Utah Fire Prevention | Fire Suppression Systems, Hood Exhaust Cleaning, Fire Alarms
3333 S 900 E Ste. 100, Millcreek, UT 84106801-935-4012
#Keep Your Restaurant Kitchen Exhaust System Clean and Efficient
##Why Regular Cleaning is Essential
**Kitchen exhaust systems** work hard to vent heat, grease, smoke and odors out of the kitchen while helping control the dining environment. Over time, grease deposits accumulate on the hoods, ducts, fans and other components. Without regular cleaning, this grease is a major fire risk.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 8,000 restaurant building fires occur in the United States every year. A dirty kitchen exhaust system is a primary cause. Professional cleaning removes the grease before it can be ignited from a spark or overheated system.
In addition to fire prevention, a clean kitchen exhaust system will run more efficiently. Grease and dirt cause air resistance, making fans work harder to properly vent the kitchen. This leads to higher energy bills and wear and tear. Proper cleaning is essential for fire safety and optimal operation.
##Signs It's Time for Professional Cleaning
It's easy to put off **exhaust cleaning**, but there are signs that indicate it's time. Dark, thick deposits around the hoods, vents and fans indicate a heavy grease load. Strong cooking odors lingering in the kitchen or dining room also suggest insufficient ventilation.
A licensed inspector can examine all components and identify potential fire and performance issues. Have inspections done periodically, such as every 3 or 6 months, even if the system appears clean. It's also recommended after any kitchen remodeling or equipment upgrades.
##The Professional Exhaust Cleaning Process
Thorough cleaning of the entire exhaust system should be left to qualified professionals with specialized tools and techniques. Here is an overview of the multi-step process:
- Access equipment like ladders, lifts and scaffolding is set up to reach all areas.
- The hoods, vents, ducts, fans and other components are scraped to remove grease deposits.
- Degreasing chemicals are applied to dissolve and remove remaining residue.
- A pressure wash rinses away all grease and degreasers.
- The system is checked for any damage or leaks needing repair.
- Filters are cleaned thoroughly or replaced if necessary.
- A sanitizing treatment is applied to deodorize and inhibit future grease buildup.
- All access areas are sealed and secured once completed.
**Proper cleaning** often takes several hours or more depending on the size of the system. It also requires containment measures for grease runoff. Trust this intensive job to knowledgeable professionals.
##Signs of Problems After Cleaning
Once the exhaust system cleaning is finished, the kitchen should operate more efficiently and safely. However, it's a good idea to watch for any signs of lingering issues:
- Strong odors or smoke persisting after cleaning.
- Visible grease deposits returning quickly.
- Increased buildup around any joints, seams or connections.
- Noisy, vibrating or wobbly fans.
- Higher energy bills for the same amount of cooking.
- Hot or warm spots on hoods or ductwork.
If any of these issues are noticed, contact the cleaning company to inspect and resolve the problems.
##Create a Regular Cleaning Schedule
To keep your kitchen exhaust system operating safely and efficiently for the long run, schedule professional cleanings on a regular basis.
Most commercial kitchens should be cleaned every 3 to 6 months. High volume or 24-hour operations may need quarterly or even monthly cleanings. Cooking styles also impact frequency, such as charbroiling or frying needing more often service.
Discuss an appropriate schedule with the cleaning company based on your kitchen usage. Some localities may have minimum requirements as well. **Consistent professional cleaning** is the best way to maximize safety and efficiency over years of service.
##The Benefits of a Spotless Exhaust System
A commercial kitchen exhaust system works hard every day to keep the kitchen safe and comfortable while venting heat, smoke and odors. Regular professional cleaning provides major benefits:
Fire Prevention
Reducing extensive grease buildup helps significantly lower fire risks. Kitchen fires harm personnel, destroy property and interrupt business. Professional exhaust cleaning removes the flammable grease before ignition sources create a disaster.
Improved Airflow
Grease and residue reduce airflow, making the system work harder to vent the kitchen properly. Thorough cleaning removes buildup, restoring smooth airflow to optimize efficiency.
Enhanced Safety
In addition to lessening fire risks, clean hoods, ducts and fans ensure airborne contaminants are adequately removed. Proper ventilation maintains a safer, more comfortable work environment.
Energy Savings
With clean components restoring smooth airflow, the exhaust system doesn't have to work as hard to function effectively. The fans and motors preserve energy, reducing electric bills.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Preventative cleaning helps minimize damages from excessive grease buildup or debris. Fewer repairs means lower maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Extended System Lifespan
Consistent cleaning removes the grease, dirt and residues that can degrade system components. This helps extend the working lifespan of hoods, fans, controls and ductwork.
Improved Dining Experience
Without odors and smoke escaping into the dining room, the restaurant experience for patrons is more enjoyable. Proper ventilation keeps the dining atmosphere comfortable.
By making professional kitchen exhaust cleaning a regular priority, the many benefits keep commercial cooking operations running cleanly, safely and efficiently for years.
##Questions to Ask Potential Providers
Since proper **exhaust system cleaning** is so vital, it's important to hire a qualified company with experienced technicians and the right capabilities. Here are some key questions to ask potential providers before hiring:
- Are you licensed, bonded and insured for commercial kitchen exhaust cleaning?
- What qualifications and training do your technicians have?
- What methods and equipment do you use?
- Do you follow National Fire Protection Association Standard 96 guidelines?
- Can you access my entire exhaust system thoroughly?
- How will you contain and dispose of grease and waste properly?
- What chemicals and cleaning products do you use? Are they approved for kitchen systems?
- Will you check for any repairs needed and summarize findings in a report?
- Can you clean all filters, hoods, ducts, vents, and fans completely?
- Do you offer repairs, parts replacements, or upgrades if needed?
- What additional kitchen services do you provide?
- Can you provide references from other commercial kitchen clients?
- Will you document the cleaning with photos or video?
- Do you offer service contracts or scheduled cleanings?
- What are your insurance and licensing credentials?
- Are there any guarantees if I'm not fully satisfied with the cleaning?
Getting extensive answers to questions like these ensures you select the right provider for such an important job. Investing in professional **kitchen exhaust cleaning** on a regular schedule provides big returns through safety, efficiency and proper operation
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