PERLICK RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION MANUAL
STAINLESS STEEL CARE & CLEANING
General
Stainless steel is a “passive” metal because it contains other metals like chromium, nickel and manganese that stabilize the atoms. Chromium provides an invisible passive film that covers the steel surface, acting as a shield against corrosion. As long as the film is intact and not contaminated, the metal is passive and stainless. If the passive film of stainless steel has been broken, equipment can start to corrode and rust.
Three materials or processes can break down stainless steel’s passive layer and allow corrosion to occur:
•Mechanical abrasion
•Deposits and water
•Chlorides
Mechanical abrasion refers to items that will scratch a steel surface. Steel pads, wire brushes and scrapers are prime examples.
Water comes out of the faucet in varying degrees of hardness. Hard water may leave spots. When allowed to sit, these deposits will break down the passive chromium layer and rust stainless steel. Other deposits from
food preparation must be promptly removed with an appropriate cleaning agent.
Chlorides are found nearly everywhere. They are in water, food and table salt. Household and industrial cleaners are the worst offenders.
Preventing Stainless Steel Rust
Use
Clean with polish lines. Some stainless steels have visible polishing lines or “grain”. When visible lines are present, always scrub in a motion parallel to the lines. When the grain cannot be seen, polish in a consistent straight pattern and not in a circular motion.
Use alkaline, alkaline chlorinated or
contact your cleaner supplier. If your present cleaner contains chlorides, ask your supplier for an alternative. Avoid cleaners containing quaternary salt; it also can attack stainless steel and cause pitting and rusting.
Keep food equipment clean. Use alkaline, alkaline chlorinated or
If chlorinated cleaners are used, immediately rinse and wipe equipment and supplies dry. The sooner you wipe standing water, especially when it contains cleaning agents, the better. After wiping equipment down, allow it to air dry. Oxygen helps maintain the stainless steel passive film.
Cleaning the Cabinet Interior/Exterior
CAUTION NEVER use hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid) on stainless steel.
Do not use abrasive cleansers or cloths on any interior or exterior surfaces or removeable parts.
Glass panels may be cleaned using any standard glass cleaner available on the market.
To clean interior and exterior
Cleaning the Condenser
The condenser (located behind the front grille cover) should be cleaned every three (3) months. Use a soft bristle brush and vacuum to remove dust and lint.
CAUTION
Avoid damaging or crushing the condenser fins or tubing.
8perlick.com