How Often Should You Get Your Restaurant Hood Cleaned?

Running a restaurant on the Grand Strand means staying on top of many responsibilities—from customer service to kitchen operations. One of the most important safety measures you can’t overlook is regular hood cleaning. At HOODZ of Myrtle Beach, we help restaurants throughout Myrtle Beach, Conway, Surfside Beach, and the surrounding communities keep their kitchens compliant, safe, and ready for business. So, how often should you get your restaurant hood cleaned? The answer depends on the volume and style of cooking in your kitchen.

Why Hood Cleaning Matters

Grease buildup inside your exhaust hood and ductwork is more than just a maintenance issue—it’s a major safety concern. Without routine cleaning, you risk:

• A higher chance of kitchen fires

• Poor ventilation and uncomfortable working conditions

• Failing local fire and health inspections

• Damage to expensive kitchen equipment

To prevent these problems, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) created NFPA 96 standards, which outline how often professional hood cleanings should occur.

NFPA 96 Guidelines for Hood Cleaning

The NFPA recommends cleaning schedules based on the type of kitchen and cooking volume:

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

• Quarterly (Every 3 Months): Busy hotel kitchens, cafeterias, or full-service restaurants with heavy use.

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

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

These timelines represent the minimum standards—your kitchen may require more frequent service depending on your situation.

What Affects Your Cleaning Schedule?

Every restaurant is different, and your hood cleaning frequency may vary based on:

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

• Hours of operation: Longer hours = faster grease buildup.

• System design: Older or less efficient exhaust systems may need cleaning more often.

• Local codes: Regulations in Horry County may require stricter cleaning schedules.

Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Even if you follow a set schedule, there are times when you may need to call sooner. Watch for:

• Grease visibly collecting on or around the hood

• Lingering smoke or odors after cooking

• Airflow issues or reduced ventilation

• Smoke spreading into the dining area

If you notice these, it’s time to schedule service right away.

Why Choose HOODZ of Myrtle Beach?

At HOODZ of Myrtle Beach, we provide comprehensive hood cleaning services that:

• Meet or exceed NFPA 96 and local fire code standards

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

• Help reduce fire risk and improve air quality in your kitchen

• Are scheduled around your restaurant’s needs for minimal disruption

So, how often should you get your restaurant hood cleaned? At least as often as NFPA standards require—and often more, depending on your cooking style and hours. Keeping up with a regular schedule not only protects your business but also helps you avoid costly downtime and inspection failures.

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