Thornton Company

Chemical dispensing problems are typically caused by: clogged or faulty chemical pumps, incorrect dilution ratios, empty chemical containers, broken injection lines, or control board issues. In low-temperature machines, proper chemical concentration is essential for sanitization — test strips should verify concentration after every repair. Many chemical distributors offer free testing; alternatively, a technician can verify and repair the dispensing system.

Critical food safety temperatures: Cold holding — 40°F (4°C) or below for refrigeration; freezer 0°F (-18°C) or below. Hot holding — 140°F (60°C) or above for steam tables and food warmers. Cooking temperatures vary by food type (145°F-165°F). Dishwasher final rinse — 180°F (82°C) for high-temp machines. Any equipment consistently failing to maintain these temperatures is both a safety risk and a health code violation.

Commercial oven repair costs range from $200 to $2,000+ depending on the issue. Common repairs: igniter replacement $200-$400, thermostat or temperature probe $250-$500, gas valve replacement $350-$700, control board $600-$1,500, heating element (electric) $200-$600. Diagnostic fees of $100-$200 are typically applied to the repair total.