Maintenance and replacement of professional hood baffle filters

In the restaurant business, the kitchen is the lifeblood of the business. And to maintain an optimal level of quality and hygiene, most establishments are equipped with hood systems designed to evacuate grease particles generated during cooking.

The crucial role of professional hood baffle filters

Baffle filters play an indispensable role in professional kitchens. They are designed to capture grease and fine particles, for a clean and safe working environment. By filtering the air, hood filters prevent fire risks linked to grease accumulation in ventilation ducts and maintain air quality at an optimal level.

Professional hood baffle filter maintenance: regularity is key!

Regular maintenance is crucial for the proper functioning of your hood. Experts recommend cleaning filters at least once a month using degreasing solutions designed for this purpose. We also suggest regularly inspecting the condition of the filters to determine the ideal time to replace them.

How do you know if it’s time to clean your filters? Warning signs include: visible grease buildup, decreased ventilation efficiency, and persistent odors.

Other signs that your baffle filter needs maintenance:

• The noise from the hood increases: a clogged filter forces the motor.
• Air flow decreases: a blocked air passage reduces ventilation efficiency.
• Smoke accumulates in the kitchen: the filter is saturated and ineffective.
• Oil or grease on surfaces: The filter does not capture grease well.
• Persistent odors: the filter is saturated with grease.
• Deformations and holes: these are signs of filter deterioration.

When should the baffle filter of a professional hood be replaced?

It should be kept in mind that the best time to clean or replace a mesh filter depends on several factors, including the intensity of use of the kitchen and the type of cooking done.

But if you clean your filter diligently, and it remains poorly performing after cleaning or it is damaged, do not take any risks and replace it immediately.

How often should you clean your hood filters?

Regular cleaning of filters extends their lifespan. When it comes to inspecting and cleaning commercial range hoods , they must follow a schedule set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) , as well as fire standards specific to your region or municipality.

As for the frequency of cleaning a commercial hood, it also varies depending on the type of cooking: monthly for solid fuel cooking, quarterly for high-volume operations, semi-annual for moderate volume and annually for low volume. As a general rule, cleaning every 6 months (depending on the type of kitchen and insurer requirements) is recommended.

Why contact a professional to clean your hood filters?

Professional cleaning becomes necessary when the filters are contaminated with grease. Excessive grease accumulation impairs hood performance, safety and increases the risk of fire. In such cases, it is necessary to hire a certified company that complies with NFPA 96 standards and local regulations for servicing hoods.

Need advice on maintaining your filters?

Benefit now from a healthy and safe work environment for you and your customers. Request the services of a qualified and certified company for cleaning your professional hood mesh filters. Contact the experts at Antiflamme Purafiltre to get a free quote!