Best triple compartment sink for commercial kitchens – stainless steel durability under $900
Streamline wash, rinse, and sanitize with a triple compartment sink that supports health‑code workflows and daily volume. This guide focuses on stainless options from John Boos and highlights key checks for fit, plumbing, and workspace planning. See our top pick under $900, plus a premium upgrade if you need more capacity or heavier‑duty construction. Use the model list to compare sizes, features, and installation considerations before you order.
Generated 09/19/2025
Recommendation
This John Boos E Series 59" Three Compartment Sink directly matches your request for a John Boos triple-compartment sink and fits comfortably within your stated budget of $1,200. At 59" wide with three basins and a listed 12" bowl depth, it gives the separate wash/rinse/sanitize workflow required in commercial or heavy-use kitchens while carrying the durability expected from John Boos. Why this is a strong choice: John Boos is a recognized commercial-kitchen brand known for sturdy stainless-steel equipment; this E Series unit combines a roomy overall footprint with deep basins that handle large pots and high-volume washing. The listed price of $891.57 represents very good value for a three-compartment stainless sink from a reputable maker—durability and ease of cleaning are two main advantages you’ll gain. Budget fit: Priced at $891.57, this model is approximately $308 under your $1,200 budget, leaving funds available for necessary accessories (faucet, pre-rinse sprayer, drain fittings, splash guards) or professional installation. The savings also give room to add a drainboard, undershelf, or upgraded faucet if desired. Things to consider: - Confirm exact overall footprint and individual basin dimensions to ensure it fits your space and counters. - Check whether faucets, drains, tailpieces, and strainer baskets are included; many sinks are sold body-only. - Verify local health-code and plumbing requirements (backflow prevention, drain pitch, trap placement). - Professional installation is recommended for proper leveling, secure anchoring, and water/sewer hookups. - Routine maintenance: use non-abrasive cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals that damage finish. This model is a practical, budget-friendly choice for a durable three-compartment work sink and leaves room in your budget for accessories and installation.
Recommendation criteria
The recommendation is based on these requirements:
Our recommendation – John Boos E Series 59" Three Compartment Sink
A practical fit for most back‑of‑house stations, this E Series three‑bowl sink balances durability, footprint, and price. The 59‑inch width gives workable room for wash, rinse, and sanitize without overwhelming a modest dish area. Straightforward, no‑frills construction keeps maintenance simple and integrates easily with common commercial faucets and drains. For operators who want a dependable John Boos sink without moving into oversized Pro lines, it’s a sensible, cost‑controlled choice.
- John Boos build from a widely used commercial line
- Under $900, aligning with cost‑control goals
- Balanced size for typical small to mid‑volume stations
- Simple to spec and install with standard accessories
Other products analyzed at the time
John Boos 3B184 3 Compartment Sink
$1,392.75 - KaTom Restaurant Supply
Our evaluationCompactJohn Boos 3B184 3 Compartment Sink – Compact three‑bowl footprint for tight spacesA space‑saving triple sink suited to narrow dish stations or food truck commissaries. Good when you need three compartments but have limited linear run.
John Boos E3S8-18-14T18 3 Compartment Sink
$1,088.00 - GoFoodservice.com
Budget alternativeOur evaluationWith drainboardsJohn Boos E3S8-18-14T18 3 Compartment Sink – Three bowls with flanking workspaceIncludes side space for staging or air‑drying, useful when you need some counter area built into the sink assembly.
John Boos Pro-Bowl Compartment Sink 3PBPS3224-1D24L
$3,465.20 - RestaurantSupply.com
PremiumOur evaluationHeavy-dutyJohn Boos Pro-Bowl Compartment Sink 3PBPS3224-1D24L – Heavy‑duty build with integrated drainboardA larger Pro‑Bowl configuration designed for higher throughput and tougher daily use. The left drainboard adds needed landing area for racks and trays.
John Boos Pro Bowl NSF Compartment Three Bowl Sink
$2,429.49 - ACityDiscount
Our evaluationNSF-ratedJohn Boos Pro Bowl NSF Compartment Three Bowl Sink – Pro‑tier construction with compliance in mindA professional three‑bowl option when you want Pro series robustness and labeled compliance features for regulated kitchens.
FAQ
How do I choose the right triple compartment sink size and configuration?
Start with your available linear space and clearance to walls or equipment. Check bowl dimensions against your largest sheet pan or stock pot. Decide if you need drainboards and on which side(s). Confirm faucet type (wall vs. deck mount), hole spacing, and drain locations. A quick decision tip: if staff routinely queue items, prioritize a model with at least one integrated drainboard.
What offers the best value for a three‑compartment sink under $900?
Look for mid‑tier stainless construction, straightforward legs and bracing, and a layout that matches your pans and racks to avoid add‑ons later. Avoid oversizing: wider Pro configurations raise cost and footprint. A model like the John Boos E Series 59" balances durability and price; premium lines are worthwhile only if you truly need heavier‑duty capacity or integrated drainboards.
Will a triple compartment sink work with my existing plumbing and faucet?
Confirm supply type (hot/cold lines), faucet mount (wall or deck), and center‑to‑center spacing for the mixing valve. Verify drain size and trap height relative to the bowl outlets, and ensure a compliant air gap for sanitizing. If replacing a unit, measure rough‑ins before ordering; small differences in hole spacing or drain position can complicate installation.
What maintenance keeps a stainless three‑compartment sink looking good?
Rinse food acids away promptly, wash with mild detergent, then wipe dry to reduce mineral spotting. Avoid steel wool or chlorine bleach; use non‑abrasive pads and a stainless‑safe cleaner for scale. Keep legs level and tighten set screws periodically. Protect surfaces from hammering or prying to maintain seams and welds, and use racks or mats to reduce scratching.
When is a triple compartment sink preferable to alternatives?
Choose three bowls when you need a dedicated wash‑rinse‑sanitize workflow and do not rely solely on a dishmachine. Two‑compartment sinks suit light prep areas, while a single bowl is best for utility tasks. If you process large sheet pans constantly, a wider Pro unit with a drainboard can improve throughput versus a compact layout.
How do I fix a slow‑draining sink compartment?
First, clear the strainer and remove visible debris. Flush with hot water and a mild, non‑corrosive cleaner. If the slowdown persists, disassemble and clean the P‑trap, then re‑seal joints. Avoid harsh chemical drain openers that can damage stainless and seals. Persistent backups often indicate venting or line issues—schedule a licensed plumber to inspect before service hours.
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