Setting Up Your Commercial Propane Griddle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Investing in a quality commercial propane griddle, like the Inferno Blaze or Inferno Blaze Premium from Kitchen Pro Restaurant Equipment, is a great decision for any busy kitchen. However, to get the most out of your new equipment, proper setup is essential. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your propane griddle is set up safely and efficiently, so you can get cooking in no time!

1. Unboxing and Inspecting the Griddle

Once your Inferno Blaze griddle arrives from Kitchen Pro Restaurant Equipment, carefully unbox it, making sure all parts and components are included. Check for any visible damage that may have occurred during shipping. Inspect the griddle surface, controls, and connectors to ensure everything is intact.

Pro Tip: Before setting it up, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the instruction manual. Each griddle model might have specific assembly requirements, especially the Inferno Blaze Premium, which offers advanced features.

2. Positioning the Griddle

Before connecting the propane supply, position your Inferno Blaze griddle in its designated spot in the kitchen. Be mindful of the following:

Ventilation: Ensure that the griddle is placed in a well-ventilated area, ideally under a commercial kitchen hood, to allow proper airflow and prevent overheating.
Counter Space: Ensure you have adequate counter space on either side of the griddle for ease of use during peak service times.
Clearances: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding how much clearance to leave between the griddle and nearby walls or other equipment. This is important for safety and to avoid damage from heat.

3. Connecting the Propane Supply

Once the griddle is in place, it’s time to connect the propane. For the Inferno Blaze and Inferno Blaze Premium, follow these steps:

Check the Propane Tank: Ensure that your propane tank is full and that all valves are in good working condition.
Use a Regulator: It’s essential to connect a regulator to control the flow of propane. Most Kitchen Pro Restaurant Equipment griddles come with this regulator, but if not, you can easily purchase one.
Tighten Connections: Carefully attach the propane hose to the regulator and the griddle’s gas inlet, making sure all connections are tight. Use a wrench if necessary to secure the fittings.

Pro Tip: After connecting the propane supply, check for leaks by applying a soapy water solution to the connections. If bubbles form, tighten the connections further.

4. Performing a Safety Check

Safety should always come first when working with propane-powered equipment. Before firing up the Inferno Blaze, perform a few critical safety checks:

Inspect the Burners: Ensure the burners are clean and unobstructed. Remove any debris that might have gathered during shipping.
Test the Ignition: Turn the control knobs to the ignition position to test the griddle’s electronic or manual ignition system. The Inferno Blaze Premium often includes more advanced ignition features, which should be checked according to the manual.
Check Flame Behavior: Light the griddle and observe the flame. It should be a steady blue flame, not flickering or yellow. Adjust the air shutter if necessary to correct the flame color.

5. Seasoning the Griddle

Seasoning your Inferno Blaze griddle is an essential step to ensure a non-stick surface and to prolong its lifespan. Follow these simple steps:

Clean the Surface: Use warm, soapy water to remove any residual oils or manufacturing coatings. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
Apply Oil: Once dry, apply a thin, even layer of cooking oil (vegetable or canola oil works well) across the entire surface.
Heat the Griddle: Turn on the griddle to medium heat and allow the oil to heat up. The oil will start to smoke and bond to the surface, creating a protective layer.
Repeat if Necessary: For the best results, repeat the seasoning process 2-3 times.

6. Setting the Temperature

One of the most crucial aspects of using a propane griddle is temperature control. Both the Inferno Blaze and Inferno Blaze Premium griddles from Kitchen Pro Restaurant Equipment feature precise temperature controls to ensure consistent cooking.

Adjust Heat Zones: For busy kitchens, it’s helpful to set up different heat zones on the griddle. For example, keep one side at high heat for searing meats and the other at medium heat for delicate items like eggs or pancakes.
Preheat Properly: Allow the griddle to preheat for 10-15 minutes before starting to cook. This ensures even heat distribution across the surface.

7. Final Setup Tips

Now that your Inferno Blaze propane griddle is set up and seasoned, you’re almost ready to start cooking. Here are a few final tips:

Invest in High-Quality Utensils: Use spatulas and scrapers designed for commercial griddles to avoid damaging the surface.
Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule: Wipe down the surface after each use and deep clean the griddle weekly. This keeps your griddle in top condition and ensures it lasts for years to come.
Train Your Staff: Make sure all staff members understand how to safely operate the propane griddle and perform basic maintenance.

Conclusion

Setting up your Inferno Blaze or Inferno Blaze Premium propane griddle from Kitchen Pro Restaurant Equipment doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you can ensure a smooth, safe setup process and maximize the performance of your griddle. With proper positioning, propane connection, safety checks, and seasoning, your griddle will be ready to handle the demands of your commercial kitchen, from breakfast to dinner service.

For high-quality equipment that delivers reliability and power, Kitchen Pro Restaurant Equipment has got you covered with the best commercial propane griddles on the market.