Kitchen Hood and Filter Maintenance

Regular maintenance of commercial kitchen hoods and filter systems isn’t just about keeping the kitchen looking good; it’s also about safety, efficiency and maintaining the quality of the food. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to service these critical components of a commercial kitchen.

1. Assess the hood. Look for signs of excessive grease buildup and any damage that may need to be repaired.

2. Remove and soak the filters. They will likely be greasy and require a good soak in a degreasing solution to break down the oil and grease.

3. Degrease the filters. While the filters are soaking, use this time to apply the degreaser more liberally if needed. Make sure every inch is covered to allow for the most effective cleaning.

4. Clean and polish the hood. Depending on your preference, you can use a water-based polish or an oil-based polish to give it a clean, shiny look.

5. Remove and clean the drip pans. There are usually two drip pans that should be removed. Clean them thoroughly to remove any solidified grease and set them aside to dry.

6. Replace filters and drip pans. Once the filters are degreased and dried, replace them in the hood. Make sure they’re securely fitted and then return the clean, dry drip pans.

Routine maintenance should be done as required based on the usage of the kitchen. However, don’t forget that the entire flue system should be professionally serviced every three to six months.