How to Keep Your Kitchen Exhaust System Clean
A well-maintained kitchen exhaust system is crucial to any restaurant’s operation. Not only does it ensure compliance with fire codes, but it also prevents grease and odors from accumulating in the kitchen and dining areas. A clean exhaust system also prolongs the life of your equipment and reduces the risk of fire. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to clean both your exhaust fan and your exhaust ducts.
How to Clean a Kitchen Exhaust Fan
The first step is to remove the grease filter. First, make sure to unplug the exhaust fan. Then, locate the screws that hold the filter in place and remove them. Be careful not to damage the filter as you remove it. Place it in a large pan or container. Next, prepare a cleaning solution by mixing one part water with one part vinegar or ammonia. Submerge the filter in the solution and let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour. After soaking, scrub the filter with a brush to remove any remaining dirt or grease. Once it is clean, rinse it off with water and let it air dry before reinserting it into the exhaust fan.
How to Clean a Kitchen Exhaust Duct
Begin by removing the grate or cover over the duct opening. This will give you access to the inside of the ductwork. Next, use a vacuum cleaner with an attachment to remove any loose debris from the ducts. If there is any caked-on grease or grime, you can scrub it away with a brush. Once you have removed all of the dirt and debris, replace the grate or cover over the duct opening.
How Often Should I Clean My Kitchen Exhaust?
How often you need to clean your kitchen exhaust will depend on how often you use your stovetop and how much grease is produced during cooking. For most restaurants, cleaning the exhaust fan once a month and the ductwork once a year is sufficient. However, busy establishments may need to clean their exhaust system more frequently.
A clean kitchen exhaust system is essential for any restaurant owner who wants to ensure compliance with fire codes and prevent grease and odors from accumulating in their establishment. In this blog post, we’ve shown you how to clean both your exhaust fan and your exhaust ducts. Remember that how often you need to clean your kitchen exhaust system will depend on how frequently you use your stovetop and how much grease is produced during cooking. For most restaurants, cleaning the fan once a month and the ductwork once a year should suffice—but busy establishments may need to clean their system more often than that!
