What Size Commercial Sink Do I Need?

Choosing the correct size depends on three key factors: kitchen output, available space, and intended use.

1) Kitchen Output

A high-volume restaurant will typically need greater bowl capacity and landing space than a small café, takeaway or coffee shop. Match sink size to how much wash-up your kitchen produces during peak service.

2) Available Space

Measure before ordering:

• Width of the installation area
• Depth from the wall (including any upstand/splashback)
• Height clearance
• Door/corridor access for delivery
• Position of water feeds and waste outlet

3) Intended Use

• Food preparation
• Pot washing
• Hand washing (separate dedicated basin required)
• Multi-stage wash–rinse–sanitise workflow

Single or Double Bowl — Which Do I Need?

Single Bowl Commercial Sinks

Best for:

• Compact kitchens
• Light washing tasks
• Food prep areas (where a separate wash-up sink exists)

Single bowl sinks are space-efficient and cost-effective, but they limit structured multi-stage washing.

Double Bowl Commercial Sinks

Ideal for:

• Restaurants
• Busy catering environments
• Separating wash and rinse for improved hygiene control

What Is the Best Stainless Steel Grade for a Commercial Sink?

Material quality significantly affects longevity, hygiene performance and resistance to corrosion.

304 Stainless Steel (Recommended)

• Superior corrosion resistance
• Better performance against cleaning chemicals
• Longer lifespan in demanding kitchens

430 Stainless Steel

• More budget-friendly
• Suitable for lighter use
• Slightly lower corrosion resistance

How Much Does a Commercial Sink Cost in the UK?

Pricing varies depending on:

• Size and bowl configuration
• Steel grade
• Drainboard inclusion
• Reinforced frames
• Undershelf storage

When budgeting, factor in:

• Installation
• Plumbing fittings
• Waste traps / basket strainers
• Possible grease management requirements

What Is the Standard Height of a Commercial Kitchen Sink?

Most freestanding commercial sinks are manufactured at 850–900mm working height. Many units include adjustable feet to level on uneven floors and fine-tune the working height.

Can I Install a Commercial Sink Myself?

While installation may appear straightforward, a commercial sink must be correctly connected to the mains water supply and waste outlet, and aligned with the existing drainage layout. Incorrect installation can result in leaks, drainage problems or environmental health issues. Professional installation is recommended for most commercial kitchen environments.

Are Commercial Sinks Supplied with Legs and Undershelves?

Most freestanding commercial sinks include stainless steel legs and adjustable feet, with optional or integrated undershelves.

Do Commercial Sinks Come with Waste Fittings?

Many commercial sinks include a waste outlet, but traps, pipework and basket strainers may be sold separately. Before ordering, confirm the waste outlet diameter and compatibility with your plumbing and drainage layout.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing a sink that is too small for kitchen output
• Ignoring plumbing compatibility
• Overlooking ergonomic height
• Selecting lower-grade stainless steel for heavy use
• Failing to plan drainage and grease management

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right commercial sink ensures efficient workflow, maintains hygiene standards and supports compliance in UK professional kitchens. Before purchasing, confirm:

• ✔ Correct bowl configuration
• ✔ Appropriate dimensions
• ✔ Stainless steel grade
• ✔ Installation compatibility
• ✔ Drainage planning

Ready to choose? View the full range: Commercial Sinks (Stainless Steel)