Restaurant & Commercial
Consumers stocks a wide variety of restaurant and commercial fixtures which meet ADA and Chicago code requirements.
Restaurant & Commercial Plumbing — Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about commercial plumbing fixtures and supplies for Chicago restaurants and businesses
Q
Where can I buy commercial plumbing fixtures and restaurant plumbing supplies in Chicago?
Consumers Supply Company at 1110 W. Lake St. in Chicago carries commercial plumbing fixtures including three-compartment sinks, hand sinks, mop sinks, pre-rinse faucets, grease traps, and related commercial plumbing hardware. The store serves restaurants, bars, food service operators, property managers, and contractors throughout the Chicago area. Walk-ins are welcome — call (312) 666-6080 to confirm availability on specific items before making the trip.
Q
What commercial plumbing fixtures does Consumers Supply carry?
The commercial lineup at Consumers Supply includes three-compartment sinks, hand washing sinks, mop sinks, commercial pre-rinse spray valves and faucets, floor drains, grease traps, and related fittings and valves. These are the core fixtures found in commercial kitchens and food service operations throughout Chicago. Stock and specific models vary — call (312) 666-6080 or stop by to discuss your project needs.
Q
What is a three-compartment sink used for in a restaurant?
A three-compartment sink is the standard fixture for manual warewashing in a commercial kitchen. The three compartments are used in sequence for washing, rinsing, and sanitizing dishes, utensils, and cookware. It must be supplied with hot and cold running water and proper drainage. Three-compartment sinks are a fundamental piece of equipment in any commercial food service kitchen, and Consumers Supply stocks commercial-grade models built for the demands of a working kitchen.
Q
What is a dedicated hand washing sink and why does a restaurant need one?
A dedicated hand washing sink is a sink reserved exclusively for hand washing — it is not used for food prep, equipment washing, or any other purpose. Hand sinks are a standard fixture in commercial kitchens and food service areas, positioned so kitchen staff can wash hands frequently and conveniently without cross-contaminating work surfaces or equipment. Consumers Supply carries commercial hand sinks in sizes appropriate for restaurant and food service installations.
Q
What is a grease trap and does my Chicago restaurant need one?
A grease trap (also called a grease interceptor) is a plumbing device installed in a commercial kitchen’s drain line that captures fats, oils, and grease before they enter the sewer system. Grease traps are standard equipment for restaurants, bars, cafeterias, and any food service operation that produces grease-laden wastewater — protecting both the building’s drain lines and the city sewer system from buildup and blockages. Consumers Supply carries grease traps for commercial kitchen applications. Call (312) 666-6080 to discuss the right size for your operation.
Q
What is a pre-rinse spray valve and do I need one for my commercial kitchen?
A pre-rinse spray valve is a high-flow, spring-loaded faucet assembly mounted above the dish pit used to rinse food debris off dishes and cookware before they go into the dishwasher or three-compartment sink. It’s a standard fixture in virtually every commercial kitchen and dramatically speeds up the dishwashing process. Consumers Supply carries commercial pre-rinse units built to NSF and commercial durability standards.
Q
Can a restaurant owner purchase plumbing fixtures directly from Consumers Supply?
Yes. Consumers Supply sells directly to restaurant owners, bar owners, property managers, and anyone opening or renovating a commercial food service space — no contractor account required. Many operators purchase fixtures directly and have their plumber handle installation, which gives them more control over equipment selection and cost. Stop by at 1110 W. Lake St. or call (312) 666-6080 to discuss what your kitchen or buildout requires.
Q
I’m opening a new restaurant in Chicago — what plumbing fixtures do I typically need?
A new commercial kitchen will typically need a three-compartment sink, at least one dedicated hand washing sink, a mop sink, a grease trap on the kitchen drain line, and floor drains in appropriate locations. Most full-service kitchens also include a pre-rinse spray valve at the dish station and a commercial water heater capable of maintaining adequate hot water supply. Your plumber and the city approval process will determine the exact layout and specifications for your space. Consumers Supply can supply the core fixtures — call (312) 666-6080 and describe your project and we can walk you through what’s available.
Q
Does Consumers Supply serve plumbing contractors doing commercial work in Chicago?
Yes. Consumers Supply has served Chicago-area plumbing contractors for decades and is a go-to source for commercial fixtures, specialty items, and hard-to-find parts for restaurant and commercial plumbing jobs. Contractors are welcome to walk in or call (312) 666-6080 to check stock and discuss project needs. The store’s West Loop location at 1110 W. Lake St. is convenient to job sites throughout the city.
Q
Can Consumers Supply help with a commercial kitchen plumbing repair or replacement?
Consumers Supply is a supplier, not an installation or service company — but if your restaurant needs a replacement faucet, a new pre-rinse valve, a grease trap, or any other commercial plumbing fixture, the store stocks the hardware you need for same-day pickup. For operators dealing with a broken fixture mid-service, getting to 1110 W. Lake St. or calling (312) 666-6080 is the fastest path to getting the part in hand so your plumber can get you back up and running.
