Combination Oven Buying Guide

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Dough in Oven
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A combination oven is a versatile cooking appliance that can perform multiple functions, including convection cooking, steam cooking, and traditional baking. It's a great addition to any kitchen.

To choose the right combination oven for your needs, consider the capacity. A larger oven can accommodate bigger dishes, but it also takes up more space in your kitchen. For example, a 24-inch wide oven can fit a 15-inch by 20-inch baking sheet.

When deciding on a combination oven, think about the type of cooking you'll be doing most often. If you're a baker, look for an oven with precise temperature control and a large interior space. This will allow you to achieve perfect results for your bread, cakes, and pastries.

A combination oven with a steam function can also help to prevent overcooking and promote even cooking. This is especially useful for cooking delicate foods like fish and vegetables.

What Is a Combination Oven

Credit: youtube.com, Combination ovens or Combination microwave?

A combination oven is essentially a single appliance that combines the functions of a conventional oven and a microwave. It's designed to save space in your kitchen by replacing multiple appliances with one.

Combination ovens can be either built-in or countertop models, with built-in models often requiring professional installation. They come in a range of sizes, from compact to large, to suit different kitchen layouts.

One key benefit of combination ovens is their energy efficiency, which can help reduce your utility bills. They use less energy than traditional ovens and microwaves used separately.

Some combination ovens feature advanced cooking technologies, such as convection cooking and steam cooking, which can result in perfectly cooked meals. These features can be especially useful for cooking delicate foods like fish or vegetables.

Combination ovens are also known for their versatility, allowing you to cook a wide range of dishes, from roasted meats to steamed vegetables. They're perfect for busy home cooks who need to prepare meals quickly and efficiently.

Features and Benefits

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Combination ovens are equipped with advanced technology, including programmable settings and touch-screen controls, making them easier to use and improving cooking precision.

These features allow for consistent results, which is crucial in a commercial kitchen setting. By using both steam and convection, you can preserve flavors and nutrients, resulting in a higher-quality finished product.

A combination oven can function as a convection oven, a steamer, or a combination of both, making it valuable in any commercial kitchen. With advanced features and accessories, these high-performance commercial combi ovens are built tough to support and connect the most demanding kitchens.

The versatility of combination ovens is due to the three cooking modes they offer: convection mode, steam mode, and combination mode. These modes allow for faster cooking and more flavor retention.

Here are some benefits of combi ovens:

  • Condense your cook line by replacing multiple appliances with one unit.
  • Cook more with one oven, reducing the need for multiple units on your cook line.
  • Precise temperature and moisture control for maximum customization.
  • Programmable menus for easy recipe input and loading.
  • Increased food yields by preserving flavors and nutrients.

Combination ovens are a boon for commercial kitchens where space is at a premium, allowing you to replace several appliances with just one unit.

Types of Combination Ovens

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There are three main types of combination ovens: boiler, boilerless, and hybrid. Each type has its unique features and benefits.

Boiler ovens are best suited for high-volume restaurants, offering precise humidity control by heating an enclosed water tank.

Boilerless models, on the other hand, generate steam by injecting water on a hot surface, making them more energy-efficient but less precise.

Hybrid ovens offer the best of both worlds, providing flexibility and precision that's hard to beat.

Here's a quick rundown of the main differences between the three types:

  • Boiler ovens: Best for high-volume restaurants
  • Boilerless ovens: Less powerful, but more economical
  • Hybrid ovens: Offer flexibility and precision

Types of Steamer: Boilerless, Hybrid

Boilerless combi ovens are a cost-effective option, making them suitable for smaller kitchens or operations with limited space. They're also easier to install and maintain, as they don't require additional plumbing and maintenance associated with a steam generator.

Boilerless combi ovens generate steam by injecting water directly onto a heated surface, which is a more energy-efficient process than traditional boiler-based models. This means they're a great choice for restaurants or kitchens that want to save on energy costs.

Credit: youtube.com, CPG Combi Ovens

A key benefit of boilerless combi ovens is their compact size, which makes them perfect for smaller kitchens or restaurants with limited space. They're also a great option for restaurants that don't need to cook in high volumes.

Hybrid combi ovens offer the best of both worlds, combining the precision of boiler-based models with the energy efficiency of boilerless models. They're a great choice for restaurants that need to cook a wide variety of dishes, as they offer flexibility and precision.

Here's a comparison of boilerless and hybrid combi ovens:

Converge

Converge multi-cook combi ovens feature up to three combis in one ventless footprint.

These ovens allow you to steam, bake, and air fry all at the same time.

With Converge, you can cook multiple dishes simultaneously without worrying about flavor or moisture transfer between chambers.

This is especially useful for busy kitchens where space is limited and efficiency is key.

Convection

Convection is a cooking method that relies on heat circulation to cook food. This means that hot air is circulated around the food to cook it evenly.

Credit: youtube.com, Microwave with Convection Cooking | KitchenAid

A traditional convection oven uses this method to cook food, but it can be limited in its capabilities. It's great for baking and roasting, but it's not as versatile as other cooking methods.

Convection cooking is often faster than other methods, as the circulating hot air helps to cook the food more efficiently. This can be a big advantage in busy kitchens.

For more insights, see: Natural Oven Cleaning Methods

Control and Interface

The ABC7-P combi oven is designed for ease of use, making it perfect for kitchens where turnover is a challenge.

You can onboard new hires quickly, as anyone with basic convection oven skills already knows how to use this combi. Operators can simply choose temperature and time, and the optimal humidity is autoset.

The controls are intuitive, allowing you to adjust settings with ease, such as the auto-set humidity, which can be adjusted with a simple dial turn.

Touch Screen vs Dial Pad

Touch screen combi ovens are ideal for high-volume kitchens with large menus, as they allow for quick adjustment of cooking conditions and intuitive addition of menu items.

Pizza In Oven
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Touchscreen controls also come with more smart technology and are more programmable, making them a great option for kitchens that need to handle complex menus and recipes.

On the other hand, combi ovens with dial controls are easy to use and ideal for uncomplicated menus. They feature knobs that allow the user to adjust the time, temperature, and humidity with ease.

Some combi oven models will feature both dial knobs and a touchscreen panel for a higher level of control, offering the best of both worlds.

Here's a comparison of the two control types:

Easy Controls for Versatility

The ABC7-P combi oven boasts easy controls that make it a versatile workhorse in the kitchen. It's perfect for preparing a wide range of dishes, from grilled steaks with caramelized crusts to baked goods with flaky crusts.

You can control every setting with ease, thanks to the intuitive design of the oven. Adjusting the auto-set humidity is as simple as turning a dial, and you can cook to exact temperatures with the integrated food probe.

Baked Pizza on Pizza Peel in Oven
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The oven's simplicity is also a major advantage when it comes to onboarding new staff. Anyone with basic convection oven skills can quickly learn to use the ABC7-P, eliminating frustration and allowing your kitchen to start experiencing the benefits of combi cooking right away.

Here are some key features that make the ABC7-P's controls so easy to use:

  • Auto-set humidity based on temperature
  • Integrated cooking probe for precise temperature control
  • Multispeed fan for even results
  • Preprogrammed humidity settings for added convenience

With these features, you can trust that your new staff will be able to use the oven with confidence, and you'll be able to focus on creating delicious dishes for your customers.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your combination oven continues working for many years.

Taking the time to maintain your combi oven will save you money in the long run.

Some models come with self-cleaning features, which can save time and effort.

You should check if the manufacturer provides a maintenance guide or offers professional servicing.

Keeping your combination oven clean and well-maintained will also help prevent costly repairs.

Consider how easy it is to clean and maintain a combination oven when buying one.

Commercial Considerations

Credit: youtube.com, Chef's Dish: Combi Oven vs. Convection Oven: Which is Right For You?

When selecting a combination oven for your commercial kitchen, it's crucial to evaluate your kitchen's requirements and your chefs' preferences. This includes factoring the utility type, the inclusion of a broiler, and the preferred dial settings.

Your chefs' preferences are a top priority, so consider their cooking styles and techniques when choosing a combination oven. You'll want to ensure the oven can accommodate their needs and provide the desired cooking results.

The type of utility available is also a key consideration. If you have high elevation, an electric commercial combi oven is a better option. However, if you have open burners, a gas commercial combi oven is the way to go.

Here are some key features to consider in a combination oven:

  • Pressureless steam
  • Convected heat
  • Combination of both

By considering these factors, you'll be able to find the perfect combination oven for your commercial kitchen and streamline your workflow.

Energy Star Certified

Selecting energy-efficient equipment is a crucial commercial consideration.

Alto-Shaam's Prodigi combi oven models have earned the EPA's ENERGY STAR certification.

This certification indicates that these ovens meet strict energy efficiency standards.

The ENERGY STAR flyer provides estimated savings for using these certified models.

ENERGY STAR certification can lead to significant cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint.

Other Commercial Equipment

Credit: youtube.com, 4 Factors to Consider When Picking Commercial Kitchen Equipment

Commercial kitchens often require a variety of specialized equipment to meet their needs. One area to consider is the type of oven you'll need. Electric commercial combi ovens and gas commercial combi ovens are great options, as they combine three cooking methods in one unit, allowing for pressureless steam, convected heat, and a combination of both.

A commercial combi oven can replace your existing steam and convection oven, saving storage space and having a smaller footprint. Electric and gas combi oven styles are available, each with their own special features.

If you're in a high-elevation area, an electric combi oven is a good choice because it's less affected by the lower oxygen levels. Electric combi ovens are also more affordable upfront, making them a great option for businesses on a budget.

Some types of commercial ovens to consider include convection oven parts and accessories, conveyor oven parts and accessories, and cook and hold oven parts and accessories.

Here's an interesting read: Light Avanti Gas Oven

Credit: youtube.com, National Restaurant Association Show 2019: Top Commercial Kitchen Equipment Innovations

Here are some other types of commercial equipment you may want to consider:

  • Conveyor Oven Parts and Accessories
  • Cook and Hold Oven Parts and Accessories
  • Smoker Parts and Accessories
  • Ventless Ovens
  • Pizza Deck Ovens
  • Countertop Pizza Ovens
  • Rotisserie Ovens
  • Indoor Smokers & Pig Roasters
  • Bakery Convection Ovens
  • Bakery Deck Ovens

Gas combi ovens are a good choice for high production volume kitchens, as they heat up quickly and can increase productivity. They can also be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if natural gas is less expensive in your area.

Our Commercial

Our Commercial Combi Ovens are designed to meet the demands of busy commercial kitchens. They offer a range of features that make them ideal for cooking large quantities of food.

You can cook up to 40 full-size hotel pans or GN 1/1 pans in a single unit, making them perfect for high-volume kitchens. This space-saving design allows you to cook more food in less space, which is a major advantage in commercial kitchens where every inch counts.

One of the key benefits of our commercial combi ovens is their versatility. They can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including baking, roasting, steaming, and more. This means you can use a single oven to perform multiple tasks, which can help to streamline your workflow and reduce labor costs.

Chef in apron working in a modern kitchen, using an oven to prepare food.
Credit: pexels.com, Chef in apron working in a modern kitchen, using an oven to prepare food.

Some of the types of commercial ovens we offer include Convection Oven Parts and Accessories, Conveyor Oven Parts and Accessories, and Rapid Cook / High Speed Oven Parts and Accessories. We also offer specialty ovens like Smoker Parts and Accessories, Ventless Ovens, and Countertop Pizza Ovens.

Here are some of the different types of commercial ovens we offer:

  • Convection Oven Parts and Accessories
  • Conveyor Oven Parts and Accessories
  • Cook and Hold Oven Parts and Accessories
  • Multi-Cook Ovens
  • Rapid Cook / High Speed Oven Parts and Accessories
  • Smoker Parts and Accessories
  • Ventless Ovens
  • Pizza Deck Ovens
  • Countertop Pizza Ovens
  • Rotisserie Ovens
  • Indoor Smokers & Pig Roasters
  • Bakery Convection Ovens
  • Bakery Deck Ovens
  • Rapid Cook / High Speed Hybrid Ovens

Our commercial combi ovens are available in both electric and gas styles, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

Buying and Choosing

Buying a combination oven for a commercial kitchen requires careful consideration of several factors. Efficiency and versatility are key in commercial kitchens, where equipment can make or break an operation.

In choosing the right combination oven, it's essential to think about your specific needs and circumstances. The best oven for your kitchen depends on these factors.

Here are the main types of combination ovens to consider: TypeNumber of OptionsElectric8Liquid Propane2Natural Gas2

Sizing

Close-up of Built-in Ovens in a Contemporary Kitchen
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of Built-in Ovens in a Contemporary Kitchen

Sizing is a crucial factor to consider when buying a commercial combination oven. You'll want to think about the available dimensions and volume output of your kitchen.

The size of the oven will depend on the type of operation you have. For small operations like kiosks and snack stands, a mini combi oven with no more than six shelves and accommodating between 3 - 5 pans is ideal.

For lower-volume operations like quick-service restaurants or food trucks, a tabletop combi oven with 6 - 12 shelves for half-size sheet pans and full-size hotel pans is a good choice.

In high-volume kitchens that depend on preparing a lot of products and meeting high-quality standards, a floor model combi oven with at least 20 shelves for holding 20 full-size sheet pans or 40 hotel pans is necessary.

You can also choose between half-size and full-size models, which refer to the pan size they can hold on their shelves. Half-size sheet pans are 18" x 13", while full-size pans are 26" x 18".

Here are the three main sizes of commercial combination ovens:

  • Mini Combi Ovens: ideal for small operations, accommodating 3 - 5 pans
  • Tabletop Combi Ovens: suitable for lower-volume operations, accommodating 6 - 12 shelves
  • Floor Model Combi Ovens: necessary for high-volume kitchens, accommodating at least 20 shelves

Accessories

Through glass of tasty burger with cutlet and cheese served on white plate in hot oven on rack while roasting
Credit: pexels.com, Through glass of tasty burger with cutlet and cheese served on white plate in hot oven on rack while roasting

When choosing accessories for your combi oven, consider Alto-Shaam's assortment of oven accessories, which includes pans, cleaning supplies, stacking kits, stands, and more.

You can achieve ultimate menu variety with Alto-Shaam's oven accessories, setting your foodservice operation up for success.

Combi oven accessories can help you streamline your kitchen operations and increase efficiency.

Alto-Shaam's assortment of oven accessories is designed to make your life easier, from cooking to cleaning and everything in between.

You can find a variety of stacking kits and stands to help you maximize your oven's capacity and make the most of your space.

Cleaning supplies are also a must-have when it comes to maintaining your combi oven and keeping it in top working condition.

What to Look for When Buying Commercial Kitchen Appliances

When buying commercial kitchen appliances, efficiency and versatility are key in a bustling kitchen environment.

In commercial kitchens, the equipment you choose can make or break your operation, so it's essential to make informed decisions.

Recommended read: Commercial Microwave Ovens

Credit: youtube.com, DO YOU KNOW How to Choose Commercial Kitchen Equipment?

The combination oven is a game-changer, offering space-saving benefits and improved workflow with its ability to bake, roast, steam, and more.

For a commercial kitchen, the right combination oven depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

Consider the fuel type: electric, liquid propane, or natural gas. Here's a breakdown:

Pay attention to the brand's reputation and customer reviews, as they provide real-world insights into the oven's performance. Established brands like Vulcan often offer reliable products and excellent customer service.

Model and Features

Our combination oven models come equipped with advanced technology features that make a big difference in a commercial kitchen setting. These features include programmable settings and touch-screen controls.

These features make the oven easier to use and improve cooking precision, allowing for consistent results.

Prodigi Pro

Prodigi Pro is a game-changer for commercial kitchens. It's a Wi-Fi enabled control that lets you customize your oven to your heart's content.

This means you can manage your oven remotely, which is a huge time-saver. You can make adjustments and monitor performance without having to be physically present.

Credit: youtube.com, Prodigi Pro: How to Preheat the Oven

Prodigi Pro also comes with cloud-based management, which gives you access to valuable insights and data. This helps you optimize your cooking processes and make informed decisions.

The oven's smoking feature is another standout feature. It allows you to add a smoky flavor to your dishes, which is perfect for chefs who want to add a unique twist to their recipes.

Grease collection and liquid clean options are also available, which can help you save money on maintenance and cleaning costs.

Prodigi Classic

The Prodigi Classic is a great option for streamlined food production. It features a simple touchscreen control.

This standard combi option allows for easy addition of extra features. You can program recipes for efficient food preparation.

The Prodigi Classic is a reliable choice for restaurants and kitchens. It's a great starting point for those who want to upgrade their cooking capabilities.

Model: ABC7E-P Stacked

The ABC7E-P Stacked model is a great option for those with limited floor space, as it's a compact 7 rack combination oven steamer that still offers plenty of cooking capabilities. This model is perfect for cooking pastured, free-range chicken to perfection.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Luxury Microwave with Fast Cooking

Credit: youtube.com, Vulcan ABC Combi Oven - Feature Overview

With its grab-and-go racks, accessing pans is a breeze, making cooking and serving a hassle-free process. The stainless steel Grab-n-Go Racks have a cutout design that measures 15 1/2" x 3 1/4" for easy access.

The flashing door lights and audible alarm system alert the user when the cooking cycle is finished, so you'll never forget when your dish is done cooking. This feature is especially useful for those who are short on time or multitasking in the kitchen.

The large LED displays on the ABC7E-P Stacked model make it easy to control temperature, time, and humidity with precision. The temperature range is 80-450°F, the timer range is continuous up to 23:59 hours and minutes, and the humidity range is 0-100%.

This model requires some clearance on the left, back, and right sides, with a minimum of 1", 4", and 3" respectively, and a recommended 18" on the right side for service access.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the disadvantages of a combi oven?

Combi ovens can be costly to purchase and install, with high maintenance expenses due to frequent filter and valve replacements.

What is the difference between convection oven and combination oven?

A convection oven provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked goods, while a combination oven, also known as a combi oven, uses steam to retain moisture and keep food tender and juicy. The choice between the two depends on your cooking needs and preferences.

Roger Molenaar

Senior Writer

Roger Molenaar is a writer who loves to explore the world and write about his experiences. He has been traveling for years, having visited over 50 countries around the globe. His passion for learning about different cultures and meeting new people is evident in his writing, which often features insights into local customs and traditions.

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