How Often Should You Get Your Restaurant Hood Cleaned?

Running a restaurant means juggling a lot of responsibilities, but keeping your kitchen safe should always be at the top of the list. One of the most important safety measures is regular hood cleaning. At HOODZ of Birmingham, we help restaurants throughout Birmingham, Pelham, Tuscaloosa, and the surrounding areas stay compliant, safe, and worry-free with professional hood cleaning services. So, how often should you get your restaurant hood cleaned? The answer depends on the type of kitchen you run and how often you cook.

Why Hood Cleaning Matters

Grease naturally builds up in your exhaust hood and ductwork. Over time, this buildup can:

• Increase the risk of a dangerous kitchen fire

• Reduce ventilation and air quality

• Cause code compliance issues or health inspection problems

• Shorten the lifespan of your equipment

That’s why the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) created NFPA 96 standards to guide restaurant owners on how often professional hood cleaning is required.

NFPA 96 Guidelines for Hood Cleaning

Here’s what the NFPA recommends for commercial kitchens:

• Monthly: High-volume kitchens, such as 24-hour restaurants, fast food, or those using solid fuels like wood or charcoal.

• Quarterly (Every 3 Months): Busy operations like cafeterias, hotel kitchens, or sit-down restaurants with heavy use.

• Semi-Annually (Twice a Year): Moderate-volume kitchens, such as many casual dining restaurants.

• Annually: Low-volume kitchens, including churches, seasonal venues, or day camps.

These are minimum requirements—you may need to clean more often depending on your specific setup.

Factors That Affect Cleaning Frequency

Every kitchen is unique. In addition to the NFPA guidelines, consider these factors:

• Cooking style: Frying and charbroiling create more grease than baking or steaming.

• Hours of operation: Longer operating hours mean faster grease buildup.

• Ventilation system design: Older or less efficient systems may need more frequent cleaning.

• Local codes: Some Alabama municipalities may require stricter schedules.

Signs It’s Time for a Cleaning

Even if you’re on a schedule, don’t ignore these warning signs:

• Visible grease on or around your hood

• Strong odors that linger in the kitchen or dining area

• Smoke not venting properly

• Poor airflow when cooking

If you notice these issues, it’s best to schedule a cleaning right away.

Trust HOODZ of Birmingham

At HOODZ of Birmingham, we provide professional hood cleaning services that:

• Meet NFPA 96 and local code requirements

• Include thorough cleaning of hoods, filters, fans, and ductwork

• Keep your staff, customers, and property safe from fire hazards

• Fit your kitchen’s specific needs with custom service schedules

So, how often should you get your restaurant hood cleaned? At least as often as NFPA standards require—and in many cases, more frequently. Staying proactive with your cleaning schedule reduces risks, protects your investment, and ensures you pass inspections without stress.

Ready to schedule your next hood cleaning? Contact HOODZ of Birmingham today to get started.