How Often Should You Clean the Kitchen Extract System

Many people don’t realise this but having a clean kitchen isn’t just about having clean utensils, clean ovens, and clean counters. There is a lot more that goes into kitchen hygiene than just these three things.

One of the things that are very important for maintaining good hygiene in the kitchen is the cleanliness of the ventilation system.

Regular cleaning of the kitchen extract system is necessary but one might ask the question; how frequently should those cleaning sessions happen?
Should you clean the extract once a day, once a week or after several months? Well, this guide will help you answer that question.

Why Should You Keep Your Kitchen Extract System Clean?

Keeping your kitchen extract system clean and well-maintained is crucial for ensuring proper ventilation, preventing fire hazards, and maintaining a fresh and odour-free cooking environment.

While the frequency of cleaning may vary depending on the usage and type of cooking, regular maintenance is essential to prolong the lifespan of your extract system and maintain its efficiency.

Cleaning the extract system regularly can ensure that you maintain good kitchen hygiene.

How Frequently Should You Clean The Kitchen Extract System?

The frequency at which you should clean your kitchen extract system depends primarily on the intensity of its usage.

A well-maintained extract system is essential for ensuring efficient ventilation, reducing fire risks, and maintaining a fresh and odour-free cooking environment. Neglecting regular cleaning can lead to the accumulation of grease, grime, and other contaminants, compromising the system’s performance and posing potential health hazards.
For kitchens with heavy use, defined as operating between 12 to 16 hours per day, it is recommended to clean the extract system every three months.

This frequent cleaning schedule is necessary due to the substantial amount of cooking fumes, grease, and smoke generated during extended operating hours. Regular maintenance will prevent excessive buildup and ensure optimal airflow and ventilation.

In the case of moderate use, which typically ranges from 6 to 12 hours of operation per day, the extract system should be cleaned every six months.

This schedule strikes a balance between maintaining cleanliness and avoiding unnecessary downtime or disruptions to your kitchen operations.

For kitchens with light use, defined as operating between 2 to 6 hours per day, an annual cleaning schedule is generally sufficient.

However, it is important to monitor the system’s condition and adjust the cleaning frequency accordingly, especially if you notice signs of grease accumulation or reduced airflow.

Are There Any Kitchen Extract Systems That Need To Be Cleaned More

There are certain kitchen extract systems that may require more frequent cleaning than the general guidelines mentioned earlier.

Certain cooking processes can accelerate the buildup of grease, smoke, and other contaminants within the extract system, necessitating a more rigorous cleaning schedule.

Kitchens that involve fat frying or the use of wood or charcoal for cooking are prime examples of environments where the extraction system may need to be cleaned more frequently.

These cooking methods tend to generate significantly higher amounts of grease, smoke, and particulate matter, which can rapidly accumulate within the ductwork and filters of the extract system.

In such cases, it is recommended to clean extraction hoods and filters on a daily basis or, at the very least, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Failing to do so can lead to a rapid buildup of grease and other contaminants, potentially posing fire hazards and compromising the system’s effectiveness.

Extract systems in commercial kitchens that operate for extended hours or handle high volumes of food preparation may also require more frequent cleaning, even if they do not involve fat frying or wood/charcoal burning.

The increased cooking activity and subsequent buildup of grease and smoke can warrant a more aggressive cleaning schedule.

Professional cleaning services with expertise in kitchen extract systems can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your specific kitchen setup and operating conditions.

Final words

If you are unsure of your cleaning schedule or need any further information, please contact our professionals on – 02037577150