Hood Cleaning FAQ: You Asked, We Answered

Think UV hood cleaning at your Las Vegas restaurant is something you can put off? Think again! We at Western Commercial Services want to emphasize the importance of hood cleaning in terms of fire safety. Kitchen grease fires are a huge safety hazard that can result in serious injury, death and hundreds if not thousands of dollars’ worth of property damage. Read on to get the facts so that you can keep your kitchen and staff safe.

FAQ #1: Must I Get My Hoods Cleaned?

The answer is a resounding yes, from both a safety and a legal standpoint. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Code 96 requires all commercial cooking establishments to have their entire exhaust systems cleaned regularly, usually on a quarterly basis. A grease-free kitchen is a safe kitchen, as most restaurant fires start in this area.

FAQ #2: Can My Kitchen Staff Clean My Hoods For Me?

No. Code 96 specifically states that exhaust systems must be cleaned by qualified individuals, as this type of work requires special tools and equipment, as well as the experience to get the job done safely and effectively. Restaurant owners must provide  certificates of compliance that include the name of the certified company who cleaned the system, cleaning date, expiration date and location of inaccessible areas, if applicable.

FAQ# 3: Which Areas Require Cleaning?

The NFPA 96 fire code instructs that the entire system must be cleaned “to the bare metal.” Most kitchen exhaust cleaners only clean the hood, however, it’s essential that the rest of the system receive cleaning, including unseen areas. This includes fan bowl and blades, duct system, grease cups, filter tracks, hood filters, light globes and fan belt inspection.

FAQ #4: How Do I Know My System Has Been Properly Cleaned?

Since it is challenging to check every single part of the system, remember that any quality hood cleaning service will provide you with thorough “before and after” pictures.

FAQ #5: How Often Should I Have My System Cleaned?

How frequently you need your system cleaned depends on the type of cooking that goes on and how often. Certain appliances, such as char broilers, generally require monthly cleaning, while hood systems are cleaned on a quarterly basis. A cleaning schedule is usually made up following the initial inspection.

Maintain a restaurant that’s safe for everyone who works and dines there! Contact us today regarding our hood cleaning services in Las Vegas.