If you work in a commercial kitchen and are wondering how to clean range hood filters, you’ve come to the right article. While the task of cleaning range hood filters may often be bypassed, it remains a crucial element in upkeeping a commercial kitchen. Read this resourceful guide to become proficient in cleaning hood filters and learn three invaluable insights to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your kitchen hood filters.
Materials Needed for Hood Filter Cleaning
Here’s a list of materials you’ll need:
- Warm water
- Degreaser solution (or baking soda & vinegar)
- Non-abrasive scrub brush
- Protective gloves
- Soft, dry cloth
Steps to Clean Hood Filters
Let’s delve into the process of cleaning your hood filters.
Step 1: Remove the Hood Filters
Firstly, make sure your kitchen hood or range is switched off and cool to the touch. Most hood filters are easy to remove. They can be detached by sliding them out or by releasing clips or latches.
Step 2: Prepare a Degreaser Solution
Mix a degreaser solution in a basin of warm water. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using commercial degreasers. If you prefer a natural solution, mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar.
Step 3: Soak the Hood Filters
Submerge the hood filters into the degreaser solution. Ensure they are fully covered and allow them to soak for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Scrub the Filters
After soaking, scrub the filters gently using a non-abrasive scrub brush. Pay attention to the heavily soiled areas.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
Rinse the filters thoroughly under warm water to remove any leftover grime and degreaser solution. Shake off excess water and dry with a soft cloth.
Step 6: Reinstall the Filters
Once the filters are completely dry, reinstall them back into the hood. Ensure they are secured properly.
When It’s Time for a Hood Filter Cleaning
Hood filters are vital in keeping your kitchen clean, safe, and efficient. However, like any component that is continuously exposed to smoke, grease, and airborne particles, they will eventually require cleaning. Here’s how to know when it’s time to roll up your sleeves and clean your hood filters.
Decreased Ventilation Performance
If you notice that your hood doesn’t vent as efficiently as before, it could be a sign that your filters are due for cleaning. Clogged filters can hinder airflow, reducing the overall performance of your ventilation system.
Visible Grease Buildup
Over time, hood filters will accumulate a visible buildup of grease and grime. If you can see this buildup, it’s a clear sign that your filters need cleaning. Ignoring this can lead to inefficiencies and potential fire hazards.
Unusual Sounds
Hood filters that are blocked with grease and grime can cause your ventilation system to work harder than necessary. This can sometimes result in unusual sounds, such as humming or rattling, indicating that a filter cleaning is overdue.
Regular Time Interval
As a rule of thumb, hood filters in a home kitchen should be cleaned at least once a month. However, a bi-weekly cleaning may be more appropriate in a commercial kitchen or if you cook heavily at home.
Remember, frequent cleaning can extend the life of your hood filters and improve the overall performance of your ventilation system. Keep an eye out for these signs, and don’t hesitate to clean the filters as necessary to maintain a healthy and efficient kitchen.
3 Hood Cleaning Tips
When it comes to kitchen hood filter cleaning, here are three tips to remember while cleaning the filters.
- Use super hot water (the hotter the water, the easier it will be to clean the filters).
- Have a kitchen hood filter cleaner do the cleaning if you aren’t confident in your ability to do it.
- Have your entire kitchen range hood cleaned regularly, and don’t allow too much grease to build up in your kitchen hood.
When To Call a Professional Hood Cleaning Service
If you are trying to decide whether or not to call in a team of range hood filter cleaners, here are several ways to tell if it’s time to call a hood filter cleaning service.
- You don’t feel confident in your knowledge of how to clean kitchen hood filters yourself.
- You don’t have time for a thorough range hood filter cleaning.
- You keep forgetting to clean your kitchen hood, so your best bet is to schedule a kitchen hood filter cleaner to do it routinely.
- You don’t have the supplies necessary for kitchen hood cleaning.
- You have a commercial kitchen inspection coming up, and so you want your kitchen hood to be extra clean.
Hood Filter Cleaning Service
For exceptional professional services in range hood filter cleaning or assistance with kitchen hood inspections and routine maintenance, contact APEX Hood Cleaning. Our dedicated team of kitchen hood cleaning specialists is committed to helping you uphold the highest standards in your commercial kitchen. We prioritize your commercial kitchen’s safety, functionality, and reliability, ensuring the safety of your employees and maintaining the uncompromised integrity of your workspace. Contact APEX Hood Cleaning today to learn more about our comprehensive suite of commercial kitchen cleaning services.