Range hoods are essential to a clean, safe kitchen environment, and maintaining them is crucial - learn how with this step-by-step guide from Hoodmart!

Sure, running a commercial kitchen can sometimes feel like an endless cycle of tasks and chores, but one of the most important is keeping your range hood clean. A dirty range hood can be a fire hazard, create unpleasant odors, and land you afoul of health codes and labor laws. For example, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets forth guidance for restaurant owners regarding range and hood cleaning schedules to ensure worker safety - keeping your range hood and ventilation system clean is that important! So, in this article, we'll walk you through when and how to clean your commercial range hood to keep it functioning well and looking its best - so you go ahead and cross this chore off your list today!

Determine a Proper Cleaning Schedule

Commercial kitchen vent hood cleaning requirements vary depending on the state and local health codes. However, there are some general guidelines that apply to most commercial kitchens. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Frequency: Most health codes require that vent hoods be cleaned at least once every six months, but some areas may require more frequent cleaning, such as every three months.

Check your local health code regulations to find out how often your vent hood should be cleaned.

Certified cleaners: In many areas, vent hood cleaning must be performed by accredited professionals who have completed a training program and have been certified by the appropriate authorities. Be sure to check the qualifications of any vent hood cleaning company before hiring them.

Record keeping: Health codes may require that commercial kitchens keep records of when their vent hoods were cleaned, who cleaned them, and what cleaning methods were used. Be sure to keep accurate records to stay in compliance with regulations.

Cleaning Day

So how do you keep your range hood clean and functioning its best between scheduled cleanings by certified professionals? It’s easy! First, you’ll want to gather your supplies beforehand to ensure the process is as efficient and effective as possible. Our list of recommended supplies includes the following:

• Rubber gloves
• Safety glasses
• Degreaser
• Cleaning brush
• Scraper
• Bucket
• Clean cloth

All set? Great! Let’s walk through the next steps one at a time:

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Before you start cleaning your range hood, turn off the power to your cooking equipment. This will prevent accidents from occurring while you're cleaning. You may need to turn off the circuit breaker or unplug the range hood from the wall.

Step 2: Remove the Filters from Your System

Next, remove the filters from your range hood. Depending on the design, you may need to unscrew the filters or slide them out. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions. Once the filters are removed, inspect them for damage or buildup of grease and debris.

Step 3: Soak Dirty Filters

After removing the filters, fill a bucket with hot water and add a degreaser according to the instructions on the bottle. Place the filters in the bucket and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. If you have a lot of buildup on your filters, let them soak for longer. While the filters are soaking, you can start cleaning the hood itself.

Step 4: Scrub the Filters

After the filters have soaked, use a cleaning brush to scrub away any grease or grime that has accumulated on them. You can also use a scraper for any stubborn debris that is hard to remove with just the brush (an old spoon can make an excellent scraper - and you’re sure to have one in arm’s reach!). Be sure to rinse the filters thoroughly with hot water once you've finished scrubbing them. Allow the filters to dry completely before re-installing them in your range hood.

Step 5: Clean the Hood Itself

Scrub inside of your range hood using a degreaser and cleaning brush. Pay special attention to areas where grease may have built up, such as around the fan and vent. Use a scraper for stubborn debris that is difficult to remove with the brush alone. Be careful when scrubbing the hood.

Step 6: Wipe Everything Down

Once you've finished scrubbing your range hood, wipe it down with a clean cloth. This will remove any remaining debris and leave your hood looking shiny and new. Make sure to also wipe down the outside of the hood to remove any grease or dirt that may have accumulated there.

Step 7: Reinstall Filters

After your filters have dried completely, re-install them back into your range hood. Ensure they are securely in place before turning your cooking equipment back on. You can now turn the power back on to your range hood and test it to ensure everything functions properly.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your commercial range hood is a necessary chore that should not be neglected. Following these simple steps, you can keep your range hood functioning at its best and ensure a clean and safe kitchen environment. By keeping your range hood clean, you'll also extend its lifespan, reduce the risk of fires, and keep your kitchen operating at its best.

For more tips and advice to keep your range equipment functioning at its best, visit our blog or contact the pros at Hoodmart today by calling: 1-800-715-1014!