A properly functioning hood system is essential for maintaining safety, cleanliness, and compliance in any commercial cooking environment. When a hood system is not working efficiently, you risk poor air quality, accelerated grease buildup, increased fire hazards, and costly equipment damage or downtime. Here are five signs your hood system may need attention—and what you can do about it.

1. Excessive Smoke or Odors in the Kitchen

If smoke or cooking odors linger longer than usual, your hood system may not be capturing and venting air effectively. This could be due to clogged filters, worn-out components, or insufficient airflow.
What to do:
•    Inspect and clean filters regularly.
•    Check for blockages in the ductwork.
•    Schedule a professional airflow test to ensure proper ventilation.

 

2. Grease Buildup on Surfaces
Noticing grease accumulation on equipment, hood canopy, or the surrounding area? This is a clear sign your hood system isn’t trapping grease as it should. Grease is bypassing your filters and accumulating on surfaces rather than being captured at the source. Over time, this buildup becomes a safety hazard and can lead to a high-risk environment.
What to do:
•    Replace or clean grease filters frequently.
•    Consider installing advanced grease containment solutions, such as Grease Lock® Filters, to reduce buildup and lower maintenance costs.

3. Unusual Noises or Vibrations
If your hood system starts making loud or unusual noises, it could indicate a problem with the fan motor or loose components. Ignoring these signs can lead to costly repairs or system failure.
What to do:
•    Turn off the system and inspect for loose parts.
•    Contact a qualified technician to check the fan and motor assembly.

4. Increased Energy Bills
A sudden spike in energy costs may mean your exhaust system is working harder than necessary due to clogged ductwork or hood and worn-out exhaust fans. Inefficient systems waste energy and money.
What to do:
•    Perform routine maintenance to ensure uninterrupted airflow.
•    Upgrade to energy-efficient components where possible.

5. Difficulty Passing Inspections
If your kitchen struggles to meet health or fire safety standards, your ventilation system could be the culprit. Inspectors often look for proper ventilation and grease control.
What to do:
•    Schedule regular professional cleanings and inspections.
•    Utilize products like Grease Lock® Filters to maintain compliance and minimize risk.

The Bottom Line
Your hood system is the heart of your kitchen’s ventilation. Ignoring warning signs can lead to safety hazards, higher costs, and downtime. By staying proactive with maintenance and investing in solutions like Grease Lock® Filters, you can keep your kitchen safe, efficient, and compliant.