Services

Shown here is a diagram of a representative kitchen exhaust system. The exact design and layout will vary somewhat, but this will give you a general idea of the purpose of each part. An explanation of the function of each item, starting at the hood and going upward, is given below the image.

HOOD: Acts as a funnel-style collector to pull the fumes, hot air and airborne grease created in the cooking process up into the duct system above. The Exhaust Fan (see below) creates the suction that enables this process.

GREASE FILTERS: Catch up to 80% of the grease collected by the hood.

FUSIBLE LINKS: Activate a Fire Prevention System if the duct temperature exceeds a certain safe value.

EXHAUST DUCT: Carries the hot air and any remaining grease or cooking byproducts up and to the outside of the building.

EXHAUST FAN: Creates the pulling power that enables the system to remove the cooking byproducts from the kitchen.

DRIP CUP: Collects remaining grease that makes it on up through the filters and fan.

DIVERTER: Directs the exhaust upward to minimize the amount of grease that would be blown onto the building roof.

FIRE PREVENTION/EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM: Includes the Fusible Links, piping, chemical and nozzles, Manual Pull Station, and Portable Fire Extinguisher. The automatic components trigger if duct temperatures get too high or a grease fire starts.

MAKE-UP AIR DEVICE: Source of conditioned air to replace the amount that’s heated by cooking, appliances, and people, and which is pulled out of the kitchen by the exhaust system. Could be the building Heating/Ventilating/Air Conditioning system or an integrated blower.

If you study the diagram, it should be evident that getting the entire exhaust system cleaned regularly and keeping it well-maintained is critical not only for the safety and comfort of your employees and customers, but also to prevent potentially serious damage to the building. County building, fire, and safety codes have gotten stricter in the last ten years, and commercial kitchen owners are responsible to see that the kitchen exhaust and fire protection systems are kept in good condition. The staff of Hoods Unlimited has the training and incentive to assure you that the state of your system will satisfy fire, safety and health regulations, and will be a source of pride and peace of mind. Give us a call at (770) 345-1897 or 1-888-834-4362, or use the Contact Us link at the top of the page to schedule prompt and courteous service!