Blodgett Ovens: The Ultimate Guide
In the foodservice industry, it’s rare for a company to have both a legendary history and a reputation for cutting-edge innovation. Blodgett is one of those exceptions. Since 1848, they’ve been crafting ovens that stand the test of time, earning a legacy of unmatched durability. But they haven’t stopped there. Blodgett continues to lead the industry with award-winning technology like the ventless Hoodini system and the game-changing ImVection oven. This unique blend of time-tested quality and forward-thinking design is what sets them apart. We’ll explore how this powerful combination makes a Blodgett oven a superior choice for any modern kitchen.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on Long-Term Value: A Blodgett oven is a significant investment, but its durability, energy efficiency, and reliable performance translate to lower operational costs and less downtime over the years, offering a better return than cheaper alternatives.
- Select Features That Solve Your Problems: Go beyond basic specs and look at innovations that address your kitchen's specific challenges. Whether it's a ventless system for a tight space or a combi oven for menu versatility, choose technology that directly improves your workflow.
- Make a Data-Driven Decision: To find the right model, analyze your menu's cooking needs, measure your available space and utility hookups, and calculate your peak production volume. This practical approach ensures you get an oven that truly fits your operation.
What is Blodgett?
When you’re outfitting a commercial kitchen, the name Blodgett will come up again and again. It’s a brand that has become synonymous with reliability and performance in the world of professional ovens. For chefs and restaurant owners, choosing a Blodgett oven means investing in a piece of equipment designed to handle the intense demands of a busy foodservice environment. They are known for their robust construction and innovative features that help kitchens produce consistent, high-quality food day in and day out. From bustling pizzerias to high-end restaurants, Blodgett offers a range of solutions tailored to specific cooking needs.
A History of Innovation
Blodgett isn't a newcomer to the kitchen scene. The company has been crafting ovens in Vermont since 1848, giving them more than 175 years of experience. This incredible longevity speaks volumes about their ability to adapt and innovate. They haven't just survived for nearly two centuries; they've led the way. This long history means they’ve had generations to perfect their engineering, listen to feedback from chefs, and refine their designs. When you choose a Blodgett, you're not just buying an oven; you're benefiting from a long legacy of quality and expertise that started long before modern kitchens even existed.
What Makes Blodgett Ovens Stand Out?
So, what’s the secret to their lasting success? It comes down to a simple promise: their ovens are built to last. The phrase "built like a Blodgett" has become an industry benchmark for durability. As a leading manufacturer of commercial convection ovens, combi ovens, and pizza deck ovens, they focus on using high-quality materials and solid construction. This ensures their equipment can withstand the wear and tear of a professional kitchen. For a restaurant owner, this means less downtime, fewer repairs, and a more reliable cooking process, which is exactly what you need when the dinner rush hits.
Key Company Milestones
Blodgett's leadership is backed by some impressive achievements. Having sold over one million convection ovens, their popularity and trusted status are clear. This isn't a niche brand; it's a global leader that kitchens everywhere depend on. But they aren't just resting on their past success. Blodgett continues to push the industry forward, recently winning the 2024 Kitchen Innovation Award for their new ImVection oven. This award highlights their ongoing commitment to developing technology that helps modern kitchens work smarter, proving that even after 175 years, they are still at the forefront of innovation.
A Guide to Blodgett Commercial Ovens
Blodgett has built a reputation for creating some of the most reliable and innovative ovens in the foodservice industry. Whether you're running a high-volume restaurant, a small bakery, or a school cafeteria, there's a Blodgett oven designed to meet your specific cooking demands. From the even-baking power of convection to the versatile magic of combi ovens, each model is built with performance and durability in mind. Let’s look at the main types of commercial ovens Blodgett offers so you can find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Convection Ovens
Blodgett is a world leader in convection ovens, and for good reason. These are the dependable workhorses you’ll find in every type of kitchen, from fast-food chains to fine-dining establishments. A convection oven uses internal fans to circulate hot air, which eliminates hot spots and cooks food more quickly and evenly than a conventional oven. This makes them perfect for baking, roasting, and rethermalizing. If you need an oven that delivers consistent results day in and day out for a wide range of menu items, a Blodgett convection oven is a solid foundation for your kitchen equipment lineup.
Combi Ovens
For kitchens that need maximum versatility in a minimal footprint, Blodgett’s combi ovens are a game-changer. These units combine the functions of a convection oven and a steamer into one powerful machine. You can bake with dry heat, steam vegetables, or use a combination of both to keep proteins juicy and tender. Blodgett is constantly innovating in this space, with features like the Hoodini Ventless Solution that can help you save on installation costs, kitchen space, and energy bills. A combi oven is a significant investment, but the flexibility and quality it brings to your menu can be invaluable.
Pizza Ovens
A great pizza starts with a great oven, and Blodgett’s pizza ovens are built to handle the demands of any pizzeria. Constructed with durable, robust stainless steel, these ovens are designed for high-volume output and consistent performance. The materials not only ensure longevity but also make the ovens sleek and easy to clean after a busy shift. They provide the intense, even heat needed to produce perfectly crispy crusts and melted cheese, pie after pie. If pizza is your specialty, you need an oven you can count on, and Blodgett delivers.
Hydrovection Ovens
Blodgett’s Hydrovection ovens offer a unique solution for cooking delicate foods that require moisture. These ovens combine convection heat with humidity, giving you precise control over the cooking environment. What makes them special is the Helix™ Technology, which provides continuous humidity for incredibly moist results without drying out your food. They are also the only ovens in their class with a split-door design, allowing you to open one side without letting all the heat and steam escape. This is ideal for baking delicate pastries or roasting meats where retaining moisture is key to a perfect final product.
Key Features of Blodgett Ovens
When you invest in a Blodgett oven, you're getting more than just a stainless steel box that gets hot. You're getting a piece of equipment packed with thoughtful features designed to make your life in the kitchen easier, more efficient, and more productive. Blodgett has a reputation for pushing the envelope, constantly developing new technologies that solve real-world problems for chefs and restaurant owners. From saving space and energy to cooking food faster and more consistently, these features are what truly set their ovens apart from the rest. Let's look at some of the key innovations that make Blodgett a leader in the industry.
Advanced Cooking Technology
Blodgett is always working to create new and better ovens, and their commitment to innovation is clear in their award-winning designs. They understand that a modern kitchen needs equipment that can keep up with evolving menus and high-volume demands. This means creating ovens that are not only powerful but also versatile and efficient. Their focus on advanced cooking technology ensures you can produce high-quality food consistently, whether you're baking delicate pastries or roasting large cuts of meat. Investing in the right modern kitchen equipment with these kinds of features can completely change your kitchen's workflow for the better.
The Hoodini Ventless System
One of Blodgett's most celebrated innovations is the Hoodini Ventless Solution. This award-winning feature is a game-changer for kitchens with limited space or ventilation challenges. It allows you to place a powerful convection or combi oven in locations where a traditional ventilation hood would be impossible or prohibitively expensive to install. This saves you a significant amount on installation, maintenance, and energy bills. The Hoodini system gives you incredible flexibility in your kitchen design, opening up possibilities for more efficient layouts. Thinking about the upfront cost savings on installation can make it easier to explore equipment financing for a top-tier oven.
ImVection Technology
Proving their place at the forefront of kitchen tech, Blodgett won the 2024 Kitchen Innovation Award for their new ImVection oven. This oven is designed to completely change how commercial kitchens operate by combining two powerful cooking methods. ImVection technology merges the speed and browning power of convection cooking with the gentle, moisture-infusing capabilities of steam. This powerful combination results in faster cooking times without sacrificing food quality. Your dishes come out perfectly cooked and juicy every time, improving both the speed of service and the satisfaction of your customers.
Smart Split Door Design
Blodgett's Hydrovection ovens feature another unique and practical innovation: a split door design with continuous humidity, powered by their Helix™ Technology. In fact, they are the only ovens on the market with this specific combination. The split doors allow you to open one section of the oven without letting all the heat and steam escape from the entire cavity. This is incredibly useful for busy kitchens where you need to check on or remove items at different times. It helps maintain a stable cooking environment, ensuring your results are consistent while also improving energy efficiency.
A Look at Blodgett's Quality and Performance
When you invest in a commercial oven, you’re not just buying a piece of equipment; you’re investing in the heart of your kitchen. You need a workhorse that can handle the daily grind, deliver consistent results, and not let you down during a dinner rush. This is where Blodgett truly shines. For over a century, the brand has built its reputation on performance and quality that professional chefs trust.
Blodgett ovens are designed with the realities of a commercial kitchen in mind. They are known for their exceptional durability, precise cooking control, and features that make life easier for your kitchen staff. From the materials they use to the technology they engineer, every detail is focused on reliability and excellence. Let’s break down what makes Blodgett a top choice when it comes to quality and performance, so you can see how it stands up to the demands of your business.
Built to Last: Materials and Construction
A commercial kitchen is a demanding environment, and your equipment needs to be tough enough to handle the heat, spills, and constant use. Blodgett ovens are engineered for longevity. The company is known for its "exceptional materials and craftsmanship, high energy efficiency and...stellar service/repair records." This commitment means you get an oven that can withstand the rigors of a high-volume kitchen day in and day out. The robust construction, often featuring a full angle-iron frame and stainless steel components, ensures your investment continues to pay off for years to come. This focus on durability is a core reason why Blodgett has remained a trusted name in the industry.
Precise Temperature Control
Consistency is everything in the culinary world. Your customers expect their favorite dish to taste the same every time, and that starts with precise cooking. Blodgett has a long history of setting the standard for performance, with their deck ovens, in particular, being recognized for establishing "industry-wide standards for excellence in baking characteristics, performance, and reliability." This level of precision allows chefs to cook with confidence, knowing that the oven will maintain an accurate temperature throughout the cooking cycle. Whether you're baking delicate pastries or roasting meats, you can count on a Blodgett oven to deliver even, predictable results every single time.
Energy-Efficient Features
Managing operational costs is a top priority for any restaurant owner, and utility bills can take a big bite out of your budget. Blodgett addresses this by incorporating energy-efficient features into their designs. Their heritage is built on reliability, and part of that is creating ovens that perform powerfully without wasting energy. Many models, like their ENERGY STAR® certified convection ovens, are designed to reduce gas or electricity consumption, which translates directly into lower monthly bills. Choosing an energy-efficient Blodgett oven is a smart financial decision that also supports more sustainable kitchen practices. This long-term value makes considering restaurant equipment financing a practical step toward upgrading your kitchen.
Simple Maintenance Needs
At the end of a long shift, the last thing your team wants is a complicated and time-consuming cleaning routine. Blodgett understands this, which is why their ovens are designed for simple maintenance. For example, their pizza ovens are "built with durable and robust stainless steel materials. So, it looks sleek and shiny and straightforward to clean." This practical design choice is seen across their product lines, from easy-to-clean interiors to removable components. Less time spent on cleaning means more time for your staff to focus on prep, service, and other critical tasks. This ease of maintenance not only improves kitchen efficiency but also helps ensure your oven stays in top condition.
Blodgett vs. The Competition
Choosing a commercial oven is a major decision for any kitchen. It’s the workhorse of your operation, and you need a reliable piece of equipment that delivers consistent results. While there are many brands on the market, Blodgett has consistently stood out for over 170 years. When you compare Blodgett to its competitors, you’ll find key differences in four main areas: reputation, innovation, value, and support. Understanding these distinctions will help you see why so many chefs and restaurant owners trust the Blodgett name. Let's look at how Blodgett stacks up.
Industry Reputation
When you’ve been in business since the 1840s, you learn a thing or two about building equipment that lasts. Blodgett has earned its reputation as a top global manufacturer of commercial ovens by consistently delivering on its promises of quality and durability. Kitchens in restaurants, hotels, schools, and hospitals rely on Blodgett ovens every day. This widespread trust isn't just about brand recognition; it's built on decades of performance in high-demand environments. While other brands may come and go, Blodgett’s long-standing presence in the industry speaks volumes about its reliability and the trust it has earned from professionals worldwide.
Technology and Innovation
Blodgett isn’t a company that rests on its history; it actively pushes the industry forward with new technology. They are constantly working to create smarter, more efficient ovens. A great example is their award-winning ImVection oven, which combines the best of convection and impingement cooking. Their Hydrovection ovens are also in a class of their own, featuring a unique split-door design and Helix™ Technology for continuous humidity control. This commitment to innovation means you get an oven with features that can genuinely improve your cooking process, save energy, and give you a competitive edge. You can explore our full range of restaurant equipment to see how these features compare.
Price and Value
Let’s talk about the bottom line. While Blodgett ovens are a premium product, they are designed to offer incredible value over their lifespan. The company understands that different kitchens have different budgets, which is why they offer several product lines at various price points, from the accessible Economy series to the high-performance XCEL models. This approach allows you to invest in Blodgett’s quality without overextending your budget. When you factor in the oven’s durability, energy efficiency, and performance, the total cost of ownership is often lower than that of competing brands. Plus, flexible restaurant equipment financing can make this essential investment even more manageable.
Customer Support
Your relationship with an oven manufacturer shouldn’t end after the sale. Blodgett is known for its exceptional build quality and stellar service records, which means you’ll likely spend more time cooking and less time on repairs. The ovens are constructed with high-quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of a commercial kitchen. On the rare occasion that you do need assistance, Blodgett’s support network is there to help you get back up and running quickly. This reliability and strong backing provide invaluable peace of mind, ensuring your kitchen’s most important asset is always ready for service.
How to Choose the Right Blodgett Oven
Picking the right oven is a huge decision for any kitchen. It’s not just about finding a model that fits; it’s about choosing a workhorse that will support your menu, your team, and your business goals for years to come. A Blodgett oven is a significant investment in quality, so you want to make sure you select the perfect one. By thinking through your specific needs, kitchen layout, and production volume, you can confidently choose an oven that will become the heart of your operation.
Assess Your Kitchen's Needs
First, take a close look at your menu. What are you cooking most often? Are you baking delicate pastries, roasting large cuts of meat, or steaming vegetables? The answer will point you toward the right type of oven, whether it’s a convection, combi, or deck oven. Blodgett ovens are designed to handle the tough work of professional kitchens, making them a reliable choice for any culinary focus. Make a list of your top five best-selling dishes and their cooking requirements. This simple exercise will give you a clear picture of the features you need, ensuring you invest in an oven that truly works for your unique restaurant equipment setup.
Check Your Space and Ventilation
Before you fall in love with a specific model, get out your tape measure. You need to know exactly how much space you have available, including clearance on all sides for safety and maintenance. Also, consider your utility hookups. Do you have the right gas line or electrical capacity for the oven you want? Don’t forget about ventilation. Proper hood space is crucial for removing heat, smoke, and grease, keeping your kitchen safe and compliant with local health codes. Blodgett’s long history is built on quality and smart design, so their ovens are crafted to integrate well, but you have to start with accurate measurements of your space.
Plan for Production Volume
Think about your busiest service. How many customers are you serving, and how quickly do you need to turn tables? Your oven needs to keep up with demand without sacrificing quality. Blodgett ovens are built for consistent performance, making them ideal for kitchens that require reliable output. If you’re running a medium-volume restaurant, a single oven might be enough. But if you’re planning to grow or already have a high-volume operation, consider stackable models to double your capacity without taking up more floor space. It’s always better to plan for the business you want, not just the business you have.
Analyze Your Budget and ROI
A commercial oven is a major purchase, and it’s important to understand the full financial picture. Blodgett offers several lines at different price points, like their Economy, Zephaire, and XCEL series, allowing you to find a model that fits your budget. Look beyond the initial price tag and consider the long-term return on investment. An energy-efficient oven can lower your utility bills, while a reliable one prevents costly downtime and repairs. If the upfront cost is a concern, exploring restaurant equipment financing can make it easier to get the high-quality oven you need now and pay for it over time.
Understanding Blodgett's Support and Service
Investing in a high-quality oven is a big step, but what happens after it arrives at your kitchen? The support you receive post-purchase is just as crucial as the initial quality of the equipment. A great oven is only useful if it’s installed correctly, running efficiently, and easy to repair when something goes wrong. This is where a company’s commitment to customer service really shines. Blodgett understands that your oven is the heart of your kitchen, and they’ve built a robust support system to ensure you get the most out of your investment for years to come.
From professional installation and training to comprehensive warranty coverage and readily available parts, they provide the resources you need to keep your operations smooth. When you choose a Blodgett oven, you’re not just buying a piece of equipment; you’re gaining a partner dedicated to your kitchen’s success. This level of support minimizes downtime and protects your bottom line, allowing you to focus on what you do best: creating amazing food. Let's look at the specific ways Blodgett supports its customers long after the sale is complete, ensuring your oven remains a reliable workhorse in your commercial kitchen.
Installation and Training
Getting your new oven set up correctly from the start is essential for performance and safety. Blodgett simplifies this with their Professional Installation Program, designed to give you a completely worry-free startup experience. When you opt for this service, a certified technician handles the entire setup, ensuring every connection is secure and every component is calibrated perfectly. This not only gets your oven running efficiently right away but also helps you maximize your investment from day one. It’s the best way to guarantee your equipment is ready for the demands of a busy kitchen. You can learn more about the Blodgett Platinum Pro Installation Service on their website.
Warranty Coverage Details
Understanding your warranty is key to protecting your investment. Blodgett provides solid warranty coverage on their equipment, but the specific terms and duration can vary depending on the oven model you purchase. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s always best to go straight to the source. The Blodgett customer service team is ready to provide all the details you need about your specific oven’s warranty status and coverage options. You can reach them directly at 1-802-658-6600. Having this information on hand before you need it can save you time and stress down the road.
Parts and Availability
When a part needs replacing, you want to get your oven back up and running as quickly as possible with a component you can trust. Using genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts is crucial for keeping your Blodgett oven running safely and efficiently. Blodgett ensures you have access to a wide selection of these parts, from heating elements for convection ovens to seals for combi ovens. This means you can maintain your equipment with components designed specifically for your model, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal performance. You can find a large inventory of Blodgett parts and manuals to keep your kitchen operational.
Professional Service Options
Even the most durable ovens need professional attention from time to time. Whether it’s for routine maintenance or an unexpected repair, you need access to qualified technicians. Blodgett ovens are supported by a network of authorized service providers who are trained to handle everything from diagnostics and burner calibration to full system inspections. Companies like General Parts Group offer comprehensive Blodgett commercial oven service, and they stand behind their work with a 90-day warranty on both parts and labor. This gives you peace of mind knowing that any service performed will be reliable and professional, minimizing downtime in your kitchen.
Where to Buy Blodgett Ovens
Once you’ve decided a Blodgett oven is the right fit for your kitchen, the next step is figuring out where to buy it. A major equipment purchase is a big decision, and you want to make sure you’re working with a supplier you can trust. The right partner won’t just sell you a box; they’ll offer guidance, fair pricing, and support to ensure you get the best value for your investment. From authorized dealers who specialize in the brand to suppliers offering great deals and flexible payment plans, you have several excellent paths to get the equipment you need. Let's walk through the best places to look and what to consider along the way.
Find an Authorized Dealer
Your first stop should be an authorized dealer or a trusted restaurant equipment supplier. Working with an authorized seller guarantees that you're getting a genuine Blodgett oven with a full manufacturer's warranty. These dealers have a direct relationship with Blodgett, meaning they have deep product knowledge and can answer any specific questions you have about different models. They can help you compare features and find the perfect oven for your menu and workflow. When you shop for restaurant equipment from a reputable source, you get peace of mind knowing you’re investing in authentic, high-quality machinery backed by solid support.
Look for Current Deals
Every dollar counts when you're running a restaurant, so it’s always smart to look for current deals and promotions. Many equipment suppliers run sales or offer special pricing on top brands like Blodgett. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions, holiday sales, or package deals if you’re buying multiple pieces of equipment. Subscribing to newsletters from suppliers is a great way to stay informed about upcoming discounts. Finding a great price doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality; it just means you’re making a savvy investment that helps your bottom line from day one.
Explore Financing Options
A new commercial oven is a significant expense, but it doesn't have to drain your cash flow. Many suppliers offer restaurant equipment financing to help you manage the cost. This allows you to break down the total price into manageable monthly payments, so you can get the oven you need now and pay for it over time as it generates revenue for your business. Financing is a practical tool that helps you preserve capital for other essential expenses like inventory, payroll, and marketing. Before you buy, always ask your supplier about their financing programs and what the terms look like.
Check Global Availability
Blodgett is a well-established brand with a global reach, which is great news for restaurant owners. Their long history and strong reputation mean that their ovens are available through a wide network of suppliers across the country and around the world. This widespread availability also makes it easier to find parts and certified technicians for service or repairs down the road. Knowing that you can get support for your equipment no matter where your business is located provides an extra layer of confidence in your purchase. It confirms you're investing in a brand that is not only reliable but also well-supported within the industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What really sets Blodgett ovens apart from other brands? It comes down to a unique combination of history and innovation. Blodgett has been building ovens since 1848, so they have a deep understanding of what makes equipment last in a tough kitchen environment. This experience is why the phrase "built like a Blodgett" exists. At the same time, they are constantly developing new technology, like their award-winning ImVection and Hoodini systems, that solves modern kitchen problems. You get old-school durability paired with smart, forward-thinking features.
I'm worried about the upfront cost. Are Blodgett ovens a good value? While a Blodgett oven is a significant investment, it’s designed to provide excellent value over its entire lifespan. Think beyond the initial price tag. Their energy-efficient models can lower your monthly utility bills, and their robust construction means you'll spend less on repairs and deal with less downtime. When you consider the consistent cooking results that reduce food waste and the oven's long-term reliability, the total cost of ownership is often much lower than that of less expensive brands.
My kitchen has limited space and ventilation. Can I still use a Blodgett oven? Yes, this is a common challenge that Blodgett directly addresses. Their Hoodini Ventless Solution is a fantastic feature for kitchens that are tight on space or can't accommodate a traditional ventilation hood. This system allows you to install a powerful convection or combi oven in places you otherwise couldn't, saving you a great deal on expensive hood installation and giving you more flexibility with your kitchen layout.
With so many options, how do I pick the right type of oven for my menu? The best way to choose is to match the oven to what you cook most. If you need a dependable workhorse for general baking and roasting, a Blodgett convection oven is a perfect choice. For maximum versatility in a small footprint, a combi oven lets you steam, bake, and combine both methods. If pizza is your specialty, their dedicated pizza ovens deliver the intense, even heat you need. And for delicate items that require humidity, a Hydrovection oven gives you precise moisture control.
What kind of support can I expect after I buy the oven? Blodgett's support extends well beyond the initial purchase. They offer professional installation to ensure your oven is set up correctly from day one for optimal performance. You're also covered by a solid warranty and have access to a wide network of authorized service technicians for any maintenance or repairs. Because they are such a well-established brand, genuine parts are readily available, which helps minimize any potential downtime and keeps your kitchen running smoothly.
About The Author
Sean Kearney
Sean Kearney used to work at Amazon.com and started The Restaurant Warehouse. He has more than 10 years of experience in restaurant equipment and supplies. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1993. He earned a BA in business and marketing. He also played linebacker for the Huskies football team. He helps restaurants find equipment at a fair price and offers financing options. You can connect with Sean on LinkedIn or Facebook.
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