Jerry’s Tech Talk: Repairing Overhead Warmers

Overhead warmers are fairly simple devices.  They are typically used to keep food that is ready to be served warm before it goes out on the server’s tray.  Overhead warmers have three main parts: 1. Element 2. ...

Jerry’s Tech Talk: Converting Gas Restaurant Equipment In 5 Simple Steps

Converting any piece of gas equipment from natural gas to propane or from propane to natural gas is fairly simple and can be accomplished in 5 easy steps. A list of parts that would be needed to convert the equipment would be: 1. Burner Orifices 2. Pilot Orifice 3....

Can You Trust Generic Restaurant Equipment Parts?

Any restaurateur who has dealt with equipment parts has heard of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and generic parts.  If you haven’t, here’s a quick rundown: OEM parts are produced by the manufacturer of the piece of equipment or a subcontractor commissioned to make parts for the original manufacturer.  OEM parts are...

Jerry’s Tech Talk: Replacing Gas Safety Valves

There are many different types of safety valves.  The most common are: 1. FMDA 2. BASO 3. TS 4. ...

Jerry’s Tech Talk: Identify Commercial Faucet Parts

There are many different brands of faucets on the market.  Some of the most common brands are: 1. T & S Brass 2. CHG/Encore 3. Chicago (Don’t confuse CHG with...

Jerry’s Tech Talk: Electric Thermostats

Electric thermostats are found on equipment that is of course electric, like electric ovens, ranges, fryers, etc.  Electric thermostats can also be used on gas equipment like griddles and fryers. All electric thermostats do exactly the same thing: “sense temperature.”  They have a capillary tube with a bulb on the end.  The bulb is located in a...

Jerry’s Tech Talk: Countertop Warmers

Dear Reader: I’m happy to introduce a new series here on The Back Burner to help you keep your restaurant equipment humming like the fine tuned machine it is.  Jerry Green has been repairing commercial refrigeration equipment, HVAC, and restaurant equipment for 32 years and these Tech Talks will impart some of the wisdom he’s accumulated over that time for your benefit.  Enjoy! ...