Configuration decisions
Choose the format for the job.
Well count, pan format and operating mode
Compare well count, compatible pan depth and wet or dry operation for the exact table. Check site services, drain arrangement and the pans actually included.
Plan the complete installed configuration
Confirm electrical or gas supply, water arrangement and serving access. Check table, pans, lids and optional serving components. Use the actual dimensional drawing and installation manual before ordering.
Measure twice. Choose once.
Fit means more than equipment width.
Exterior & operating footprint
Electrical or gas supply, water arrangement and serving access. Use the exact model’s dimensional drawing and installation instructions.
Capacity & access
Well count, pan format and operating mode. Confirm the actual model’s usable configuration rather than relying on the category name.
Doorway & delivery route
Measure entrances, corridors, turns, stairs and elevators. Obtain packaged dimensions and weight as well as installed dimensions. Confirm delivery and placement arrangements before ordering.
Electrical supply & receptacle
Check the exact model’s voltage, frequency, phase, rated current, plug and circuit requirements against the site supply and installation manual.
Ventilation & installation space
Confirm intake and discharge locations, required clearances and ambient limits. Preserve access for cleaning and service. An illustrative image does not establish installation clearance.
Fuel, water & site connections
Confirm the exact model’s gas type or electrical supply. For equipment that uses water or steam, verify water quality, filling and drainage instructions. Use qualified installation support where required by the manufacturer and site.
Capacity, output & included components
Well count, pan format and operating mode. Table, pans, lids and optional serving components. Read the exact listing and manufacturer documents before comparing models.
Legs, levelling & installed height
Check supplied legs or feet, complete installed height and the manufacturer’s levelling, mounting and movement instructions. Confirm any separate support or mounting components.
Operation & ownership
Look beyond the purchase price.
Energy & operating information
Compare documented energy information and operating conditions for the exact model. Review fuel or electrical input and the operating conditions behind output or capacity figures. Compare like cooking tasks under the same documented conditions.
Cleaning & maintenance
Review the exact manual’s cleaning, sanitizing, surface care and service intervals. Plan access to food-contact areas and removable parts, and use the specified products and procedures.
Commercial approvals & suitability
Verify certification and intended use on the actual model’s documentation. Confirm suitability for the proposed application where required; do not assume collection-wide approval.
Warranty, parts & Canadian service
Confirm current Canadian warranty terms, exclusions, installation obligations, claim procedures and local service arrangements for the exact model. Ask about parts and consumables before ordering.
Before ordering
Compare the exact models.
Use current product information and manufacturer documents for every shortlisted model. This checklist is a decision aid; it does not assign specifications to the collection.
Your category checklist
- Well count, pan format and operating mode
- Electrical or gas supply, water arrangement and serving access
- Table, pans, lids and optional serving components
- Delivery route, cleaning access and current support terms
Related equipment
Complete the cooking station.
Explore the existing collections for alternative cooking, baking and holding formats.
Frequently asked questions
A few questions before ordering.
What are commercial steam tables used for?
Steam tables are used to hold prepared foods hot during service—common for buffets, cafeterias, catering lines, and banquet staging.
Do steam tables cook food?
Steam tables are designed for hot holding, not primary cooking. Food should be cooked to proper temperatures first, then held safely for service.
Moist heat vs dry use—what’s the difference?
Moist heat uses water to create gentle heat that can help reduce drying. Dry use holds pans without water and is used in some service setups—always follow the manufacturer’s guidance for your unit.
What should I check before buying?
Confirm pan capacity, electrical requirements, accessory needs (sneeze guard/overshelf), available space, and cleaning workflow.
Continental Restaurant Equipment
Let’s choose the right equipment.
Share your shortlisted models, service demand and site measurements. We can help identify the information to confirm before you order.
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