8.6 Pizza Oven Cleaning & Maintenance

# 8.6 Pizza Oven Cleaning & Maintenance

**Little Coffee Bean Co**
**Version:** V2
**Date:** October 2025
**SOP Number:** 8.6

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## Purpose

To provide staff with clear procedures for daily cleaning, maintenance, and deep cleaning of pizza ovens, ensuring food safety, optimal performance, and equipment longevity.

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## Scope

This SOP applies to all pizza ovens at Little Coffee Bean Co locations (mobile Tuk Tuks and fixed shops).

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## Equipment Required

– Soft-bristled cleaning brush
– Damp cloths and dry cloths
– Pizza oven scraper or shovel
– Ash removal container
– Thermometer (for temperature verification)
– Manufacturer’s manual

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## Daily Cleaning (End of Shift)

### 1. Remove Ash
– Allow oven to cool slightly
– Use pizza oven shovel or scraper to push ash to front
– Carefully remove ash into ash container
– Dispose of ash in appropriate waste

### 2. Wipe Interior
– Use damp cloth to wipe down interior surfaces
– Remove food residue and debris
– Wipe from back to front
– Repeat with dry cloth

### 3. Clean Oven Mouth
– Use soft brush to remove debris from oven opening
– Wipe edges with damp cloth
– Dry with clean cloth

### 4. Clean Exterior
– Wipe down exterior with damp cloth
– Remove grease and soot
– Dry with clean cloth
– Check for damage

### 5. Check Temperature
– Use thermometer to verify oven temperature
– Should reach 250–300°C for pizza
– Report temperature issues to management

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## Weekly Deep Clean (Sunday)

### 1. Deep Clean Interior
– Ensure oven is off and cool
– Use pizza oven scraper to remove stubborn buildup
– Scrape all interior surfaces
– Use soft brush to remove loose debris
– Wipe with damp cloth
– Dry completely

### 2. Deep Clean Oven Mouth
– Use soft brush to clean opening thoroughly
– Remove soot and debris
– Wipe with damp cloth
– Dry with clean cloth

### 3. Clean Exterior
– Wipe down entire exterior with damp cloth
– Remove grease, soot, and stains
– Use soft brush for stubborn areas
– Dry with clean cloth

### 4. Inspect Oven Structure
– Check for cracks in interior or exterior
– Look for loose bricks or tiles
– Inspect door hinges (if applicable)
– Report any damage to management

### 5. Check Temperature
– Use thermometer to verify oven reaches correct temperature
– Should reach 250–300°C for pizza
– Report any temperature issues to management

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## Monthly Maintenance

– Inspect all structural components for damage
– Check door seals (if applicable) for wear
– Verify thermometer accuracy
– Inspect for signs of rust or corrosion
– Test temperature controls
– Check that oven heats evenly

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## Seasonal Deep Clean (Quarterly)

### 1. Full Interior Clean
– Ensure oven is off and completely cool
– Use scraper to remove all buildup
– Brush out all loose debris
– Wipe with damp cloth multiple times
– Dry completely

### 2. Exterior Deep Clean
– Wipe down entire exterior thoroughly
– Use appropriate cleaner for exterior material
– Dry with clean cloth
– Polish if applicable

### 3. Comprehensive Inspection
– Inspect all structural components
– Check for cracks or damage
– Verify all fasteners are tight
– Test all controls
– Report any issues to management

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## Troubleshooting

| **Issue** | **Cause** | **Action** |
|———–|———-|———–|
| Won’t heat | Fuel issue or blockage | Check fuel, clear blockage |
| Temperature too low | Buildup inside | Deep clean interior |
| Temperature too high | Thermostat issue | Contact maintenance |
| Visible cracks | Structural damage | Contact maintenance |
| Door won’t close | Hinge damage | Contact maintenance |
| Smoke inside | Blockage in chimney | Clear blockage |

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## Food Safety

– Never use harsh chemicals inside oven
– Ensure oven is cool before cleaning
– Remove all ash and debris before cooking
– Keep cleaning materials away from food prep areas
– Wash hands after cleaning

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## Safety

– Always allow oven to cool before cleaning
– Never use water on extremely hot oven
– Be careful of hot surfaces
– Use appropriate tools for cleaning
– Report any damage or malfunction immediately
– Keep oven area clear of clutter

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## Responsibility

– **All Staff:** Complete daily ash removal and wipe-down after use
– **Shift Managers:** Oversee daily cleaning and complete weekly deep clean
– **Store Manager:** Verify cleaning standards and arrange professional servicing
– **Directors:** Review maintenance logs and budget for repairs

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## References

– Pizza Oven Manufacturer Manual
– Manufacturer Maintenance Guidelines
– UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) Guidance