How Often Should Your Kitchen Hood Be Cleaned?

Kitchen hood cleaning is a key component of any restaurant, as grease and other contaminants can accumulate in a hood and cause a fire. In addition, the hood serves to protect the kitchen staff from harmful particles in the air. Keeping the hood and its parts clean will ensure the safety and success of the business.

When looking for a company to perform kitchen hood cleaning, it is important to find one that can provide regular service. This is especially true if you own a restaurant. Depending on the size of your kitchen, you may need to schedule periodic cleanings. Also, keep in mind that a restaurant’s cooking process will affect the frequency of cleanings. For example, wood burning stoves require cleaning on a monthly basis.

Restaurants that operate under the NFPA-96 Standard have to follow a specific schedule for cleaning their hoods and exhaust systems. The schedule is based on the amount of food that is being prepared and the volume of grease laden vapors drawn up through the hood plenum. Generally speaking, most commercial hoods should be cleaned on a quarterly basis. If your facility is not subject to this standard, you can set your own frequency.

A typical hood cleaning involves the removal of flammable residues from interior surfaces and the cleaning of filters. You can use liquid degreasers to remove built-up grease, but it is best to avoid abrasive pads. Instead, use a soft-bristle brush and warm water to scrub the interior of the hood. It is also important to thoroughly dry the hood and fan after each cleaning.

Aside from preventing a fire, keeping your hoods and exhaust system in good working order is also important for safety reasons. Grease buildup can result in odors, as well as poor ventilation. Additionally, it can create hazardous zones for employees. Having a hood cleaning service performed can help you maintain compliance with the standards set by the National Fire Protection Association.

Many restaurant owners can get away with a quarterly cleaning schedule. But, if your hood is very large or has a lot of fans, you may need to have it cleaned more often. Your hood will be cleaned along with all of its parts, including the ductwork and fans.

During the cleaning, your hood will be inspected to see if there are any anomalies that Hood Cleaning need attention. Technicians will take note of any problems that they notice and then make repairs. They will also polish the inside and outside of the hood to prevent buildup.

After your hood is cleaned, a proof of performance decal will be placed on the canopy. This decal is visible to the fire marshal and will serve as evidence that the hood was properly cleaned. Some contractors will also pressure wash baffle filters.

As part of the process, the contractor will form a chute that runs around the perimeter of the hood. This chute will lead into a 55-gallon drum. Once the hood is filled with grease, the contractor will place plastic bags on top to funnel the buildup.