Grease buildup in commercial kitchens isn’t just a cleanliness issue — it’s a major fire hazard. The kitchen hood and exhaust system collect grease from daily cooking, and if not cleaned regularly, that buildup can ignite with just one spark.
That’s why professional hood cleaning is not just a service — it’s a safety necessity.
At Discount Hood Cleaners, we follow a detailed and safety-driven process to ensure your kitchen stays compliant, efficient, and fire-free. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how professional hood cleaners remove grease safely.
Step 1: Inspection and Safety Preparation
Before starting, professionals conduct a thorough inspection of the entire exhaust system — including the hood, filters, ductwork, and fan.
During this step, the cleaning team:
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Turns off gas valves and disconnects electrical systems to prevent hazards.
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Covers cooking appliances and kitchen surfaces with fire-retardant plastic sheets.
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Ensures proper ventilation and uses non-slip mats to avoid workplace accidents.
This preparation ensures the cleaning process is safe, efficient, and compliant with NFPA 96 fire safety standards.
Step 2: Application of Grease-Dissolving Agents
Next, professional cleaners apply industrial-grade degreasers specially designed for kitchen exhaust systems. These eco-safe and non-toxic chemicals help break down thick grease layers that accumulate over time.
Depending on the grease buildup, the solution is either sprayed or foamed into the hood and ductwork. The cleaning team lets it sit for a few minutes to loosen stubborn grease deposits.
Step 3: High-Pressure Hot Water Cleaning
Once the degreaser has done its job, the next step is hot water pressure washing.
Using specialized equipment, technicians spray 180°F (82°C) to 200°F (93°C) water under high pressure into the system — blasting away loosened grease from:
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Exhaust hoods
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Filters and ducts
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Fans and fan blades
This method not only cleans thoroughly but also sanitizes the system, leaving no trace of grease or residue behind.
Step 4: Fan and Duct Cleaning
The exhaust fan and ducts are often where most grease accumulates — and where most fire risks originate.
Professional cleaners disassemble the fan units and remove every trace of grease from the blades, motor housing, and vent openings.
They also use rotary brushes or flexible cleaning tools to reach deep into ducts, ensuring the entire system is spotless and compliant with local fire codes.
Step 5: Polishing and Final Wipe-Down
After the system is thoroughly cleaned, technicians perform a detailed wipe-down of all visible surfaces. The stainless-steel hoods are polished for a professional finish, leaving your kitchen shining and odor-free.
All grease traps, filters, and removable parts are reinstalled and double-checked to make sure everything functions smoothly.
Step 6: Post-Cleaning Inspection and Report
Finally, professionals perform a post-cleaning inspection to ensure no area is missed.
Some companies provide a before-and-after photo report — so you can clearly see the difference and maintain records for insurance or fire inspections.
You also receive a cleaning certificate as proof of compliance with NFPA 96 standards, which many fire departments and insurance companies require.
Why Choose Professional Hood Cleaning Over DIY
While some restaurant owners try to clean hoods themselves, DIY cleaning can be risky and incomplete. Without proper tools and training, it’s easy to overlook hidden grease in ducts and fans — which can lead to fire hazards, poor ventilation, and system damage.
Professional hood cleaners bring:
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Certified cleaning tools and non-toxic chemicals
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Safety gear and experience with fire prevention protocols
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NFPA 96 compliance and cleaning certificates
Hiring experts ensures your restaurant kitchen remains safe, efficient, and inspection-ready year-round.
Final Thoughts
A clean kitchen exhaust system protects your restaurant from fire risks, costly repairs, and health code violations. At Discount Hood Cleaners, we prioritize safety in every step of our process — from inspection to certification.
If you haven’t had your hood cleaned recently, now is the perfect time to schedule a service.
Call Discount Hood Cleaners today for a professional and certified hood cleaning service in Toronto and surrounding areas — keeping your kitchen safe, clean, and fully compliant.
