Kitchen hood cleaning refers to the removal of grease and other flammable compounds that accumulate on the interior surfaces of cooking equipment. Cleaner hoods also prevent food contamination from reaching consumers. Aside from preventing kitchen fires, regular cleaning can also prolong the life of your hood’s fan motor.
The National Fire Protection Association has established a standard for regulating kitchen hoods and ventilation systems. This standard, NFPA 96, clearly states that commercial kitchens must be cleaned on a regular basis. However, the number of times per year that a hood or ventilation system needs to be cleaned depends on several factors. For example, the volume of vapors drawn through the hood plenum is a key factor in determining the frequency of cleaning. Fortunately, many jurisdictions have adopted NFPA 96.
When a hood cleaner performs a job, he/she identifies the areas where flammable residues may be found and removes them. He/she also cleans and disinfects all kitchen equipment and vents, including ovens and ranges. These responsibilities require professional, safe, and effective cleaning methods. Moreover, it is important to ensure that your hood’s exhaust systems are clean, as well.
To start the cleaning process, a hood cleaning company will need access to your roof or wall mount fan. They will also need to use a car and have a valid driver’s license. Additionally, a hood cleaning service may require a criminal background check. Depending on the company, some of these jobs may require drug screenings.
Hood cleaning services are usually performed by professionals who are highly trained to handle a variety of jobs. Their tasks include cleaning the hood, the fan, and the floor. They also polish the hood to restore its appearance and cleanliness. Besides, they are required to apply a certification sticker on the hood canopy, which shows when and where the hood was cleaned. In addition, the hood will be stamped with a proof-of-performance decal, which is visible to fire marshals.
Hood cleaners use hot water pressure washing to remove the excess build-up of grease and other flammable materials. They also apply a cleaning sticker on the hood and provide a report for the fire department. Most of the time, these cleaning companies will use non-toxic, environmentally friendly chemicals. Some cleaning providers use caustic chemicals to break down the grease.
During the cleaning process, the hood cleaners will disassemble the vent hood. They will check the vent hood for signs of damage, such as cracks or holes. Often, it’s easy to tell that Hood Cleaning a hood is dirty, but it’s difficult to know what’s inside. They will then rinse the hood with hot water, while removing any chemicals left over.
Hood cleaning is an essential part of a safe and functional kitchen. It can prevent the spread of germs, reduce fire risks, and improve air quality. Cleaning should be performed at least once a month for wood burning stoves, and quarterly for other cooking equipment. Whether you’re a restaurant owner, a chef, or a business owner, it’s vital to have your hood and other kitchen equipment cleaned regularly.