KITCHEN EXTRACTS

Risk Factors

Deposits of fat, grease and cooking oils enter the body of the ductwork as vaporised cooking oil and condenses in the cooler part of the system. Accumulation of grease and cooking oils develop presenting a significant fire risk (as shown by the spectacular Heathrow fire) as well as poor performance, odour, hygiene and vermin problems. In severe cases oil can leak from the ducting. Deposits may result in fans being out of balance reducing the efficiency of the system.

Cleaning Schedules

Cooker hoods and grease filters should be cleaned daily, wiping and washing respectively.

In line with the Loss Prevention Council advice (16A & 16B), it is recommended that kitchen extract ductwork should be cleaned annually as a minimum.

The exact frequency for the specialist cleaning of the ductwork will depend on the level of usage of the cooking equipment. The HVCA standard DW/17 recommends cleaning intervals as follows:

Heavy usage	12-16 hrs per day	3 monthly
Moderate usage	6-12 hrs per day	6 monthly
Light usage	2-6 hrs per day	annually

Regular cleaning will prevent a build up of flammable deposits, greatly reducing the fire risk.

A clean system is also more efficient and less likely to attract pests and vermin.

3 Grooms Court, Parbrook, BILLINGSHURST, West Sussex, RH14 9EU
Tel : 01403 784211 Fax: 01403 784847