Extraction problems usually develop slowly and may be discovered by unexpected problems in the kitchen before they become serious problems.
Blocked Grease Filters
Clogged grease filters cause a great deal of resistance to airflow. So if your canopy is suddenly feeling a bit slow then it is probably worth checking your filters. Most filters will benefit from a regular wash – weekly in a busy kitchen.
Fan Motor Noise or Vibration
Grinding or rattling sounds from your extraction fan are normally a sign of worn bearings within the fan motor. In most cases these motors can seize completely before a service callout can be made. Early detection and service can prevent complete failure.
Grease Pooling in Ductwork
The presence of grease in the ductwork extraction system of Commercial Kitchen Extraction equipment indicates that the ductwork has not been cleaned recently. This can be due to the insufficient slope for grease to drain to a trap point, or the equipment not being cleaned frequently enough. Grease in the ductwork is a direct fire risk, which is why Commercial Kitchen Extraction systems need to be regularly cleaned by a professional, on a documented schedule.
Make-Up Air Imbalance
Reversing Smoke to the Outside Using Make-Up Air. Getting fresh air to extract in a Kitchen using Make-Up Air can be easier than you think and does not have to cost the earth!
Hood Positioned Incorrectly
The exhaust hood must be positioned so it is over the cooking area and overhangs the edges of the appliances. A typical offset would be 150mm and the hood should be no higher than 2m above the cooking surfaces.
Missing or Faulty Grease Traps
Grease Traps are an important component of the commercial kitchen extraction system. Absence of or blockage of Grease Traps can allow fat to enter the drainage system and pose a fire risk within the duct of the kitchen extraction system. Furthermore, the employer of the kitchen has responsibilities in relation to the adequate ventilation of the kitchen and these are outlined in the ventilation and health requirements for catering workplaces.
For Commercial Kitchen Extraction, see /www.targetcatering.co.uk/kitchen-extraction/commercial-kitchen-extraction.
Identifying early signs of faults in commercial extraction systems will prevent harm and assist in maintaining equipment to operate optimally in kitchens.
