule routine professional maintenance to identify potential issues and prevent expensive breakdowns.

Manufacturer Warranties

Before purchasing a commercial convection oven, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's warranty. Warranty terms and conditions typically vary between manufacturers but commonly include coverage for parts, labor, and overall repairs. Some warranties might be more comprehensive than others, extending coverage to a broader range of issues and components.

When comparing warranties, take note of the warranty duration, as this can also differ significantly between manufacturers. A strong warranty can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment in a commercial convection oven.

In conclusion, keeping your commercial convection oven well-maintained and understanding its warranty can significantly impact its performance and lifespan. Prioritize routine care and familiarize yourself with the oven's manufacturer warranty to make the most out of your investment and ensure a functional and efficient kitchen.

Wrap Up

In summary, finding the ideal commercial convection oven can significantly enhance the efficiency and productivity of any professional kitchen. For those in search of countertop options, some of the best choices in the market today include commercial convection ovens with compact designs and versatile cooking capabilities. These ovens cater to a wide variety of food preparation styles, fitting perfectly on any kitchen countertop.

Key features to look for when choosing the right commercial convection oven include:

• Total BTUs or power output
• Size and footprint
• Gas or electric power source
• Cooking flexibility and versatility

Ultimately, the decision will be influenced by factors such as the kitchen's specific needs and available space. Taking the time to compare and analyze these top models can lead to optimal cooking results, satisfying customers, and boosting the bottom line.

Still looking for the best commercial convection oven for you? Browse our selection today and reach out to our expert team with any questions!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top features to consider when purchasing a commercial convection oven?

When choosing a commercial convection oven, there are several factors to consider. First, determine the capacity your operation requires. Consider ovens with adjustable wire racks, which offer flexibility for cooking various types of dishes. Next, consider the heating power—higher wattage means faster and more efficient cooking. Evaluate whether an electric or gas-powered oven best suits your needs. Finally, pay attention to the oven's fan system, as efficient air circulation is essential for even cooking.

What are the benefits of using an electric convection oven for bakeries?

For bakeries, an electric convection oven offers multiple advantages. Electric ovens typically feature more precise temperature control for consistent results. They also warm up more quickly and maintain steady heat, reducing cooking times. Additionally, electric convection ovens evenly distribute heat, ensuring uniformly cooked pastries and bread. Lastly, they are often easier to install and maintain compared to gas ovens, making them an appealing choice for many bakeries.

How to choose the right oven for a restaurant?

To choose the right oven for your restaurant, first assess your kitchen's space, layout, and electrical capabilities. Next, consider the types of dishes you plan to serve and the cooking techniques required. For instance, if you primarily bake, an electric convection oven may be the best choice. After that, decide on the oven's capacity, based on the number of customers you expect to serve daily. Consider energy efficiency, as an ENERGY STAR-rated oven can help reduce energy costs. Lastly, think about implementing start-up/shutdown schedules to maximize production capacity and minimize idle time.