In the fast-paced world of commercial kitchens, precision, safety, and efficiency are paramount. That’s where Catering Control solutions from United Automation come into play. These purpose-built catering controllers help maintain consistent heat, reduce energy waste, and enhance kitchen safety — making them indispensable for any modern food service operation.
Whether you’re managing a high-volume restaurant, hotel kitchen, or a bespoke catering business, these advanced systems ensure your equipment operates with maximum control and minimal risk.

What Are Catering Controllers?
Catering controllers are electronic devices used to regulate the power supplied to heat lamps, infrared quartz elements, and other thermal appliances common in professional kitchens. They manage temperature and energy flow with precision, providing both safety and operational consistency.
United Automation’s catering control solutions are engineered in Britain, using robust components and design practices that meet stringent commercial standards. These controllers are designed to be compact, reliable, and easy to install, with options for remote adjustment and energy-efficient control.
Key Applications of Catering Control
🔥 Infrared Quartz Heating Control
Ideal for pass-through stations and buffet setups, United Automation’s Quartz Lamp Controllers allow chefs to control infrared heating with fine-tuned precision. This ensures food remains hot without overcooking or drying out.
🧯 Ventilation Interlock Systems
Many models include or integrate with kitchen safety interlocks, ensuring ventilation systems are operational before allowing heat sources to activate. This is critical for safe catering, reducing the risk of gas or smoke build-up.
♨️ Hot-Holding Equipment
Catering controllers also maintain optimal holding temperatures for hot trays, bains-marie, and heat lamps — avoiding overheating or excessive energy usage.
Who Needs Catering Controllers?
Restaurants & Hotels
Large kitchens rely on catering control systems to manage heat output from multiple stations, ensuring safe and efficient catering during peak service times.
Cafés, Pubs & Bars
Smaller establishments can benefit from compact controllers that manage infrared heat lamps at pass-through counters or prep areas.
Outdoor & Event Caterers
Portable and energy-efficient controllers allow precise thermal management for temporary setups — like weddings, festivals, or mobile food trucks.
Food Courts & Chain Restaurants
With the need for uniform operations across locations, catering controllers standardise heat settings and ensure consistent food quality.
How Catering Controllers Improve Commercial Kitchens
✅ Enhanced Food Quality
Consistent heating means dishes stay at optimal serving temperatures without drying out, overcooking, or becoming unsafe.
✅ Increased Energy Efficiency
Controllers reduce energy use by providing only the necessary heat — helping businesses lower operational costs.
✅ Improved Kitchen Safety
Integrating ventilation interlocks and controlled output reduces the risk of fire, overheating, or equipment malfunction — a cornerstone of safe catering.
✅ Compact and Reliable
Built for busy environments, United Automation’s catering controllers are compact yet durable, with IP-rated options for demanding applications.
Why Choose United Automation?
As a British manufacturer with over 60 years of experience in industrial and commercial power control, United Automation delivers products trusted across the catering industry. Their catering control solutions are engineered for performance, safety, and ease of use — keeping your kitchen running smoothly, safely, and efficiently.
🔗 Explore Catering Controllers
Power precision is no longer a luxury in commercial kitchens — it’s essential. With United Automation’s catering control solutions, you serve with consistency, save energy, and keep your operation compliant and secure.