Compartment sinks are used for pot washing tasks in commercial kitchens. Sinks with one to two compartments are generally used for food preparation. Used mops can also be washed in them. Needless to say, you are not allowed to use them for both as a mop and prep sink because of the high likelihood for the food getting contaminated. Cookware and bakeware that are too big for the washer are often washed in 3 compartment sinks.

It is a requirement for businesses in the food service industry to have an automatic ware washing equipment or a 3 compartment sink. These sinks allow their users to wash soiled cookware and dinnerware in the first compartment, rinse in the second, and sanitize in the last. Even establishments with automatic ware washing equipment are encouraged to have a 3 compartment sink because it can be used temporarily for dish washing should the former malfunction and requires repairs.

Fairly new to the food service industry is the continuous motion ware washing system. This is also called a recirculating soaker system which that eliminates the need for pot washing by hand. The cleaning mechanism behind this equipment is simply agitating detergent-containing water, which can be warmed with built-in heaters if desired, to move around the soiled pots and pans to loosen and wash away food particles and dirt. This system can also be retrofit on compartment sinks that have already been installed.

3 compartment sink are sold from the web-based and brick-and-mortar stores of the companies that manufacture them as well as those operated by their retailers. It will be more convenient to shop on the Internet though, and you will have more choices. Price range is wide, typically from 300 dollars to 8,000 dollars depending on the number of compartments. If you’re planning on purchasing one, experts advise evaluating three to five models from various brands. Learn as much as you can about the units you have shortlisted so you won’t be sweet-talked into buying a pricey but not as durable unit by a sales rep. Also, do not forget to buy a sink that is wide and deep enough for the biggest cookware you have.

Before you pull the trigger, do a bit of research on the product you’re eyeing. Ask for reviews from people you know. Go online and ask for reviews on forums. I’m not a fan of review sites as they can be misleading quite often, especially for the ignorant. Your purchases are your responsibility and thus, you should put in as much efforts as possible. Research is important as you don’t want to be spending money for no real benefits.