One of the biggest expenses of opening a new restaurant is buying equipment. 
A $100,000 loan might seem like a lot of money
when you are first getting ready to open, but too quickly it can run out.
Stoves, ranges, grills and coolers all represent thousands of dollars spent.
In addition, much like a new car, these items depreciate
the minute they leave the showroom.
When you begin shopping around for restaurant equipment
you will soon find out how expensive new pieces are.
Selecting quality reconditioned second-hand equipment
can save you a lot of money.

Pros of Buying Used Restaurant Equipment

• Moolah. Buying used equipment will save you precious start up cash; however remember that if all you look at is the immediate price then you might be in for a big surprise. There is an old saying ,"
  Pay Now or Pay Later" Point is that it is saver to purchase equipment from a dealer that offers you a warranty and in addition refurbishes the items not just paints over the grease.

• Due to thefailure ofvarious restaurants(not yours, of course) there are many second hand pieces of equipmentavailable (Beware).
  If you go to a restaurant auction, do your homework and find out how long the place was open. Examine the appliances, looking for tell tale signs of wear and tear like rust, missing parts, etc.
  If you are really lucky, you can stillfind some good items thatare not too old.

• Dealers of used restaurant equipment are often open to price some negotiations. Remember to know a good deal when you see it.
A good deal does not only mean the cheapest price.
If you are are good in need of a large amount of equipment the dealer would most  be able to offer you a better deal that just one item.
Don't be afraid of saying what's on your mind, be clear and full understanding makes for a better deal and a good long lasting relationship.

Cons of Buying Used Restaurant Equipment

• Warranties, or lack thereof. Used restaurant equipment is usually sold "as is." Meaning, if you hook it up at the restaurant and it doesn't work, you're out of luck.
  This is the gamble you take when buying used from auctions orprivate sales. It may seem like a good deal at the moment, but it usually isn't. The good news is that at Big Lens all of our equipment
  is completely refurnished .
  Yes, We dismantle them completely and rebuilt them to the factory specifications becausein many cases the body of the item is good, but its the insides that have deteriorated.
  So we give you a rebuilt piece that you can operate with confidence and provide a Warranty.

• Spending more money.
So If you do buy used equipment that has not been rebuilt and it breaks down, then you may have thought you saved money but will end up spending more money than if you had just bought it after being refurbished.

 Gas Ranges and Ovens - Gas ranges are the best way to go and have a long life span as far as restaurant equipment goes. 
Electric models are not as efficient, but when you have no other
choice it will do the job.

Fryers- Gas is better than electric.
You just want to make sure the fryer is calibrated properly and get the instructions on how to change the oil.

Tableware- Salt and peppershakers, centerpiece vases, dishes, glasses and such can all be purchased second hand with confidence.
The only problem you will face is finding pieces that fit with your restaurant décor.