From verifying utilities and equipment specifications to coordinating with multiple trades, installation teams have to manage countless details to ensure a kitchen is installed correctly, efficiently, and according to design intent.
We asked Avanti’s lead installation managers to share what their teams look for in the field, how they approach unexpected challenges, and what it takes to successfully install commercial kitchen and refrigeration equipment.
Catching Installation Issues Before They Become Problems
What does an experienced commercial kitchen installer notice on a jobsite that others might miss?
Lance: We’re always looking for details that could become problems later. That includes access, clearances, utilities, serviceability, and how equipment will actually be used and maintained once the kitchen is operational. Many of these details may not be obvious to the customer, but identifying potential issues early can help prevent delays, rework, and costly downtime.
Coordinating Commercial Kitchen Installation with GCs and Trades
How does your installation team coordinate with general contractors and other trades?
Lance: We work as a team, not in a silo. Commercial kitchen equipment installation requires close coordination with all parties involved from planning to final installation. We identify potential conflicts before they become problems and stay focused on the end goal, an efficient quality installation that meets the design intent and performs the way it was intended.
Solving Unexpected Challenges in the Field
What is the installation team’s biggest strength?
Lance: We are especially good at solving the unexpected challenges that come up in the field, such as site conditions that don’t match plans, access or clearance issues, coordination conflicts with trades, equipment fit and alignment problems and last-minute changes. Our team stays calm, thinks creatively, and finds practical solutions to keep projects moving while not sacrificing quality or time.
Charbel: Discipline is a major strength of our refrigeration installation team. We always are thinking outside the box. We always regroup and coordinate to solve the problems that we are facing on the jobsite. One important thing is contacting the supervisor for advice and recommendations to solve the issues on the job site so we can get the job done.
Kitchen Equipment Installers You Can Count On
How does Avanti differ from other installation companies?
Lance: It comes down to ownership and accountability. We’re involved from the project concept through installation and handoff to the customer. That creates continuity throughout the project and gives the customer one point of accountability. Attention to detail and clean, professional work are also important. We’re not just focused on completing the installation—we want to leave behind a kitchen that is ready to perform.
What Goes Into a Successful Commercial Refrigeration Installation?
Refrigeration installation adds another layer of technical coordination to a commercial kitchen project. Accurate information and communication between the installation team, project team, manufacturers, and other trades are critical.
What needs to go right for commercial refrigeration installation to be successful?
Charbel: A few things need to be right to do our work. We need the latest plans, correct refrigeration equipment specifications, technical information, and verified model numbers.
What are some of the biggest challenges with commercial refrigeration installation?
Charbel: Scheduling and trade coordination are two of the biggest considerations. Refrigeration work often depends on other portions of the project being ready, so communication between teams is essential.
Commercial Kitchen Installation FAQs
When should a commercial kitchen installer get involved in a project?
Ideally, installers should be involved before equipment arrives on-site. Early involvement can help identify access, staging, utility, clearance, and sequencing considerations that could affect installation.
Who is responsible for installing commercial kitchen equipment?
Commercial kitchen equipment is typically installed by professional kitchen equipment installers working alongside the general contractor and required trades. Responsibilities vary by project scope, equipment type, and local requirements.
Does commercial kitchen equipment need to be installed by a professional?
Professional installation helps ensure equipment is properly positioned, leveled, secured, and coordinated with required utilities. Certain equipment may also have manufacturer, code, warranty, or licensed-trade requirements.
What should a restaurant do before new kitchen equipment arrives?
The site should be ready to receive equipment, with access paths cleared, installation areas prepared, and applicable utilities and connections coordinated. Delivery and staging requirements should also be confirmed in advance.
What happens after commercial kitchen equipment is installed?
After installation, equipment may require final utility connections, startup, testing, adjustments, inspections, and manufacturer commissioning before the kitchen becomes operational.
