Kitchen Equipment Repair in Chicago, IL

Chicago has a robust food service industry with verified kitchen equipment technicians available for all types of commercial equipment repair and maintenance. HotSide connects you with local professionals for oven repair, refrigeration service, ice machine cleaning, exhaust hood cleaning, and preventive maintenance programs.

Kitchen equipment repair costs in Chicago, IL vary based on the equipment type, issue severity, and contractor rates. Local providers listed on HotSide offer competitive pricing and free estimates. Contact multiple providers to compare quotes for your specific equipment and situation.

Yes, several kitchen equipment technicians in Chicago offer 24/7 emergency services for critical equipment failures. Check individual provider profiles on HotSide for emergency service availability and response times. We recommend saving emergency contact numbers before you need them — especially for refrigeration emergencies where food inventory is at stake.

Kitchen equipment technicians in IL should hold CFESA certification or manufacturer certifications from brands like Rational, Hobart, or Manitowoc. EPA 608 certification is required for refrigerant handling. Gas technicians need appropriate gas fitting licenses. All providers listed on HotSide are verified for proper licensing and insurance. Always verify current certification status before hiring any technician.

Common causes include: faulty igniter or ignition module, failed heating element (electric ovens), thermostat or temperature probe failure, gas valve issues, or clogged burner ports. Start by checking error codes on the control panel if equipped. If the oven lights but doesn't reach temperature, the thermostat or temperature probe is often the culprit. A certified technician can diagnose the root cause quickly.

Ice quality issues often indicate water system or refrigeration problems: cloudy ice suggests poor water quality or mineral content; soft ice indicates inadequate freeze cycle time or refrigerant issues; small or misshapen cubes typically point to low water flow, scale buildup on evaporator plates, or refrigerant problems. All of these issues affect the safety and quality of ice used in beverages and food service.

Hood cleaning costs range from $300 to $1,500+ depending on system size, grease accumulation, and accessibility. Small single-hood systems run $300-$500; larger multi-hood systems or restaurants with heavy cooking can run $700-$1,500. Access issues (long duct runs, high roofs) add cost. Budget for cleaning as a fixed operating expense — it's far less expensive than a grease fire, insurance claims, or health violations.

Reduced ice production is usually caused by: mineral scale buildup on evaporator plates reducing heat transfer, dirty condenser coils reducing refrigeration efficiency, warm ambient temperature in the equipment room, low refrigerant levels, or water flow problems. The fix for scale buildup is professional cleaning and descaling. Other issues require a technician. Never ignore reduced production — it often progresses to complete failure.