Commercial Hood Cleaning Services

Exhaust Hood Cleaning Services

We provide commercial exhaust hood cleaning for facilities throughout St. Louis. Our cleaning process generally involves the following:

1. Inspection: The cleaning team begins by inspecting the hood and exhaust system to assess its condition and determine the level of cleaning required. They check for any visible grease, oil, or other contaminants buildup.
2. Preparation: Before cleaning, the team takes necessary precautions to protect surrounding areas, equipment, and surfaces. They may cover appliances, countertops, and floors to prevent any damage or mess during the cleaning.
3. Degreasing: The cleaning process usually involves applying a powerful degreasing agent to the hood, filters, ductwork, and exhaust fans. This degreaser helps break down and loosen the accumulated grease and grime, making it easier to remove.
4. Scraping: Using specialized tools, the cleaning technicians remove the loosened grease and debris from the hood’s interior surfaces, including the hood canopy, filters, and accessible ductwork. This step is crucial in removing stubborn buildup and ensuring a thorough clean.
5. Pressure Washing: After scraping, the team uses high-pressure washing equipment to clean the hood and ductwork thoroughly. This process helps to flush out remaining grease, dirt, and contaminants, leaving the surfaces clean and free from residue.
6. Filter Cleaning or Replacement: The hood filters are typically cleaned or replaced as part of the cleaning service. Depending on the type of filters (mesh, baffle, or charcoal), they may be soaked in a degreaser solution, pressure washed, or replaced with new filters if necessary.
7. Exhaust Fan Cleaning: The cleaning team also addresses the exhaust fans to ensure proper airflow and efficiency. They remove any dirt, grease, or debris that may have accumulated on the fan blades or inside the fan housing.
8. Final Inspection: Once the cleaning process is complete, a final inspection is conducted to ensure that all areas have been thoroughly cleaned and no traces of grease or contaminants remain. Any missed spots are promptly addressed.
9. Documentation: A professional hood cleaning company often provides a detailed report or certificate of completion, which can be helpful for insurance purposes and to demonstrate compliance with local fire codes and health regulations.

It’s important to note that the exact cleaning process may vary slightly depending on the kitchen’s specific requirements. However, the abovementioned steps are generally followed to ensure a comprehensive and effective hood cleaning service.

Why Hood Cleaning is Important

Hood cleaning is of paramount importance for several reasons:

• Fire Safety: The primary reason for hood cleaning is to reduce the risk of fires in commercial kitchens. Grease and oil buildup inside the exhaust system, including the hood, filters, and ductwork, can become highly flammable. If a fire ignites in the kitchen, the buildup of grease can cause it to spread rapidly and become difficult to control. Regular hood cleaning removes these combustible materials, significantly reducing the chance of a fire starting and minimizing the potential for fire-related damage.
• Compliance with Fire Codes and Insurance Requirements: Most jurisdictions have specific fire codes and regulations that mandate regular hood cleaning for commercial kitchens. Compliance with these codes is essential to ensure your establishment’s and its occupants’ safety. Additionally, many insurance providers require proof of regular hood cleaning as a condition of coverage. Failure to comply with fire codes or insurance requirements can result in penalties, invalidated insurance claims, or even business closure.
• Air Quality and Health: A properly functioning hood and exhaust system help maintain good indoor air quality in the kitchen environment. Cooking produces smoke, steam, and airborne particles containing harmful contaminants. An uncleaned hood with clogged filters and ducts cannot effectively remove these pollutants, leading to poor air circulation and potentially hazardous conditions for kitchen staff and customers. Regular hood cleaning ensures that the exhaust system functions optimally, removing smoke, odors, and pollutants from the air and creating a healthier work environment.
• Equipment Performance and Energy Efficiency: Grease buildup in the hood and ductwork can obstruct airflow, causing the exhaust system to work harder to remove smoke and heat. This can lead to decreased efficiency and increased energy consumption of kitchen appliances, including exhaust fans and HVAC systems. By keeping the hood and exhaust system clean, you can maximize the performance of your equipment, reduce energy costs, and extend the lifespan of your appliances.
• Preventive Maintenance: Regular hood cleaning is a form of preventative maintenance. It allows for the early detection of any issues or damage in the exhaust system, such as worn-out belts, loose connections, or mechanical problems. Identifying and addressing these problems promptly can prevent costly repairs or replacements and help ensure your kitchen operates smoothly and efficiently.

By investing in professional hood cleaning services, you prioritize the safety of your establishment, protect your assets, and provide a healthier environment for your staff and customers.

Why Choose Gateway Cleaning Services

At Gateway Cleaning Services, our professional hood cleaning team is dedicated to meeting all your expectations. Our experience allows us to clean and sanitize your facility efficiently every time. When you choose to hire our cleaning services, you can expect the following:

• Flexibility – We can easily accommodate and work around your schedule. We also offer competitive pricing to accommodate your budget.
• Experience – With over 25 years of experience, you can be confident that you’re hiring a team of skilled cleaners to properly clean and sanitize your property.
• Security – We will pay close attention to your security concerns and follow a strict protocol to give you peace of mind when cleaning your establishment.
• Reliability – We will show up on time and deliver a professional job every time. We will arrive with the necessary equipment so you won’t incur additional expenses.

Contact us today to schedule a free estimate!