Must-Have Food Truck Equipment for Utilities, Ventilation, and Safety

Running a food truck successfully takes more than just great food and fast service—it takes a well-thought-out infrastructure. Power, ventilation, safety systems, and janitorial setup are crucial for code compliance, crew safety, and overall efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the must-have food truck equipment covering utility setup, ventilation needs, and sanitation essentials—complete with accurate links to gear available at RestaurantEquipment.com.

🔌 Powering Your Food Truck Kitchen

Whether you’re running propane appliances or electric refrigeration, your truck’s power system is the lifeline of your kitchen. Without proper planning, you risk downtime, electrical hazards, or insufficient fuel to finish the day.

Common Power Sources:

• Propane (LP Gas): Ideal for fryers, griddles, ranges

• Onboard Generators: Power electric fryers, refrigerators, prep tables

• Shore Power Hookups: Used at festivals or events with outlets

Equipment to Consider:

• Power Distribution Panels

• Voltage Regulators / Surge Protectors

• Fuel Pressure Gauges for LP Tanks

Tip: Know Your Load

Add up the BTU or wattage of each appliance. Don’t overload your generator or breaker. Example:

🌬️ Proper Ventilation Setup

Why It Matters:

• Prevents grease buildup, fire risk, and excessive cabin heat

• Keeps air clean for staff

• Often required for health/fire code compliance

Ventilation Essentials:

1. Exhaust Hood Systems
   Designed to pull smoke, grease, and steam away from cooktops and fryers. Must be sized to match appliance coverage (e.g. 4 ft hood for 2 ft griddle + fryer).

2. Grease Filters
   Regularly cleaned baffle filters are mandatory. Look for removable stainless steel units available in various widths.

3. Make-Up Air Fans
   Brings fresh air back into the unit—prevents negative pressure buildup inside the truck.

4. Air Curtains
   Mounted above service windows, these create an invisible shield to block insects, dust, and hot air entry.
   🔗 Shop Air Curtains

🔥 Fire Safety & Suppression

Fire risk is real in compact mobile kitchens. Local codes (NFPA 96) often require:

• Fire Suppression Systems: Wet-chemical systems with nozzles aimed at fryers and grills

• Class K Fire Extinguishers: Required for grease-based fires

• Quick Disconnects for Gas Lines: Emergency shut-off during leak or maintenance

Best Practices:

• Inspect systems monthly

• Train all staff on extinguisher use

• Don’t block access to shut-off valves

🧼 Janitorial Equipment & Cleanliness

Your food truck isn’t just a kitchen—it’s a compact food facility, and sanitation is key.

Sinks

• Hand Sinks: Required by health codes for all food trucks

• Three-Compartment Sinks: For washing, rinsing, sanitizing tools and pans

• Underbar Sink Stations: Compact, integrated and plumbable

🔗 Shop Hand Sinks & Bar Sinks

Cleaning Supplies

Stock up on food-safe and fast-access items:

• Mop Buckets & Wringers

• Degreasers & Sanitizers

• Disposable Towels / Cloths

• Gloves & Aprons

• Brooms & Dustpan Sets

• Trash Receptacles (Covered)

🔗 View Janitorial Cleaning Supplies

Floor Mats

Slip-resistant mats reduce injury risk—especially near fryer zones. Look for models with drainage holes and anti-fatigue properties.

🧯 Safety Accessories

• Non-Slip Footwear Zones

• First Aid Kits (visible & mounted)

• Wet Floor Signage (folding)

• Break-Proof Thermometers

Even in mobile kitchens, OSHA and local food safety boards expect full safety prep.

🧰 Storage & Utility Fixtures

Don’t underestimate the value of well-placed:

• Wall-Mounted Shelves: For utensils, lids, and gloves

• Drawer Caddies: Built into prep tables or undercounter fridges

• Wire Shelving: Stack dry ingredients vertically without losing space

🔗 Explore Kitchen Furniture & Shelving

🗂️ Daily Maintenance Checklist

💵 Cost Planning

FAQs

Q: Are exhaust hoods mandatory for every food truck?
A: Yes, if you’re using fryers, grills, or other grease-producing equipment.

Q: What’s the most common sanitation violation in food trucks?
A: Lack of proper handwashing stations and disposable towels.

Q: Can I use household cleaners?
A: No—use commercial kitchen-safe sanitizers and degreasers.

Utilities and safety gear are the backbone of every efficient food truck. Beyond fryers and griddles, you need reliable power, solid ventilation, janitorial tools, and fire safety equipment to pass inspections and keep service flowing.

At RestaurantEquipment.com, we help you build your truck for long-term success—from prep tables to air curtains, mop sinks to handwashing stations. Explore our full range of commercial kitchen and janitorial supplies built for mobile service and daily grind durability.