Deck ovens are the cornerstone of many successful bakeries, producing the artisan breads, pastries, and baked goods your customers love. But like any hardworking piece of equipment, your oven needs proper care and maintenance to continue delivering quality results. With the right approach to cleaning and upkeep, you can extend your oven's lifespan, prevent costly repairs, and ensure every bake comes out just right.

Here’s your guide to maintaining and cleaning your deck oven the right way—from daily habits to long-term care.

Daily Cleaning: A Quick Routine with Big Benefits

Every day, flour, cornmeal, and crumbs accumulate inside your deck oven. It's unavoidable after all! This residue, if left unchecked, can start to affect bake quality. Under the right circumstances, flour can even become combustible and potentially cause significant damage to your equipment and potentially the bakery as a whole. That is why using an oven brush or industrial vacuum to clean debris from each deck, especially around corners and crevices, is critical. If your oven has a scraper attachment, gently remove any baked-on bits like melted cheese or sugar as well! Performing daily cleaning and general maintenance will ensure this residue doesn't become a major issue.

For the exterior, wipe down surfaces like handles, face panels, and control displays with a soft cloth and mild soap solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch stainless steel or damage finishes. If your oven has glass doors, allow them to cool fully before wiping clean to prevent cracking or injury.

Monthly Maintenance: A Deeper Clean for Peak Performance

Set aside time each month to perform a deeper clean. Check the oven decks for any stubborn, baked-on residue and carefully remove it using a scraper. If your oven allows for it, remove the glass from the doors for a thorough cleaning. This keeps your view into the baking chamber clear and your oven looking professional.

Also take this time to vacuum out the steam exhaust blower and burner air intake. These areas are essential for airflow and steam performance, and buildup here can lead to reduced baking efficiency or technical issues.

Long-Term Maintenance: Keeping Things Running Smoothly

Every 6 to 12 months, schedule a visit from a qualified technician for a preventative maintenance check. They’ll test your oven’s burner, gas pressure, and exhaust levels (CO, CO2, and O2), ensuring optimal combustion and safety. They’ll also inspect the steam generator, exhaust stack, and control components for signs of wear or buildup.

Over time—typically every 3 to 5 years—some parts may need replacement, such as hoses, switches, or motors. Staying ahead of these needs prevents breakdowns and extends the life of your oven overall!

Final Thoughts

Caring for your deck oven doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be consistent. With simple daily cleaning, monthly deep cleans, and routine inspections, you can protect your investment and ensure your oven keeps delivering beautiful, evenly baked products!

Your oven works hard for you—give it the attention it deserves, and it will serve your bakery well for years to come.