Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Why is cleaning the entire system important?

Answer: Hoods and fire protection systems have the most legal requirements of any equipment in the kitchen. Typically, the health department is concerned about sanitation, the fire and building departments are worried about fire hazards, and an environmental agency is often worried about the smoke emissions pouring from the ducts. Most cooking facility fires originate in the cooking area, which can quickly spread into the exhaust system, and onto the roof. Keeping a grease-free and fire safe system can protect you from this hazard.

Q: What part of the exhaust system do you clean?

Answer: We take care of what you see in the kitchen, but most importantly what you do not see from the roof down. We clean the entire system starting from the exhaust fan and blade, duct work from top to down the duct work into the hood plenum, and horizontal duct work areas cleaning the system to NFPA 96 standards. Lastly we clean the fire suppression linkage, plenum grease cups, gutters and polish the outside hood . The entire kitchen exhaust system is cleaned using several techniques: by steam cleaning, power washing, spin jets, manual scrapping and chemical application.

Q: How often should I have my exhaust system cleaned?

Answer: We suggest if you have a high-volume operation that you have your exhaust system cleaned monthly to quarterly. Moderately used systems should be cleaned quarterly to every six months. Low-volume systems should be cleaned every six months or annually, based on use.

Q: Does my kitchen need to be closed at time of service?

Answer: Yes, any equipment under your hood will need to be turned off and cooled down. Pilot lights will be turned off and re-light upon our departure.

Q: My restaurant is open many hours, do i need to shut down the kitchen for cleaning of my exhaust system?

Answer: No problem; we will work with your schedule to ensure it doesn't affect your business. We have day and night shift crews to be ready to service your location.

Q: Why would I want to sign up for your scheduled maintenance plan?

Answer: Grease buildup is a significant cause of restaurant fires. Being on a regularly scheduled maintenance plan helps you never to worry about the exhaust system bing dirty. Secondly, we can schedule more efficiently and pass the savings along to you when we can plan ahead of time.

Q: Why does my exhaust fan need Hinge Kit ?

Answer: A fan Hinge is required by NFPA 96 to ensure that the fan can be lifted and tipped securely for proper cleaning of the fan blades and the ductwork underneath. Hinge kits are required for all up-blast fans and significantly reduce the deterioration to fan motors, housing, electrical wiring, and rooftops during the cleaning process.