Is a Combi Oven right for your Commercial Kitchen?

What is a combi oven?

A combination oven, or “combi” oven, is a hybrid convection oven and steamer. These innovative models allow commercial kitchen operators to utilize the oven’s convection, steamer, or combination modes to achieve exact and reliable cooking results. This efficient system may be the right solution for your kitchen, but as with any purchase, there are many aspects to consider before investing. 

Why choose a combination oven?

• Save space – Combi ovens are ideal for small kitchens that must get the most out of each piece of equipment. Mini or countertop units from manufacturers like Naboo are good options for caterers and other space-conscious venues. Other manufacturers, like TurboChef, build ventless units that can be incorporated outside the vent hood space (be sure to check local health inspection regulations before going down that road, as many areas require ovens to be under a vent hood).
• Increase production volume – Incorporating steam and precision temperature control significantly speed up cook times and lets your team increase the amount of prep work and finished dishes they can produce.
• Versatility – Few ovens can proof bagels, steam fish, fry eggs, and roast meat. Combination ovens can tackle all these tasks and more. Rack-to-rack temperature control can even allow for multiple operations at once.
• User-friendly controls – Many brands, like industry leader Rational, feature touchscreen controls that let operators load preprogrammed recipes that automatically run at optimized cook times, temperature, and humidity, indicating when different menu items need to be put in the oven or taken out. Chefs can also create or load custom recipe settings that launch at the push of a button.
• Energy efficient – Exact cook times achieved from steam cooking also save energy. Additionally, some models automatically adjust temperatures to accommodate heat loss from the doors opening.

Call out: Due to their energy efficiency, some Combi ovens qualify for high-value energy rebates. Talk to your RH rep for details.

Also read: Speed, Power and Efficiency: A Starting Guide to Induction Ranges

What are the drawbacks?

• Cost – Combi ovens are much more expensive than conventional ovens, often running in the $20,000 to $50,000 range, and sometimes more depending on the size and features. In addition to intelligent cooking features, options like Rational’s iCombi offer smart savings. For example, it saves up to 70%* more energy, up to 50%* more time, over 30% more space, up to 20%* more raw ingredients, and as much as 95%* more fat and oil.

Call out: Read more about financing options here.

• Learning curve – While many models are designed to be as user-friendly as possible, integrating steam cooking into your kitchen production cycle can be challenging, especially for staff accustomed to traditional ovens.
• Cleaning – Combination ovens must be cleaned more often than regular ovens because of the increased amounts of condensation and liquified fat buildup. Fortunately, many models feature advanced self-cleaning features and cleaning solutions specifically designed for the task. 

Cooking modes

• Steam – Steam is injected into the oven, creating a humid environment. Use as you would a traditional steamer. Ideal for delicate ingredients such as fish and vegetables or proofing baked goods.
• Convection – This dry heat mode is perfect for baking, oven roasting, and oven frying any number of ingredients and meals.
• Combination – This mode merges convection and steam methods. Ideal for braising and certain types of baking, this mode lends you mastery over browning and textures.

Also read: Choosing Your Perfect Pizza Pan: 6 Simple Things to Consider

Uses of a Combi Oven

You can use a combination oven for any traditional dish made in a conventional convection oven or steamer. Additionally, the combination mode functions for various types of cooking and prep:

• Double boiler applications like tempering chocolate
• Proofing dough and bread or pastries
• Sanitizing cans and jars for preserves
• Batch sous vide cooking
• Rethermalizing or holding food at temperature

Sizes and model types

There are three basic unit types:

• Mini – Can be as small as a microwave and fits 3-5 pans.
• Tabletop – Midsize units ideal for smaller kitchens, food trucks, or mobile catering that fit 6-12 pans
• Floor Units – Full-size units for busy kitchens that fit 20+ pans.

Additionally, models are powered by either gas or electricity. Electric models are ideal for budget-minded buyers or kitchens in high altitudes. However, gas models are 50% more energy efficient than electric ones.

Optional features

• Grease control – Grease management mechanisms such as pumps that feed into a removable grease canister
• Ventless hood system – Ovens that can be located anywhere in the kitchen (check local food sanitation codes)
• Smoker baskets – Incorporate real wood chips to achieve smoky flavor profiles
• Barcode scanners – Scan food UPC codes to load preprogrammed recipes based on the food type

Also read: Everything You Need to Know About Ice Machines

Maintenance and Cleaning

Most manufacturers recommend servicing your combination oven every six months. Additionally, you will need to:

• Change the water filter every three to six months.
• Check the grease drain screen regularly and keep it free from obstructions.
• Clean and grease door seals.

Combination ovens require more cleaning than traditional models. Each unit has its quirks, so check the user manual before cleaning. In general:

• Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Use the self-cleaning feature with the appropriate cleaning tablets.
• Wipe down surfaces after use with a sponge or soft rag.
• Clean stubborn grease and dirt with a non-abrasive oven cleaner.

Ready to Invest?

A combination oven may be the perfect solution for your kitchen’s efficiency, and Russell Hendrix is here to ensure you get the most out of your investment. Your local RH rep can help select an appropriate combi oven model for your commercial kitchen space and work with you to optimize the rest of your kitchen workflow. They even have regular free demonstrations in most showrooms so you can see – and taste – the difference a combi oven can make to your operation.

Contact us today to learn more about how RH can help outfit your kitchen.

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