Operation, Cleaning, and Lubrication tips to help extend your commercial mixer’s life
The most common issue with planetary mixers is overloading them. An overloaded mixer can damage your motor and even break your dough hook or wire whip. If your mixer sounds louder than usual, turn it off and reduce the batch size. You should always determine your absorption ratio (the weight of the water divided by the weight of the flour) before using a planetary mixer. Refer to the mixer’s capacity chart located in the instruction manual. Keep in mind, the mixture will expand in the bowl so you need to leave extra space for the product to mix properly.
ALWAYS follow the proper absorption ratio
NEVER overload your mixer
OPERATION:
ALWAYS know your mixer capacity
NEVER overload the mixer
NEVER fill the bowl to the brim
ALWAYS make sure your staff is properly trained on operating and cleaning your mixer
ALWAYS make sure bowl clamps are locked into place
ALWAYS turn your mixer off before changing speeds
NEVER shift gears while the mixer is running
NEVER use attachments on the hub while mixing
CLEANING:
NEVER use a water hose or pressure wash your mixer
NEVER use steel wool, scrubber pads or abrasive materials
NEVER use bleach or bleach-based cleaner
ALWAYS properly dilute detergent and sanitizer per supplier’s instruction
ALWAYS clean the agitators, bowl, bowl guard, and rear splash guard after each use
ALWAYS clean the exterior at least once a day
ALWAYS use a cleaning checklist
ALWAYS read and follow the cleaning instructions in the owner’s manual
LUBRICATION:
ALWAYS clean your mixer BEFORE applying any oil
ALWAYS use food-grade oils with routine tasks such as removing attachments
ALWAYS lubricate the planetary shaft after every cleaning
ALWAYS lubricate the bowl rails at least once a month
NEVER use oils that are not food grade