Should You Buy New or Used Restaurant Equipment?

Restaurant equipment is a big expense, so it’s important to make sure you invest in the right pieces. But is it better to buy brand new equipment? Or should you try to save money with used restaurant equipment? We’ll cover the pros and cons of both options in this article.

New Restaurant Equipment

Who doesn't want a kitchen outfitted with shiny, new restaurant equipment? New kitchen equipment has the latest features and requires less maintenance, but it also has the highest price tag. But if you shop smart, there are ways to offset the cost. Invest in pieces that do double duty, like combi ovens, instead of purchasing multiple units. Make sure to choose equipment with an Energy Star rating, and the cost savings on your utilities over time can help make up for the higher up-front cost of the equipment.

Do some comparison shopping and you’ll see that some equipment brands are more affordable than others but still offer great performance. Consider the volume of your operation and determine which areas can be served with an entry-level model.

Where to Buy New Restaurant Equipment?

Purchasing new equipment through reputable suppliers is essential for quality and service.

New Equipment Pros

• Warranties - New equipment most likely comes with a warranty that can help protect you if something goes wrong. Replacements and repairs may be covered, which saves you money and limits downtime.
• Energy Rebates - Energy-efficient models often qualify for rebates, which can offset the initial investment.
• Newest Tech - New equipment features the latest advancements, like WiFi-enabled options, which can reduce labor costs.
• Less Maintenance - New equipment should be free of defects and maintenance issues, which eliminates the hassle of dealing with costly repairs.

New Equipment Cons

• High Up-Front Costs - The obvious downside to purchasing new equipment is the cost. If you are starting a new restaurant, purchasing all new equipment is a considerable investment.
• Depreciation - When you are purchasing a new unit, the last thing on your mind is reselling it down the line. But it's good to keep in mind that new equipment depreciates more quickly than used, just like with cars.

Used Restaurant Equipment

Buying used equipment for your restaurant is a huge money-saver, but it does come with some risks. Second hand restaurant equipment could harbor unseen issues that result in costly repairs. That doesn't mean there aren't opportunities for huge discounts if you do your due diligence.

Where to Buy Used Restaurant Equipment?

One of the best places to buy used restaurant equipment is from a reputable dealer or online store. Many dealers test used equipment to make sure it’s operational before they put it up for sale.

Restaurant auctioneer companies handle the liquidation of entire restaurants that have been forced to shut down, which means you can find great deals on equipment at auction. Many auctioneers that specialize in restaurants employ trained technicians and will inspect and appraise the equipment before it is listed.

You can also find used equipment from private sellers. Between Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Craigslist, there are numerous sellers and a wide variety of name brand models to choose from. You can find amazing deals, but if you are purchasing used kitchen equipment from a private seller, be cautious. The seller may not be aware of all the issues with the equipment.

If you do find a great deal on a slightly used range from a private seller, just keep some of these tips in mind.

• Research the seller to see if they actually owned the equipment or if they are a reseller.
• Request to test out the equipment before purchasing and bring along your chef.
• Avoid buying second hand electrical equipment and stick with gas, which is easier to repair
• Be cautious when buying used refrigeration equipment because if something goes wrong, you could lose your food inventory to spoilage.
• Ovens, ranges, and fryers make the best second hand purchases because they have longevity.

Used Equipment Pros

Check out some of the benefits associated with purchasing used restaurant equipment:

• Save Money - The greatest benefit to buying used restaurant equipment is the cost savings. If you need to replace an old unit, you may not have the capital on hand for a new piece of equipment. If you're completely outfitting a new kitchen, cutting cost where you can is essential.
• Make Room in Your Budget - When you save money on equipment, you can allocate more of your budget to other parts of your business.
• Finding a Piece with Character - Maybe you’re looking for a specific look or feel with your equipment. For example, you could have your heart set on an old-style brick pizza oven.

Used Equipment Cons

Make sure to consider the potential risks when buying second hand restaurant equipment:

• Limited Availability - With used restaurant equipment, you must choose from a limited selection of second hand models.
• No Warranty or Ownership History - You’ll have no warranty to fall back on if your used equipment needs repaired.
• More Maintenance and Repairs - Older equipment breaks down more frequently and requires more maintenance.

Why Choose Premium Food Service Equipment?

1. Superior Quality: We offer durable, high-performance equipment built to last.

2. Energy Efficiency: Our products are designed to save on operational costs and support sustainability.

3. Custom Solutions: We tailor our equipment to fit your specific needs, ensuring a perfect match for your kitchen.

4. Exceptional Support: Our commitment extends beyond the sale, with comprehensive after-sales service and maintenance.

Ready to Upgrade Your Kitchen?

Don’t settle for less. Equip your kitchen with our top-of-the-line food service equipment and experience the difference. Contact us today to discover how we can transform your kitchen into a model of efficiency and productivity.

Visit our website or email us at [email protected] for more information and to start your kitchen transformation journey.