Garland Griddle Cleaning Instructions
Garland griddles offer precise temperature control and durable steel construction, making them centerpieces of commercial kitchen operations. Since routine care is a must for effective use and proper hygiene, this set of Garland griddle cleaning instructions will help you keep your equipment performing at its best.
This guide is for ED electric and G24 gas series units, such as the ED-24G and G24-24G.
Supplies
- Warm Water
- Mild Detergent
- Cleaning Cloths or Sponges
- Stainless Steel Cleaner
- Powdered Stainless Steel Cleaner (for removing heat tint on stainless steel)
- Stainless Steel Scouring Pads
- Spatula (for griddle plates)
- Fine Griddle Brick (for griddle plates)
- Liquid Griddle Cleaner (for griddle plates)
Pre-Cleaning Procedure
Remember to unplug models with power cords before cleaning.
- Step 1. Turn off the griddle - Power down electric models by rotating each temperature control knob to the off position. For gas models, rotate the thermostat dials to the off position, but don’t extinguish the pilot flame.
- Step 2. Unplug the machine (if needed) - Disconnect electric units from power by unplugging the power cord from the electrical outlet.
- Step 3. Let the unit cool down - Allow at least 30-45 minutes for the machine to cool down before cleaning in order to minimize the risk of burns.
Maintaining the Exterior
Check the user’s manual to see which type(s) of finish your griddle has, then follow the directions below.
- Step 1. Clean black baked enamel - Wash away grease deposits on black baked enamel with warm water, mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge.
- Step 2. Wash brushed chrome or nickel - Wipe off any residues with a soap solution and a clean cloth or sponge.
- Step 3. Maintain stainless steel - Use warm water, mild detergent and a soft sponge or cloth to clean stainless steel surfaces that have a normal amount of residue.
- Step 4. Wipe off stubborn stains on stainless steel (if needed) - Remove tough deposits from stainless steel by applying stainless steel cleaner to a damp cloth or sponge and then rubbing in the direction of the polishing lines.
- Step 5. Remove heat tint from stainless steel (if needed) - Use a stainless steel scouring pad and powdered stainless steel cleaner to remove discoloration from exterior surfaces.
- Step 6. Clean the grease tray - Take out the grease drawer, empty it and then wash it with warm water, mild detergent and a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse with clear water and dry thoroughly before reinstalling in the machine.
Cleaning the Griddle Plates
Maintain the griddle plates while they’re still slightly warm to make removing burned-on deposits easier.
- Step 1. Remove food deposits - Scrape off carbonized grease or food on the plates with a spatula.
- Step 2. Deep clean the cooking surfaces (if needed) - Apply liquid griddle cleaner to a griddle brick, then scrape off any stubborn depositions from the plates. Remember to then rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
- Step 3. Wash the plates - Remove loosened debris, stubborn soil and chemical residues by washing the cooking surfaces with warm water, mild detergent and a clean cloth or sponge. Be sure to then rinse the plates with pure water and dry thoroughly.
- Step 4. Polish the plates - Wipe the cooking surfaces with a fine griddle brick to restore the smooth, bright appearance.
- Step 5. Reseason the unit - Season the griddle plates before resuming normal operation.
Resuming Normal Operation
Be sure to reseason the plates before using the unit normally.
- Step 1. Plug in the unit (if needed) - Check to see if the machine has a power cord; if so, plug it into an electrical outlet.
- Step 2. Power on the machine - Turn on electric models by rotating the thermostat knobs to the desired temperature. For gas units, turn the temperature control knobs to the intended setting.
- Step 3. Use the unit normally - You may now resume normal operation of the machine.
Garland Griddle Cleaning FAQs
How Often Should I Clean My Garland Griddle?
Maintain both the interior and exterior surfaces of your Garland griddle daily to prevent stubborn deposits from forming. For best results, clean cooking surfaces while slightly warm and exterior surfaces when cool to the touch.
Should I Extinguish the Pilot Before Cleaning Garland Gas Griddles?
No. According to the G24 Series Installation and Operation manual, Garland units with standing pilot systems are “generally assumed to be operating with the pilot on continuously,” so it shouldn't be extinguished “except in the event of a gas service interruption to the facility.”
What Products Should I Not Use When Cleaning My Unit?
Remember to not use harsh chemicals like ammonia or abrasive cleaners like steel wool so as not to damage the unit. Instead, use mild detergent or other approved chemicals, as well as soft cloths or sponges. If cleaning stainless steel, be sure to use scouring pads specifically made for stainless steel to avoid damaging the surface.
For more information on how to use, maintain and troubleshoot your machine, take a look at the large library of Garland griddle manuals and diagrams on our site.