When it comes to commercial steam tables for healthcare facilities, choosing the right setup can make all the difference in keeping meals warm, safe, and ready to serve. Here’s how to select the right type of wells based on your kitchen layout, electrical setup, and serving style.
Understanding the Basics
Steam tables typically come in gas or electric models. While gas is still available, most healthcare kitchens choose electric for convenience and safety. When you receive a quote, it’s important to confirm the voltage your facility uses. Most standard models operate on 120 volts, but some kitchens are equipped for 208 volt commercial outlets. Always check before ordering to avoid installation issues.
Two of the most popular manufacturers of steam tables are Duke, a long-standing industry standard, and Atosa, a newer brand that’s gaining attention for quality and value. Atosa rivals top-tier brands, backed by solid in-house service support.
Open Well vs. Sealed Well Steam Tables
When choosing between open well and sealed well units, the key difference lies in how the water is managed.
- Open well steam tables With an open well steam table, you place a hotel pan filled with water under the food pan. They don’t have built-in drains. They’re a simple, affordable choice, especially for dining rooms or smaller serving areas but require manual emptying after use.
- Sealed well steam tables include built-in drains in each well, allowing you to pour water directly inside the unit. This design provides more even heating and easier cleanup. The built-in drain makes them ideal for busy kitchens where efficiency matters most.
If your kitchen team uses the steam table for plating or loading carts, sealed wells are usually worth the investment.
Customizing for Your Space and Service
Before ordering, it’s essential to ask: where will this steam table be used: kitchen or dining room? That determines whether you need features like:
- Sneeze guards or overshelves (for self-service or buffet-style dining)
- Tray slides for easy movement during meal service
- Covers on one or both sides for flexible use
For kitchen use, a simple overshelf works well for holding pots or trays. In dining rooms, glass guards that tilt upward help with self-service while maintaining hygiene standards.
Some facilities also pair their steam table with a heated cabinet underneath. It’s a cost-effective way to keep backup pans warm and ready to reload during mealtimes. If mobility is a priority, a mobile heated cabinet can provide similar functionality while saving space and budget.
The important things to be aware of is as follows: what use the steam table will be, where it will be used, what your system is when it comes to meal delivery systems, and how you serve the food.
Why Commercial Steam Tables Matter in Healthcare
Reliable commercial steam tables for healthcare facilities are an essential part of meal service. The right setup helps dietary teams deliver consistent, temperature safe meals, whether serving residents directly or preparing trays for transport.
By selecting the correct voltage, well type, and layout for your workflow, your team can improve efficiency and reduce daily stress during service times.
Smarter Equipment Decisions with Platform Solutions
At Platform Solutions, we help healthcare facilities make informed, budget-conscious decisions on everything from commercial steam tables for healthcare facilities to refrigerators, respirators, and wheelchairs. Our platform streamlines the purchasing process by managing quotes, specs, approvals, and vendor communication, all in one place.
We’re proud to work with trusted partners to bring high-quality foodservice equipment to the facilities we serve.
Ready to simplify your purchasing process? Visit Platform Solutions to see how our platform can help you buy smarter, faster, and with total confidence.
