Proper maintenance of a commercial kitchen exhaust hood is crucial for safety, hygiene, and efficiency. A well-maintained hood helps to prevent fire hazards, ensures proper air quality, and extends the life of your equipment. Below is a step-by-step guide to maintaining your commercial kitchen exhaust hood.

 

1. Turn Off Power and Gas Supplies

Safety First: Always ensure that all electrical and gas connections to the exhaust hood are turned off before you begin maintenance to avoid accidents.

 

2. Remove and Clean the Grease Filters

Frequency: Filters should be cleaned regularly, ideally weekly, depending on the kitchen’s cooking volume.

Steps:

-Remove the grease filters from the hood system.

-Soak them in hot water with a degreasing solution.

-Scrub thoroughly to remove built-up grease and grime.

-Rinse with hot water and let them air dry completely before reinstalling.

-Tip: Some filters are dishwasher-safe; check the manufacturer’s guidelines.

 

3. Inspect the Exhaust Fans

Steps:

-Check the fan blades for grease buildup and clean them if necessary.

-Ensure that the fan motor is operating smoothly, without unusual sounds or vibrations.

-Lubricate moving parts as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

-Tip: A malfunctioning fan can reduce airflow efficiency and lead to poor kitchen ventilation.

 

4. Clean the Hood Interior and Exterior

Frequency: The interior should be cleaned at least once a month; the exterior can be wiped down daily.

Steps:

-Use a non-abrasive degreaser to clean the inside and outside of the hood.

-Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to remove grease, dust, and dirt.

-Pay special attention to hidden corners where grease can accumulate.

-Tip: Make sure to avoid spraying cleaning solutions directly into electrical components.

 

5. Inspect and Clean the Ductwork

Professional Cleaning: At least once every 3 to 6 months, depending on the kitchen’s usage, the ductwork should be cleaned by a certified professional.

Steps:

-Inspect the ductwork for grease buildup or blockages.

-Schedule a professional service if the ducts are too greasy or clogged.

-Tip: Grease buildup in ducts is a major fire hazard and should not be ignored.

 

6. Check and Replace Filters or Parts if Necessary

-Inspect Filters: Over time, grease filters may degrade or warp. Replace them if they show signs of wear.

-Other Parts: Check gaskets, seals, and light fixtures in the exhaust system. Replace or repair any damaged components.

 

7. Test the System

After all cleaning and maintenance steps are complete:

-Turn the power and gas back on.

-Test the exhaust system to ensure it’s working efficiently.

-Ensure proper airflow and that there are no blockages or unusual noises.

 

Maintenance Schedule Summary

Task	Frequency
Grease filter cleaning	Weekly
Exhaust hood surface cleaning	Daily (exterior), Monthly (interior)
Exhaust fan inspection	Monthly
Ductwork cleaning	Every 3-6 months (by a professional)
Full system inspection	Quarterly

 

Additional Tips

 

-Fire Suppression System: Ensure your fire suppression system is inspected regularly in accordance with local fire codes.

-Record Keeping: Maintain a log of your exhaust system cleanings and inspections for safety and compliance.

-Proper Training: Train your kitchen staff to maintain daily cleaning protocols and recognize when deeper maintenance is needed.

 

By following these steps, you can ensure your commercial kitchen exhaust hood remains in optimal condition, minimizing fire risks and promoting a cleaner, safer working environment.