Are you in charge of the kitchen at a restaurant or other commercial facility? Keeping a kitchen clean and up to code is a vital part of running any type of food service business. One important component that should not be forgotten as part of this cleaning process is your hood.
So what’s involved in ensuring that your kitchen range hood remains clean and safe? Read on to find out about the basic steps of how to clean commercial kitchen hood!
Cleaning a commercial kitchen hood is an essential task for proper maintenance of the cooking equipment and grease trap. Having a clean commercial kitchen hood not only improves efficiency, but it also prevents potential fire hazards that can arise when greasy build-up accumulates on the inside walls of your exhaust system.
Additionally, staying up to code with your local requirements can help avoid penalties or fines from regulatory agencies. Here, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to effectively clean your commercial kitchen hood safely and efficiently.
Why is It Important to Clean Commercial Kitchen Hood?
1. To Make It Long Lasting
One of the most important reasons why it is important to clean a commercial kitchen hood is that it can help make the appliance long-lasting. Grease and dirt buildup on the surface of the hood can cause wear and tear over time, leading to damage that could reduce its lifespan. Regular cleaning ensures that this doesn’t happen and prevents costly repairs down the line.
2. To Ensure Safety
Having a clean and well-functioning hood is not just important for the longevity of the appliance but also for safety. Grease particles can easily ignite when exposed to high temperatures, so it is essential that they are regularly removed from inside the hood. Additionally, it helps ensure that air quality remains safe and healthy for employees and customers.
3. To Meet Regulatory Requirements
In some areas, commercial restaurants are required to keep their hoods properly cleaned according to local health codes. Not only does this help maintain fire safety standards but it also helps ensure that the restaurant is providing a clean and sanitary environment for its patrons.
These are just a few reasons why commercial kitchen hoods need regular cleaning and maintenance – but they are important ones. Cleaning and caring for your hood regularly can help ensure the safety of your establishment as well as its longevity and performance!
10 Ideas On How to Clean Commercial Kitchen Hood
1. Use a Degreaser to Remove Dirt and Grease
One of the best ways to clean a commercial kitchen hood is by using a degreaser. Degreasers are specially formulated cleaning agents that act on grease and oil, making it easier to remove these substances from the hood. When using a degreaser, make sure to use an appropriate cleaner according to the type of surface being cleaned and follow all safety instructions provided.
2. Vacuum the Exhaust Fans and Filters
Another important step in cleaning a commercial kitchen hood is to vacuum the exhaust fans, filters, and other components of the hood. This will help remove all dust and debris that has been collected over time, which can otherwise harbor bacteria or cause blockages in the air flow of the hood.
3. Clean the Grease Traps
While decreasing is important, it may not completely remove all of the grease and oil that has accumulated on the kitchen hood over time. To ensure thorough cleaning, it’s also necessary to clean out the grease traps located beneath the hood. This can be done using a special degreaser specifically designed for this task, or by using a shop vacuum.
4. Wipe Down the Perimeter of the Hood
Once all of the grease and dirt has been removed from the hood, it’s important to wipe down the entire perimeter of the hood with a damp cloth to ensure that all surfaces are clean and free from dirt and grime. Make sure to use a non-abrasive cleaner, as abrasives can scratch the surface of the hood and permanently damage it.
Another important step in cleaning a commercial kitchen hood is to eliminate any odors that may be present within the area. This can be done by using a special cleaner formulated for this purpose or even baking soda and vinegar.
5. Use an Appropriate Cleaner to Eliminate Odors
6. Clean the Inside of the Hood
Most commercial kitchen hoods are equipped with removable panels that allow access to the interior of the hood. It is important to clean these areas on a regular basis in order to remove any grease and bacteria that may have accumulated inside.
7. Inspect the Fire Suppression System
Regular inspection and maintenance of the fire suppression system within a commercial kitchen is critical to ensure the safety of everyone involved in food preparation. Make sure to inspect all components of this system on a regular basis, paying close attention to hoses, nozzles, and other connections for signs of wear or damage.
8. Clean the Exhaust Ducts
Grease and other debris can easily accumulate in kitchen exhaust ducts, which can lead to fire hazards as well as health-related concerns. To avoid this, it is important to clean out exhaust ducts on a regular basis using an appropriate cleaning agent.
9. Check for Proper Ventilation
Finally, make sure to check that the ventilation of the kitchen hood is working properly. This can be done by visually inspecting the vents and ensuring they are not blocked by debris or other items. Additionally, any filters present should also be inspected and replaced if necessary.
10. Schedule Regular Cleanings
Regular cleanings of the commercial kitchen hood are essential for maintaining a safe and healthy working environment. Scheduling regular cleanings with a certified professional will help ensure that your kitchen hood is kept in top condition at all times.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your commercial kitchen hood is as clean and efficient as possible. Cleaning regularly will also help to reduce the risk of grease fires and other hazards that can occur in a commercial kitchen.
With proper maintenance, your kitchen hood will be able to provide years of reliable service.
Frequently Asked Question
What Precautions Should I Take When Cleaning a Commercial Kitchen Hood?
When cleaning a commercial kitchen hood, it is important to take the proper safety precautions. Wear appropriate protective clothing such as long sleeves, gloves, and goggles to protect yourself from any chemicals or debris.
Be sure to turn off the power before beginning your cleaning process and do not climb onto the hood while cleaning it. Additionally, notify employees and other people in the area that you are cleaning the hood so they can remain alert and out of harm’s way.
How Often Should a Commercial Kitchen Hood be Cleaned?
Commercial kitchen hoods should generally be cleaned at least once a month, but depending on how heavily your kitchen is used, it may need to be cleaned more frequently. A good rule of thumb is to check the hood filters and grease trays weekly and give the entire hood an in-depth cleaning every month or two.
What Kind of Cleaning Products Should I Use?
When cleaning a commercial kitchen hood, you should use professional-grade degreasers and cleaners specifically formulated for kitchen exhaust systems.
Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could potentially cause damage to the hood’s finish. Additionally, use lint-free cloths such as microfiber to avoid leaving behind any lint or debris.
What Steps Should I Follow When Cleaning a Commercial Kitchen Hood?
When cleaning a commercial kitchen hood, there are a few basic steps you should follow. First, remove and clean the filters and grease trays. Next, use a degreaser to scrub down the entire surface of the hood and its components. Finally, use lint-free cloths and warm water to thoroughly wipe down all surfaces. Once the hood is clean, replace the filters and grease trays and turn the power back on.
How Much Does it Cost to Have a Commercial Kitchen Hood Professionally Cleaned?
The cost of having a commercial kitchen hood professionally cleaned will vary depending on the size and complexity of the system. Generally, you can expect to pay between $150 and $400 for the job. It is always best to have your hood professionally cleaned, as it ensures that the job is done right and that you are adhering to proper safety guidelines.
Conclusion
Cleaning commercial kitchen hoods is essential to ensure the safety of your cooking environment. The ease of cleaning and periodic maintenance will help protect against the build-up of grease and smoke which can cause fire hazards. Not only does this provide for a better working environment, it also keeps employees safe from potential burns or other injuries.
By following these simple tips on how to clean commercial kitchen hood, you can have peace of mind that your commercial kitchen is running at its best capacity with all applicable safety protocols followed.
It’s important to be aware of the dangers associated with an unclean kitchen so we urge you to keep track of regular maintenance schedules and always remember to use the right scrubbing tools when cleaning the hood!