Proper installation plays a critical role in maximizing the service life of foodservice equipment.

Jeremy MillerBut installing a piece of equipment is often easier said than done. It can require coordination among multiple project team members, landlords and more. Jeremy Miller of Cold Tex, a Terrell, Texas-based service company specializing in HVAC, refrigeration and draft beer systems, offers some tips on ensuring a smooth install.

Q: What’s it like coordinating an install in older, more historic buildings?

A: It is very complicated because you are working in an established operation. We have a customer where we work on their hoods and fire-suppression system. These items impact various aspects of the restaurant including roofing, plumbing and electrical. Sometimes when we tear open the ceiling, we find problems like mold, asbestos and more that can significantly lengthen the project because you have to bring other parts of the facility up to code.

Q: Installing equipment is more complicated than it may seem. Ice machines, for example, would seem straightforward. They need water, electricity and a drain. But there’s more to it than that, right? 

A: There’s lots of factors that go into installing a piece of equipment like an ice machine. For example, is the unit remote or air cooled? Do we have to run refrigeration lines to the roof? Are there water lines at the spot of installation or will new ones be required? Given there’s so many moving parts, your service agent can become a general contractor, so to speak.

Q: We’ve established that it’s a lot harder to install a piece of equipment than it appears. So, how would a seasoned service agent suggest starting the process?

A: A site survey is almost always needed. When doing a survey be sure to gather as much information about the utilities as you can. Is the water line hooked up to the equipment? Is there a gas feed or an electric feed to the spot and are these utilities sized correctly for the equipment? How easy is it to get the equipment in or out of the building? I’ve had jobs in the past where we’ve had to take down walls to remove a piece of equipment. 

Q: Any closing thoughts or advice you’d like to share when it comes to ensuring a smooth installation?

A: Communicate properly on the front end. Be sure to include certain components that could impact a fast and efficient install. Sometimes properly trained people don’t know what they don’t know when it comes to installing a simple ice machine. It needs water, drain, power and, if the compressor goes on a roof, a roof penetration. This all factors into understanding how long it will take to complete the install, how many trades will be involved, their role and timing in the process and more.