Restaurant hood cleaning is an important part of the overall sanitation of commercial kitchens. Grease buildup can create a fire hazard, and regular cleaning can help prevent the spread of contaminated food to consumers.
The National Fire Protection Association Standard 96 states that most commercial hoods and fan systems should be cleaned quarterly. However, facilities that do not have a lot of grease buildup should have their hoods cleaned less frequently.
In addition to cleaning the hood, the crew will also polish the canopy and backsplash. These areas are often overlooked during hood cleaning, but should be polished.
They will also remove the baffle filters from the vent hoods and soak them with a degreaser solution. The filters are then wrapped in plastic to keep them clean.
After the hood is cleaned, the crew will polish it until it shines. A certification sticker is placed on the hood to show that it has been cleaned by a certified professional. This Hood Cleaning decal is visible to fire marshals, insurance agents, and health departments. It is also posted in plain view on the hood canopy.
In addition to removing the grease, the crew will also check for vibrations and a proper working order of the hood fans. If the fans are not functioning properly, they will be replaced. The crew will then install new filters and put a new inspection sticker on the kitchen canopy.
The ductwork of the hood is cleaned as well. Typically, it is stainless steel. It is designed to draw air through the filters and out of the building. Most restaurants have ducts that go through the roof. While these may appear to be clean from the cook’s perspective, a buildup of grease can clog the drains. To prevent this, the hood’s fans should be taken out before they are cleaned.
Hood cleaning is important, as it is the first line of defense against a possible fire. When the hood is not properly maintained, a fire can begin in the ductwork and spread throughout the kitchen. Eventually, a fire can become large and out of control. An uncleaned vent hood can also damage certain parts of the hood.
Many hood cleaning companies use high-powered hot water pressure washing to thoroughly clean the hood and ductwork. The process is repeated until the hood is completely bare metal. Additionally, the crew will use chemical to clean the plenum and ductwork.
The process of hood cleaning is time-consuming and requires excellent organization skills. The job also requires a valid driver’s license and access to a car. Depending on the size of the restaurant and the number of hoods or fans, the process could take three to four hours.
Some hood cleaning jobs require a criminal background check and drug screening. Other responsibilities include following company policies and completing service reports.
Restaurant hood cleaning can be a fun, challenging, and rewarding experience. Whether you own your own restaurant or you’re just looking to get your hood cleaned regularly, the best thing to do is to hire a professional.