Household appliances are simple but essential machines for the successful production of gelato because they simplify the work and save time. Let’s look at them one by one: a professional citrus juicer and a centrifuge are indispensable. Since the products available on the market are very sturdy, it is enough to check that the motor does not overheat excessively and that the thermal protections do not intervene too frequently.
The immersion blender is used in gelaterias as an alternative to the cutter for certain fruit mix preparations. As with the citrus juicer, the power cord must be properly inserted in its slot. The motor block cover, usually made of highly resistant plastic, must be inspected to ensure that ventilation openings are not blocked and to check the integrity of the blades housed inside the bell.
The induction plate is not an appliance that is replaced frequently, but after years of use it might become necessary. It can be purchased at a lower cost at trade fairs.
In the production laboratory, certain measuring instruments are essential for precision: in particular, scales, thermometers, and refractometers. Thermometers and refractometers do not usually wear out, but the scale—especially if digital—may face some issues: it is wise to check the correct functioning of the circuit board and the condition of the seals, since excessive strain or water infiltration can quickly damage it!
Knives of all shapes and uses, as long as they are sharp, are indispensable for ingredient preparation—just think of fresh fruit. Even for producing traditional flavors like stracciatella or nougat, large knives with long, thick blades help to break up the blocks. Have they become irreparably bent or chipped? Are the blade edge or serrations no longer cutting effectively? It’s time to replace them.
Buckets, preferably made of stainless steel, equipped with a practical handle, graduated markings, and a pouring spout, allow for holding and, if desired, measuring countless raw materials and mixtures to be blended or whipped with whisks or an immersion blender. Stainless steel containers pose no particular problems, whereas plastic ones often have bottoms chipped by the blender bell or the vigorous action of steel whisks, resulting in grooves where dirt easily accumulates and becomes difficult to remove.
Fine mesh strainers or sieves, whisks, and spatulas are now made entirely of steel and allow for manual mixing of ingredients with perfect safety and hygiene, requiring only careful maintenance and replacement when necessary.