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How-To: Stay Out in Front With the Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart

How-To: Stay Out in Front With the Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart

Imagine if there was a utility cart that could easily transport heavy-duty loads with both pushing and pulling functionalities. Well, Lakeside recently introduced their Push-Pull Utility Cart that does just that! This utility push cart is ready to use right out of the box and has a convenient swing-out handle that easily converts from push to pull. Plus, it has smart design features like heads-up ergonomics for a wider view and ankle protection. In today's blog post, we'll briefly walk foodservice operators through how to use this sustainable cart, including its optional on-board hitch bar system for towing multiple Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts at once. Ready to push and pull? Let’s get started!

Converting From Push to Pull On the Fly

To Pull…

The Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart is designed with a swing-out handle that can quickly convert from push to pull mode instantly. To use it, a foodservice professional will need to simply press down on the handle’s integrated latch to unlock the swing-out feature, freeing it from the hinged handle locks. With the swing-out handle unlocked, the operator can now begin pulling the cart to their desired destination with ease.

To Push…

But what if an operator needs to convert the cart back to pushing? It’s a breeze. They will need to push the swing-out handle back into the integrated latch where it started. A click will be heard when it locks back into place. Now, an operator can navigate the cart around tight corners, maneuver around furnishings, and cover long distances by pushing the cart.

This handle design makes it easy for foodservice operators to switch from push to pull mode without the need for any tools. It’s that versatile and simple!

The Lakeside 163421 Push-Pull Utility Cart can convert from push to pull on the fly.

Experiencing Heads Up Ergonomics For Wider View

Have you ever seen a foodservice operator pushing a utility cart full of boxes and thought they were playing a game of bumper carts? It’s frustrating and even dangerous to say the least. That’s why the Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart is a game-changer in the foodservice industry.

With its heads-up ergonomics design, a foodservice professional can finally see clearly ahead when navigating through even the tightest spaces. No more knocking over stacks of boxes or bumping into hidden obstacles in the back-of-the-house. 

Plus this stainless steel push cart’s ergonomic swing-out handle design provides maximum comfort while reducing strain on an operator’s hands and wrists.

Lakeside 163421 Push-Pull Utility Cart specifications.

Avoiding Contact With Ankles

Every foodservice professional has been there, pulling a utility cart that just won’t cooperate. It feels like every step is a struggle, and to top it off, an operator will usually unintentionally keep bumping the thing into their ankles. 

Ouch, right? Well, the Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart has those very same foodservice professional’s backs (or, well, their ankles). This cart’s durable design ensures there’s no painful contact between an operator’s feet and the cart’s edge. It’s like the pulling cart is saying, “Hey there buddy, I don’t want to hurt you!” 

Plus, the push handle accommodates a wide range of user heights and stride lengths to keep it far away from an operator’s feet when they’re in pulling mode. Safety first they say, especially when pulling heavy-duty loads up to 700-Lb.!

Lakeside 163421 Push-Pull Utility Cart specifications.

Towing Multiple Carts With Optional On-Board Hitch Bar System

Picture this: You’re a busy foodservice operator trying to get everything done efficiently. You’ve got heavy-duty boxes of supplies and equipment, but only one cart to haul it all. If only there was a faster way to haul more…

That’s where the optional on-board hitch bar system available for the Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart comes into play. The hitch bar is located on the cart’s bottom shelf, neatly tucked away underneath the swing-out handle and can connect frame crossmembers of multiple Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts together when an operator needs to hook up another cart. 

To connect two Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts together, all an operator has to do is turn the hitch bar on the first cart so it’s perpendicular to both carts’ frame crossmembers. Then, they will simply need to attach the end of the hitch bar to the hole in the other cart’s frame crossmember. It’s as easy as that!

This is a versatile and sustainable option for foodservice professionals that need to transport a lot of items quickly and easily. Imagine how much more an operator can get done by pulling multiple carts full of supplies at the same time!

The Lakeside 163421 Push-Pull Utility Cart has an optional on-board hitch bar system that can tow multiple Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts at once.

Staying Out Front With the Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart

The Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart proves to be an invaluable multi-functional resource for foodservice operators who need to stay at the front in the back-of-the-house. Its versatility allows it to be used as a push or pull cart in seconds, while its ergonomically designed handle provides a heads up view. Moreover, its hitch bar system is perfect for multiple carts being towed at once, allowing foodservice professionals to get the job done quickly and efficiently. So don't let an operator wait, stay out front with the Lakeside Push-Pull Utility Cart!

Stay Out Front

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How-To: Use the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart for Effortless Transport

How-To: Use the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart for Effortless Transport

As our society becomes increasingly dependent on technology and automation, the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart can be a game-changer in various industries for a variety of operators. Whether that operator is working in healthcare, long-term care, hospitality, K-12, or C&U, the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart can make hard work more efficient and effortless. The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart, in particular, is a powerful and sustainable tool that can make transportation of heavy items over long distances much more manageable with less staff. In this how-to guide, we will take a closer look at the features of the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart and offer some tips on how to use it.

Breaking Down The Controls…

Before an operator starts transporting with the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart, they must get accustomed to the cart’s controls. The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart comes with a wealth of versatile controls all at the fingertips of foodservice operators that step up to its ergonomic push handle. Here’s a brief rundown of each control:

Battery Charge Indicator - Indicates life of battery carriage underneath transaxle. If green bars are present, the cart is almost or fully charged. If only yellow or red bars are present, then the cart needs to be charged. Note: A fully charged battery will last 8 hours with standard usage.

Dual-Speed Switch - Features both a white silhouette of a turtle and rabbit. When the turtle’s side is pushed down, the cart can accelerate up to 1.5 MPH. When the rabbit’s side is pushed up, the cart can accelerate up to 3.0 MPH!

Horn Button - Activates the cart’s 68 dB horn. This is the perfect safety feature when an operator is transporting in a loud and traffic heavy environment such as a school, kitchen or loading dock.

Keyed Lock - Includes a key utilized for turning the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart “ON” and “OFF”. When the key is inserted inside the key lock, an operator should turn clockwise to turn the cart’s motor “ON”. They should turn the key counterclockwise to turn the cart “OFF”. The keyed lock is also designed to prevent unauthorized usage, which is vital in environments where security and safety are a top priority.

Control Levers - Activate the cart’s forward and reverse acceleration functionalities.  

Emergency Stop Button - Immediately stops the cart to ensure operator safety and prevent injuries. Note: Key will need to be turned “OFF” to reset controls after an emergency stop is activated. 

Dual-Speed Switch. Emergency Stop Button. Battery Charge Indicator. Horn Button. Keyed Lock. Control Levers.

Utilizing Forward and Reverse Control Levers

Now that an operator has gotten familiar with the Motorized Utility Cart’s main functions, they are now ready to begin transporting supplies from point A to point B. The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart has forward and reverse motion control levers that allow for effortless transport of heavy loads in any direction, including on uneven terrain. When at the cart’s handle, the operator will see two red levers on both of the control panel’s sides. Push these up and the cart accelerates forward. Push these down and the cart moves in reverse. 

When in motion, an operator shouldn’t hesitate to use the dual-speed switch as well. As mentioned above, this switch can convert from either 0.1 to 1.5 MPH or 0.1 to 3.0 MPH on the fly! This is incredibly useful when an operator needs that extra kick when going up a steep incline.

Top: Push up to accelerate. Bottom: Push down to reverse.

Switching to Non-Motorized Use

There is an engagement override lever located on the right side of the transaxle, which provides the option for non-motorized use. To switch to non-motorized use, an operator should simply push the lever up. Conversely, to return to motorized use, an operator should push the lever down, making it perpendicular to the transaxle. This feature offers convenient versatility and ease of operation.

Switching to non-motorized use

Hauling Heavy Duty Loads Over Long Distances and Inclines

The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart is powered by a powerful 24-volt DC transaxle that allows it to haul heavy duty loads over long distances and inclines without any difficulty or fatigue. This Lakeside cart's robust battery powered electric motor does not require any fuel or gas, making it economical and environmentally-friendly. The motor is also incredibly quiet, which is ideal for use in environments such as hospitals, where noise can cause disruptions. The cart's 3 spacious 24” x 26” shelves with 3 shelf edges up, 1 down, enables safe transport of heavy duty loads up to 1,000-Lb., increasing labor efficiency.

Left: Hauls effortlessly up and down inclines. Right: Hauls heavy duty loads up to 1,000-Lb.

Activating Automatic Stop

The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart also has an automatic stop feature that activates when the operator releases control. This ensures safe and convenient operation of the cart when hauling heavy duty loads up and down inclines.

Casters For a Variety of Environments and Surfaces

The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart is a versatile solution for a wide range of environments, including hospitals, senior living communities, schools, loading docks, kitchens, recreation rooms, and parking lots. It is equipped with 4 durable 8" casters that provide excellent grip and stable maneuverability, even on uneven terrain. 

The cart features 2 fixed, flat-free non-marking power wheels with grip tread in the front and 2 swivel (with brakes) rear wheels outfitted with non-marking cushion-tread. In order for an operator to engage the rear brakes, they simply need to apply pressure with their foot to either the "OFF" or "ON" side. This straightforward action further ensures the Lakeside cart will not roll down inclines.

Casters maneuver smoothly over uneven terrain

Maneuvering Slim Profile Through Most Doorways

One of the best features of the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart is its slim profile, making it perfect for use in and around tight spaces. This Lakeside cart's 24-1/2” wide slim design allows it to fit through most doorways comfortably, making transportation of heavy items more accessible and safer

The cart's narrow profile also enhances its maneuverability around tight corners and furnishings, making it an ideal choice in healthcare environments. Combine this with the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart’s motion controls and hauling heavy loads around corners and tight spaces is effortless.

24-1/2" slim profile fits through most doorways

Charging Quick Charge Battery Carriage When Not in Use

To get the most out of the cart's power, it is essential to ensure that the battery is charged properly and maintained regularly. This is done by turning the key counterclockwise to power it off. Immediately after, an operator should plug the quick charge battery carriage’s power cord into a nearby outlet. The power cord possesses three tongs and is located at the front of the cart on top of the transaxle for easy storage and access.

Power cord being plugged into wall.

Static Release Floor Belt Dissipates Static Charges

The battery carriage also includes a static release floor belt. This is an overlooked safety feature that dissipates static charges so that the operator isn’t electrocuted or seriously injured. When looking under the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart, an operator will notice it hanging off of the battery carriage.

Static release floor belt dissipates static charge

It’s Time to Power Up

The Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart is an excellent investment for both foodservice and healthcare industries that require the transportation of heavy items with limited staffing. Its powerful battery powered motor, slim design, and versatile features make it a top choice for effortlessly hauling heavy loads in various industries, including healthcare, long-term care, hospitality, K-12 and C&U settings. By following our tips on how to use it correctly, an operator can maximize the benefits of this Lakeside cart and make work more efficient, effortless and fatigue free! Click ‘Power Upbelow to see the Lakeside Motorized Utility Cart in action!

Power Up

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Innovation Infusion: The Remarkable Transformation of a Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility Cart

Innovation Infusion: The Remarkable Transformation of a Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility Cart

The Backstory of the Specimen Cart:

In the healthcare industry, efficiency and precision are critical. Laboratories require equipment that can handle sensitive test tubes and other specimens while also being easy to transport and maneuver. That's why Lakeside was thrilled when a top-tier hospital reached out to us for a customized version of our Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility Cart. The lab was looking for a customized cart that could safely hold and transport their specimen rack from one location to another. So, without further adieu, let’s dive into the remarkable transformation of the 711 into a cutting-edge specimen cart.

Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility Cart on top left over food. Lakeside Customized 711 Stainless Steel Specimen Utility Cart on bottom right over medical equipment.

How We Executed It:

At Lakeside, we take pride in providing innovative and sustainable solutions that meet the needs of our customers. Our team worked closely with the lab to ensure that the revamped Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility Cart was precisely what they required. We started by adding horizontal square tube supports to prevent tipping and spills, ensuring that the utility cart would be safe and efficient for transporting sensitive specimen vials and their contaminants.

To ensure accuracy and precision, we meticulously verified measurements and fit with the lab. The result? A cart that can securely hold a custom-sized 18” x 27.5” tray and has a maximum shelf weight capacity of 200-Lb. With fully welded seams and leg bumpers on all four legs, the specimen cart was designed for durability and longevity.

The lack of a handle on the specimen cart allows for easy access from both sides. Additionally, the utility cart features four 5” swivel casters, making it easy to maneuver and move around the lab. This customized Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility is perfect for labs of all sizes, and its durable stainless steel construction will ensure that it lasts for years to come.

Design and Construction Specifications: 430 Grade Stainless Steel Welded Construction. (1) Shelf to Hold 18" x 27.5" Customized Tray. Fully Welded Seams. Maximum Shelf Weight Capacity of 200-Lb. No Handle. Leg Bumpers on All Four Legs. Horizontal Square Tube Supports. (4) 5" Swivel Casters.

A Sustainable Result

The remarkable transformation of the Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility Cart into a cutting-edge specimen cart is a testament to the innovative and sustainable solutions we provide at Lakeside. We worked hand-in-hand with a top-tier hospital to ensure that their needs were met with precision and accuracy. Today, the same cart is currently utilized in labs across the country owned by the same company. We're proud of the work we've done and look forward to continuing to provide innovative solutions that contribute to improved healthcare outcomes.

This customized Lakeside 711 Stainless Steel Utility Cart was outfitted to fit an 18" x 27.5" specimen rack on its top shelf.

Feeling inspired? Want to design the perfect cart for your healthcare facility and its needs? Well, as you found out with the specimen cart, no design is too difficult for us to turn into reality. Get started with a free consultation by clicking ‘Design Your Cart’ to speak to our Lakeside customer service team!

Design Your Cart

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Unlock the Power of Learning With Lakeside Carts!

Unlock The Power of Learning with Lakeside Carts!

When it comes to culinary arts, learning is an essential part of the process. For culinary students, being equipped with all the necessary tools is essential to achieving goals throughout the hospitality industry. One of these tools is the right kind of utility push cart. Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts have been proven to be an exceptional choice for many culinary students. In this blog, we'll be discussing some of the features of these stainless steel utility push carts and how they can be utilized by culinary arts students.

Tools of the Trade

Lakeside 444 and 459 Stainless Steel Utility Carts:

All-Welded Angle Leg Design Provides Durability

One of the top features of Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts is the all-welded angle leg design, which provides durability. With this design, future foodservice operators can be sure that the Lakeside cart can hold up heavy cooking equipment and utensils without breaking or wobbling. This is especially important at a busy convention center or resort, where everything is constantly moving.

Sound Deadening Material Under Shelves

Another impressive feature of Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility is the sound-deadening material underneath its shelves. This feature helps to restrict vibrations and reduce noise. As a culinary student, this is particularly important because you need to be able to work in a peaceful environment without any unnecessary distractions.

500-Lb. Weight Capacity for Medium Duty Loads

Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts such as both the 444 and 459 are made of durable, heavy-gauge stainless steel that can withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen. This makes them perfect for carrying heavy pots, pans, and ingredients, as well as larger kitchen tools like mixers and food processors.

Stainless Steel Utility Carts. Medium Duty - 500-Lb. Capacity
Cart Features:
All-Welded Angle Leg
Sound Deadening Material Under Shelves
500-Lb. Weight Capacity for Medium Duty Loads
Optional Accessories:
Perimeter shelf mounted strip bumper
Set of two each brake casters 
Cushion tread wheels
Clear vinyl slipover box type cover
Extended perimeter bumper
8" swivel casters

Lakeside 744 Stainless Steel Utility Cart: 

Larger 8” Front Wheels

These wheels allow for transitions over uneven surfaces with ease. Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts such as the 744 help students move food and supplies over bumps, cracks, and cords easily. This feature is especially helpful if culinary students transport across different surfaces such as carpets, thresholds, and even hard floors. 

Fixed Front Wheels Help Guide Cart in Straight Line

This feature makes it easier for culinary students to navigate around corners. These students often need to maneuver stainless steel utility carts around corners and narrow aisles. The Lakeside 744 Stainless Steel Utility Cart steps up to the challenge with ease providing stability during transport.

700-Lb. Weight Capacity for Heavy Duty Loads

Some Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Carts such as the 744 have a weight capacity of up to 700 pounds, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks. Culinary students working with large volumes of food or equipment can benefit from this capacity, easily moving essential items from one station to another. The cart's sturdy construction ensures the safe transportation of various loads without the risk of the cart breaking or buckling under the weight.

Stainless Steel Utility Carts. Heavy Duty - 700-Lb capacity.
Cart features:
Larger 8" Front Wheels
Fixed Front Wheels
700-Lb. Weight Capacity for Heavy Duty Loads
Optional Accessories:
Extended perimeter bumper
All 5" swivel casters
Set of 2 ea. 5" brake casters

The Do’s and Don'ts When Using Lakeside’s Utility Carts

For aspiring foodservice operators wanting to work in non-commercial hospitality, such as in resorts or convention centers, there are definitely some do's and don'ts for them to keep in mind, especially when it comes to handling equipment like stainless steel utility carts. 

Do:

Keep Stainless Steel Carts Clean and Organized:

By not keeping a stainless steel utility cart clean and organized could lead to major health risks for consumers. Preventing any possibilities of contamination is pretty simple. Culinary students must make sure to wipe down the utility cart before and after every use. Customers will be thankful for this easy, but important step.

Secure It When Not in Use:

Imagine how chaotic and traumatic it would be if you had a utility cart full of food and supplies and it happened to lose control and injure someone. How can a student prevent something like this from ever happening? By securing it when it’s not in use! Lakeside offers optional brakes on its stainless steel utility carts to help keep everyone safe. It’s best for culinary students to not take any chances and remember to always secure their utility cart!

Don’t:

Overload Utility Carts Beyond Their Weight Limit:

Weight capacity is unique to each and every stainless steel utility cart. A culinary student should always check how much a utility cart can hold. For example, a Lakeside 444 would not be able to hold 700 pounds because its weight capacity is 500 pounds. Please see our past blog, ‘The 5 Levels of Durability In Lakeside’s Utility Carts’ to understand how much each type of cart can hold and for how long.

Be Rough:

Culinary students must be gentle with stainless steel utility carts as rough handling can cause damage and messy spills, which nobody wants to deal with. Keeping it smooth is key for future foodservice operators to relay to their staff as they navigate through the aisles of the back-of-the-house. 

With a little bit of patience, attention to detail, and common sense, students can make working with these carts a breeze!

Do's: Keep carts clean and organized. Secure when not in use. 
Don'ts: Overload carts over weight limit. Be rough.

The Next-Generation of Chefs

Many colleges around the nation are wasting no time in training the next-generation of chefs in order to meet the demands of a thriving hospitality industry. Take for example, Florida Technical College (FTC) International School of Culinary Arts, who recently unveiled a new training kitchen equipped with new, industry-grade kitchen equipment such as burner stoves, ovens, prep counters, essential safety equipment, and more. By having real tools and equipment to work with, students will be fully prepared to enter this foodservice segment and see success right from the start.

Maximizing efficiency in foodservice begins with utilizing essential equipment like utility carts. Although they may not be as glamorous as stoves or ovens, they play a crucial role in saving time during transport and maintaining consistent organization of supplies. Despite this, many individuals overlook how to properly use these carts. Clear and straightforward guidelines in the form of helpful tips mentioned above can make a significant impact on the next-generation of chefs and their productivity.

Chefs in kitchen learning. Lakeside Stainless Steel Utility Cart in bottom left corner.

The Choice For The Future

Lakeside carts are an excellent choice for culinary arts students due to their durability, sound-deadening material, and easy-to-clean stainless steel construction. For culinary students, having the right kind of equipment can be the difference between a successful and unsuccessful career in culinary arts. With a Lakeside cart, future foodservice operators will be well equipped to achieve their goals and enjoy the learning process without limitations. So, why not unlock the power of learning with Lakeside carts?

Unlock The Power