Maintaining commercial kitchen and industrial equipment requires more than routine cleaning—it demands accurate diagnostics. Choosing the correct replacement part not only saves time and money but also prevents unexpected downtime. In this guide, we break down the best method to inspect equipment parts and confidently determine which component requires replacement.

1. Start With a Visual Inspection

A visual check is the fastest and easiest first step. Look for:

• Burn marks, cracks, or corrosion

• Loose wires or connectors

• Leaking seals, gaskets, or valves

• Bent or damaged metal components

Many failures leave clear visual signs, especially heating elements, solenoid valves, motors, and electronic boards.

2. Verify the Symptoms of the Equipment

Every malfunction points to a specific part. Understanding the symptom helps narrow down the possibilities.
Examples:

• Equipment not heating → could indicate a heating element, thermostat, or high-limit issue.

• Weak or inconsistent ice production → may point to a probe, water valve, fan motor, or control board.

• Pump not running → could be a capacitor, motor failure, or blockage.

Match the behavior of the machine with common known failures.

3. Check for Error Codes or Control Panel Alerts

Modern equipment (oven controls, fryers, ice machines, dishwashers) includes diagnostic systems.
Error codes usually reveal specific problems such as:

• Sensor failure

• High-limit trip

• Ignition issues

• Low water pressure

• Communication failure between boards

Always reference the manufacturer’s manual or service guide to decode the alert.

4. Use Basic Testing Tools

Having basic diagnostic tools helps you confirm the faulty component:

• Multimeter (for checking voltage, continuity, and resistance)

• Clamp meter (for checking motor loads)

• Thermometer/thermocouple (for checking temperature accuracy)

• Pressure gauge (for steam or water systems)

If a part shows no continuity, incorrect resistance, or no voltage output, it is likely the failed component.

5. Compare Readings to Manufacturer Specifications

Every part has a manufacturer-defined range:

• Heating elements have specific resistance values

• Sensors have acceptable temperature curves

• Motors have rated amperage

• Valves have correct inlet/outlet flow

If a reading falls outside the specification, the part must be replaced.

6. Test the Machine After Isolating the Suspected Part

If possible, disconnect or bypass the suspected part (following safety procedures).
Examples:

• Unplugging a fan motor to see if the noise stops.

• Bypassing a door switch to confirm a control board issue.

• Disconnecting a probe to isolate temperature-related faults.

This helps confirm whether the part is the true cause.

7. Always Verify Model and Part Compatibility

Ordering the correct part requires checking:

• Model number

• Serial number

• Voltage and wattage

• Manufacturer part number

Even small differences (e.g., 208V vs. 240V or left-hand vs. right-hand actuator) can cause problems.

8. Replace With Genuine OEM Parts

Using original OEM parts ensures:

• Correct performance

• Long lifespan

• Full compatibility

• Better safety and compliance

Non-OEM parts may cause failures, void warranties, and reduce efficiency.

9. Perform a Final System Test After Replacement

After installing the new part:

• Run a full equipment cycle

• Check for leaks, noise, temperature accuracy, and stability

• Reset error codes if needed

• Confirm the machine returns to normal performance

A proper test ensures the problem is completely resolved.

Conclusion

Finding the right part to replace doesn’t have to be complicated. By following structured diagnostics—visual checks, symptom analysis, error codes, meter testing, and compatibility verification—you can confidently identify the correct component every time. This approach reduces downtime, prevents unnecessary replacements, and keeps your equipment performing at its best.

If you need OEM parts, technical support, or help finding the exact component for your model, our team is ready to assist Contact us now!