Electric Bain Maries | Commercial Hot Food Holding UK
Electric bain maries provide reliable hot holding using a simple plug and play connection, ideal for offices, cafes, school kitchens and event catering. This collection covers compact countertop units through to larger multi-pan models, all powered by standard electric supplies. Capacities typically range from 1 to 6 gastronorm pans, suitable for soups, sauces, curries, carvery joints and hot sides. Most models run from a 13 amp plug, making them straightforward to position on existing counters without hardwiring.
Shop Electric Bain Maries by Capacity
Countertop, Drop-in & Mobile Plug and Play Units
Electric bain maries are available in a range of sizes and formats. Compact 1 and 2 pan countertop models are ideal where space is tight, fitting easily onto standard 60 cm deep worktops and plugging into a nearby socket. Medium 3 to 4 pan units provide enough capacity for offices, small restaurants or self-service counters that offer several hot options at once. Larger 5 to 6 pan electric bain maries suit canteens, school dining rooms and buffets needing extended hot holding.
Most units are designed for plug and play use, with factory-fitted 13 amp plugs on flexible cables for quick installation. Wet well models use water to provide gentle, even heat that is suitable for sauces and delicate dishes, while dry heat units warm up quickly and are easier to move for temporary setups. Typical power ratings range from around 800 to 1500 W for smaller models, rising to approximately 2000 to 3000 W for larger multi-pan units. Features usually include stainless steel construction, adjustable thermostatic controls, compatible gastronorm pans and lids, and removeable wells for easier cleaning.
How to Choose the Right Electric Bain Marie
Capacity & Size
Match the number of pans and total capacity to your service volume and menu. As a rough guide, a 1 or 2 pan electric bain marie suits small offices, coffee shops or mobile caterers serving a single hot main and one side. Sites serving 50 to 80 covers per sitting typically benefit from a 3 or 4 pan unit to offer multiple mains and accompaniments. Measure available counter or trolley space, allowing for cable routing and safe access to the plug socket. Check height clearance under wall cupboards and ensure staff can safely reach all pans during service.
Energy Efficiency
Electric bain maries are intended for holding, not cooking from raw, which helps manage power consumption. Preheating food in combi ovens or ranges and transferring it to the bain marie for holding is more efficient than heating from chilled in the unit. Keeping lids on pans and, for wet wells, maintaining the recommended water level reduces heat loss and energy usage. Plug and play units allow you to switch them on shortly before service and off promptly afterwards, rather than running all day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do electric bain maries need hardwiring?
Most electric bain maries in this collection are supplied ready to use with a standard 13 amp plug for quick plug and play connection. These can be used on existing ring mains, provided the circuit is not overloaded by other heavy appliances. Larger or higher power models may require a dedicated circuit and should be installed by a qualified electrician according to manufacturer guidance.
Can I move a plug and play electric bain marie between rooms?
Yes, many electric bain maries are designed to be portable, especially smaller countertop or mobile trolley units with 13 amp plugs. Always switch off and disconnect the plug before moving the unit, and allow any hot water in wet wells to cool or be drained safely. When repositioning, ensure there is a suitable socket, stable surface, and clear cable routing to avoid trip hazards during service.
