The cleaning of the cooking exhaust system involves the scraping down and washing of the internal surfaces of the ducts, fan, fan housing and all associated ductwork wherever accessible. The canopies, filter housings and the retaining trays are manually cleaned of all grease, fat, and oil build-up. In certain cases, it may be necessary to cut access openings, which are then sealed with appropriate sealants.
Legal view on Cooking Exhaust Systems
Legislation recognises the fact that the lack of a Cooking Exhaust system is a health hazard and it is therefore law to have cooking exhaust systems installed over commercial ranges, especially fryers. Continual usage leading to build up of grease leaves an imminent fire risk; consequently, regular cleaning must be maintained. Following the requirement to have a cooking exhaust system installed it is also a legislative requirement to have a periodic ‘cleaning and maintenance’ schedule.
Benefits of a Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule
The benefits of cleaning the system on a regular systematic basis:
- Reducing the risk of fire hazards – Prevention of high fat build-up
- Adhering to fire, health and safety guidelines – A legal obligation to promote safety.
- Increased efficiency of the exhaust system – A clogged system requires more energy to run and is inefficient.
- Saving energy whilst running the system – A system, which is extremely clogged would not be able to be draw air sufficiently and would be running for a very little effect.
- Longevity of the system – A clogged system would work harder therefore decreasing its life.
- Cleaner environment – Removal of grease and dirt reduces the growth of bacteria and promotes a cleaner airflow.
- Fresher atmosphere – The removal of odors and fumes leaves the air cleaner to breathe.
- Preservation of fixtures, furniture and fittings – Layers of grease deposits and dirt require physical cleaning, the more the cleaning required the more wear and tear on the system.
- Cost cutting – Cost incurred in cleaning the system on a one-off basis is a long and involved process whereas to clean a system, which has been regularly serviced is a quicker and easier job.
Energy Saving
A system that is not cleaned regularly becomes clogged, and when working it is unsuccessfully attempting to draw air. This simply means the system is working for no good reason. It is not achieving the objective. The system is simply wasting energy being turned on. In addition to this the system is becoming more and more clogged increasing the fire risk. When it finally is cleaned it will require longer man-hours and a harder clean to get it back to an acceptable level. A periodic clean is more economical and makes for a safer environment as there is less time for the deposits to build up. A lighter level of build-up is easier to clean off and requires less time.
The Role of AM Coil (Aust) Pty Ltd
We at AM Coil (Aust) Pty Ltd have been in the business for over 25 years. Our experience and knowledge of the systems involved is extensive and varied. We appreciate the need for a clean system for both economic reasons and the safety aspects. At AM Coil we service Government organisations e.g. prestigious hotels, shopping malls, clubs, offices and hospitals to name a few.
At no charge, we will call out to inspect your system, evaluate your needs and then draw up a cleaning and maintenance schedule to suit your budget. We are only too happy to help you ascertain the required frequency of a service and report schedule based on the general state of repair of your system.