Commercial Kitchen Canopy Extraction Hoods: A Guide to Understanding and Choosing the Right One

What are commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods?
A commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood is an essential component of a commercial kitchen exhaust system. It's installed above the cooking surface to capture and remove airborne contaminants such as smoke, heat, grease, and steam. It ensures that the indoor air quality in the kitchen is safe and healthy for staff and customers.

What are the different types of commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods?
There are different types of commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods to choose from, depending on your kitchen's size, layout, and ventilation needs. Some common types include:

Wall-mounted hoods - Wall-mounted hoods are installed against the wall and extend over the cooking equipment. They're suitable for kitchens that have cooking equipment located against a wall.

Island hoods - Island hoods are suspended from the ceiling and installed over cooking equipment located in the centre of the kitchen. They're ideal for larger kitchens with cooking equipment arranged in a central island.

Condensate hoods - Condensate hoods are equipped with a refrigeration system that captures and removes moisture from the exhaust air, reducing the need for costly makeup air systems. They're ideal for kitchens with high humidity levels.

How do commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods work?
Commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods work by capturing and removing airborne contaminants from the kitchen. The hood's design allows it to create a negative pressure zone, which pulls air and contaminants towards it. The contaminated air is then directed through a series of filters, which trap the contaminants and remove them from the air. Finally, the clean air is discharged outside the building.

What are the Benefits of commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods?
Installing a commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood has several benefits, including:

Compliance with local regulations Many local and state regulations require commercial kitchens to have an exhaust system that includes a canopy extraction hood.

Improved indoor air quality - A canopy extraction hood ensures that the air in the kitchen is free from contaminants, which creates a safe and healthy environment for staff and customers.

Reduced fire risk - The hood's design helps prevent the buildup of grease and other flammable substances, reducing the risk of fire in the kitchen.

Improved kitchen efficiency - By removing heat, smoke, and other contaminants from the kitchen, a canopy extraction hood helps maintain a comfortable working environment for staff, improving their productivity and efficiency.

Choosing the right commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood
Choosing the right commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood depends on several factors, including:

Kitchen size and layout
The hood's size and type should match your kitchen's size and layout to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Cooking equipment
The hood's size and type should be compatible with your cooking equipment to ensure proper capture and removal of airborne contaminants.

Ventilation requirements
The hood's CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating should match your kitchen's ventilation requirements to ensure effective air capture and removal.

Hood material
The hood's material should be durable and easy to clean to prevent the buildup of grease and other contaminants.

Noise level
The hood's noise level should be taken into consideration, especially if the kitchen is located near dining areas or customer spaces.

Cost
The cost of the hood should also be taken into consideration, along with installation and maintenance costs.

Installation and maintenance of commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods
Proper installation and maintenance of commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods are essential to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips:

Proper installation - The hood should be installed by a licensed and experienced professional to ensure that it's installed correctly and meets local regulations.

Regular cleaning and maintenance - The hood should be regularly cleaned and maintained to prevent the buildup of grease and other contaminants, which can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of fire.

Filter replacement - The hood's filters should be regularly replaced to ensure maximum effectiveness and airflow.

Conclusion
A commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood is a critical component of a commercial kitchen exhaust system. It ensures that the indoor air quality in the kitchen is safe and healthy for staff and customers, reduces the risk of fire, and improves kitchen efficiency. Choosing the right hood, installing it properly, and maintaining it regularly are essential for maximum effectiveness and longevity.

FAQs
How often should commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods be cleaned and maintained?
Commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods should be cleaned and maintained at least once every six months, or more frequently depending on usage and local regulations.

Can a commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood be installed by a DIYer?
No, a commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood should be installed by a licensed and experienced professional to ensure that it meets local regulations and is installed correctly.

Are there any energy-efficient options for commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods?
Yes, there are energy-efficient options for commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods, such as condensate hoods, that can help reduce energy costs.

What are the consequences of not having a commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood?
Not having a commercial kitchen canopy extraction hood can result in poor indoor air quality, increased fire risk, and potential fines or legal issues for non-compliance with local regulations.

Can commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods be customised to fit specific kitchen needs?
Yes, commercial kitchen canopy extraction hoods can be customised to fit specific kitchen needs, including size, layout, ventilation requirements, and material.