How Kitchen Ventilation Affects Customer Satisfaction in Open Kitchens

How Kitchen Ventilation Affects Customer Satisfaction in Open Kitchens

Open kitchen concepts are on the rise in today’s restaurant scene, offering a front-row seat to the culinary action and creating a warm, immersive dining atmosphere. By bringing cooking stations into full view, guests feel more connected to the process—and often appreciate the transparency. However, this setup also poses unique challenges. Without proper commercial kitchen ventilation, lingering smoke, odors, and excessive heat can quickly detract from the overall dining experience.

This is where robust kitchen hood systems and restaurant ventilation solutions become indispensable. By effectively removing airborne contaminants and regulating temperature, a well-designed ventilation system enhances air quality and keeps patrons comfortable. In turn, you foster a positive impression that encourages repeat visits and glowing word-of-mouth recommendations.

In this article, we’ll explore why strategic ventilation is crucial for open kitchens, delve into proven technologies, and share practical tips to ensure your guests return time and again.

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Understanding the Importance of Kitchen Ventilation in Open Kitchens

Open kitchens have rapidly become one of the most sought-after concepts in the restaurant industry. By allowing guests to witness the culinary process firsthand, these layouts create a more engaging and transparent dining experience. However, the absence of physical barriers also makes proper commercial kitchen ventilation essential. Without an efficient kitchen hood system and supporting exhaust solutions, smoke and odors can easily drift into the dining area, compromising both ambience and air quality.

From a management perspective, open kitchens introduce unique operational challenges. Not only must owners and staff refine workflow processes and customer engagement, but they must also prioritize a robust restaurant ventilation setup. When the cooking space shares an atmosphere with guests, every aroma and temperature fluctuation is immediately noticeable. Additionally, employees may feel added pressure under constant observation, making effective ventilation systems vital for maintaining a comfortable working environment.

Below are a few key reasons why adequate ventilation is especially critical in open kitchens:

  • Shared Atmosphere: Guests and staff occupy the same space, so clean air and optimal temperature levels directly impact customer satisfaction.
  • Employee Comfort: With no enclosed back-of-house, chefs and support staff are always in the spotlight—proper airflow ensures a less stressful environment.
  • Odor and Smoke Control: Unmanaged grease, smoke, and strong food smells can quickly tarnish your restaurant’s reputation, making high-grade ventilation a must.
  • Customer Experience: An open design enhances transparency, but it also highlights any missteps. Reliable ventilation helps keep the focus on your food’s quality and presentation, not unpleasant odors or a stuffy atmosphere.

By investing in the right hood systems, exhaust fans, and air filtration units, you can transform your open kitchen into a positive selling point that delights customers and streamlines operations.

Designing Tips for Open Kitchens with Effective Ventilation Solutions

Designing Tips for Open Kitchens with Effective Ventilation Solutions

Creating an open kitchen involves striking the right balance between aesthetics, functionality, and commercial kitchen ventilation needs. By carefully planning your space and prioritizing airflow, you can ensure a pleasant environment for both diners and staff. Below are some essential considerations:

  1. Allocate Sufficient Space
    • Ensure ample room for kitchen hood systems, cooking equipment, and walkways.
    • A well-organized layout prevents overcrowding and makes ventilation systems more efficient.
  2. Invest in Powerful Exhausts and Hoods
    • Choose Type I or Type II hoods depending on your cooking methods (e.g., high grease vs. low grease).
    • Opt for energy-efficient exhaust fans and make-up air units (MAUs) to maintain balanced airflow.
  3. Plan Customer-Chef Interactions
    • Keep high-heat or smoky cooking stations slightly away from guest seating to minimize odor transfer.
    • Arrange counters or a transparent partition so guests can watch the action without being overwhelmed by heat or smoke.
  4. Consult Professional Layout Designers
    • Seek experts in restaurant ventilation and architecture to optimize traffic flow and air circulation.
    • Professionals can recommend the best hood types, filtration systems, and HVAC solutions for your unique space.

An open kitchen not only adds an element of theater to your restaurant but also provides transparency that modern diners appreciate. If you’re looking to boost customer engagement or revitalize a slow business, consider implementing an open kitchen concept—just remember to prioritize ventilation from the start.

Best Ventilation Systems for Open Kitchen Layouts

Open kitchens require specialized commercial kitchen ventilation solutions to effectively manage smoke, grease, and odors. The ideal system depends on factors such as cooking volume, menu style, and energy consumption. Here are some proven ventilation technologies that can help maintain a clean, comfortable environment for both guests and staff:

  1. Type I and Type II Kitchen Hoods
    • Type I Hoods: Designed for cooking processes that generate significant grease and smoke (e.g., frying, broiling).
    • Type II Hoods: Best suited for heat and steam removal when grease production is minimal.
    • Benefit: Effectively captures airborne contaminants at their source, improving air quality and reducing fire risks.
  2. Exhaust Fans and Make-Up Air Units (MAUs)
    • Exhaust Fans: Pull out smoke and odors, keeping the kitchen’s air fresh.
    • MAUs: Bring in fresh, filtered air to replace the air exhausted, preventing negative pressure issues.
    • Benefit: Balances airflow and temperature, ensuring optimal working conditions and a pleasant dining area.
  3. Ventless Systems
    • Ideal for Smaller Spaces: Does not require traditional ductwork, making it easier to install in tight or historic buildings.
    • Onboard Filtration: Equipped with advanced filters to capture grease, odors, and particulates.
    • Benefit: Flexibility in layout and design, without sacrificing air quality.
  4. Grease and Smoke Filtration Systems
    • High-Efficiency Filters: Trap grease particles before they spread, reducing buildup on equipment and walls.
    • Activated Carbon Filters: Absorb odors to maintain a pleasant ambiance.
    • Benefit: Prolongs the life of your restaurant ventilation setup and streamlines cleaning routines.
  5. UV-C Light and UCV Systems
    • Ultraviolet Technology: Targets grease molecules and odors, breaking them down at a molecular level.
    • Reduced Maintenance: Helps keep ductwork cleaner over time, cutting down on cleaning costs.
    • Benefit: Creates a safer, more energy-efficient ventilation environment.

Learn More
For a deeper dive into why proper ventilation matters, check out our post:
The Importance of Proper Commercial Kitchen Ventilation | Denver, CO

By selecting the right mix of kitchen hood systems, exhaust units, and filtration technology, you’ll ensure that your open kitchen maintains superior air quality—promoting customer comfort, protecting staff well-being, and preserving the inviting atmosphere that keeps diners coming back.

Common Ventilation Problems in Open Kitchens and How to Solve Them

 Common Ventilation Problems in Open Kitchens and How to Solve Them

Even with regular maintenance, open kitchens can still face ventilation challenges that impact both customer satisfaction and staff comfort. Below is a quick overview of the most common issues—and proven solutions—to keep your commercial kitchen ventilation system running at peak efficiency:

IssueSolution
Grease BuildupInstall high-efficiency grease filters and schedule routine cleaning of ducts, hoods, and fans.
Poor Air QualityUse high-efficiency air filters and ensure a proper make-up air system to remove contaminants.
Temperature ImbalanceImplement a balanced make-up air unit (MAU) with temperature controls to stabilize hot or cold spots.
Negative Air PressureUtilize MAUs to equalize indoor/outdoor air pressure, preventing unwanted drafts and door-closing issues.
Odor LeakageInvest in UV-C (ultraviolet) technology or carbon filtration systems to neutralize odors before they spread.

Protect Your Open Kitchen & Reputation

Keep smoke, grease, and unpleasant odors under control with professional restaurant ventilation solutions.

Call APS-Hoods at 800-750-7313 for comprehensive services tailored to your open kitchen’s unique needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, we address the most common questions about open kitchen ventilation and how to maintain a comfortable, healthy environment for both patrons and staff.

1. Why Is Proper Ventilation Important for Open Kitchens?

Answer:
An effective commercial kitchen ventilation system not only removes smoke, grease, and odors but also stabilizes temperatures and air quality. This creates a more enjoyable dining experience and a safer work environment. Good ventilation reduces the strain on employees, minimizes distractions from cooking fumes, and helps maintain the inviting atmosphere that customers expect when they can see—and smell—everything happening in your kitchen.

2. What Are the Common Ventilation Challenges in Open Kitchen Restaurants?

Answer:
Open kitchens often face issues such as negative air pressure, smoke accumulation, odor leakage, and fluctuating temperatures. These challenges arise because there’s no physical barrier between the cooking area and the dining space. Properly sized exhaust fans, make-up air units (MAUs), and advanced filtration systems can effectively address these concerns.

3. What Types of Ventilation Systems Are Recommended for Open Kitchens?

Answer:
The optimal system depends on your menu, cooking volume, and layout. Key options include:

  • Type I & Type II Hoods: For high-grease (Type I) or steam-heavy (Type II) cooking.
  • Ventless Systems: Perfect for smaller spaces or buildings where traditional ductwork isn’t feasible.
  • UV-C Odor Control: Uses ultraviolet light to break down grease and neutralize odors at the molecular level.

Consulting a restaurant ventilation expert can help you determine the best combination of technologies for your specific operation.

4. How Does Negative Air Pressure Impact Restaurant Operations?

Answer:
Negative air pressure occurs when more air is exhausted than supplied, causing difficulties in opening doors and trapping odors inside. This imbalance can also draw in unfiltered air from outside or other parts of the building. Installing make-up air units ensures fresh, balanced airflow and prevents these issues from compromising the dining experience.

5. How Often Should Ventilation Systems in Open Kitchens Be Cleaned and Maintained?

Answer:
Frequency varies based on your cooking intensity and the volume of grease generated. However, it’s best practice to schedule hood and duct cleaning at least once per quarter for high-volume establishments. Regular HVAC inspections and filter replacements help maintain efficiency, extend equipment lifespan, and comply with local health and fire codes.

6. What Signs Indicate That My Open Kitchen Ventilation System Needs an Upgrade?

Answer:
Look for persistent odors, excessive smoke, uneven temperatures, or difficulty in maintaining air quality. If customers frequently comment on smells or staff complain about discomfort while cooking, it’s time to evaluate and possibly upgrade your current kitchen ventilation setup. Consulting professionals for an on-site assessment can pinpoint issues and recommend cost-effective solutions.

7. Can Improper Ventilation Affect Food Safety and Hygiene in Restaurants?

Answer:
Absolutely. Poor ventilation can lead to grease buildup, higher humidity, and fluctuating temperatures—all of which can compromise food storage and preparation conditions. In addition, lingering odors and smoke reduce overall cleanliness and may deter customers. A well-maintained ventilation system helps uphold food safety standards and enhances your restaurant’s reputation.

8. How Can UV-C Systems Help with Odor Control in Open Kitchens?

Answer:
UV-C technology targets and breaks down the molecular structure of grease and odor-causing compounds, significantly reducing smells before they spread into the dining area. These systems can also minimize grease buildup in ducts and hoods, lowering maintenance costs and fire risks over time.

9. How Can I Choose the Best Ventilation Solution for My Restaurant’s Open Kitchen Design?

Answer:
Selecting the right ventilation approach involves evaluating cooking methods, kitchen size, and local regulations. From MAUs and Type I hoods to ventless solutions and UV-C systems, each option has its strengths. For personalized guidance and a comprehensive assessment, reach out to APS-Hoods for a free consultation.

Need Expert Help With Your Open Kitchen Ventilation?
Contact APS-Hoods today for customized solutions that keep your restaurant inviting, comfortable, and compliant.

Final Thoughts

Whether you already feature an open kitchen or are planning to introduce one, you’re tapping into a growing culinary trend that resonates with today’s diners. The transparent layout encourages guest interaction and offers a unique window into the artistry behind each dish.

However, keep in mind that commercial kitchen ventilation is a key factor in maintaining a comfortable, odor-free environment. Here are some essentials to keep your open kitchen running smoothly:

  • Invest in Staff Training: Ensure team members know how to operate and maintain ventilation equipment.
  • Upgrade Your Hood Systems: Install or retrofit hoods, filters, and exhaust fans as needed to handle evolving cooking demands.
  • Schedule Regular Inspections: Catch minor issues before they become major headaches, and stay compliant with local health and safety regulations.

Create the Perfect Dining Atmosphere

Proper ventilation not only enhances customer comfort but also safeguards food quality and aligns your restaurant with health codes. Count on APS-Hoods for professional cleaning, repairs, and turnkey installations that keep your open kitchen inviting and fully compliant.

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How to Clean a Restaurant’s Kitchen Hood

Restaurants and commercial kitchens can’t operate without exhaust hoods. Exhaust or range hoods are an essential part of the kitchen setup. Since a restaurant produces a lot of grease, you need to install an exhaust hood system that is designed to fulfill your everyday needs. While the range hoods keep your restaurant safe and comfortable, it is crucial for you to clean and maintain the commercial kitchen hoods in a proper manner. By keeping your kitchen hoods clean, you will keep the restaurant running in a smooth manner and remain code-compliant. 

At APS Hoods in Denver, CO, we specialize in commercial kitchen and equipment cleaning. If you are unfamiliar with it, let us help you understand how commercial kitchen hood cleaning is carried out.  

Why Commercial Kitchen Hoods Need Cleaning

Being a restaurant owner, you should know the importance of cleaning. But you should also remain fully aware of what could happen, if you do not clean and maintain your kitchen exhaust hoods on a regular basis. Given below are some of the key reasons why exhaust system cleaning is essential.

Fire Prevention: Restaurant fires can be very dangerous. Improper cleaning or failure to clean the exhaust hoods is one of key reasons behind restaurant fires. When range hoods are left uncleaned, they gather grease and grime, which increases the risk of fire in the kitchen manifolds. Greasy fires are difficult to control and can spread very fast. That is why the first step you should take is to prevent this fire from happening by keeping the kitchen hoods clean.

Insurance Liability: If the due date of your exhaust system inspection passes and the cleaning is not done, you will be solely responsible for any kind of damage that occurs due to fire breakout. The insurance company will not cover the losses caused due to the fire. If you plan to avoid this situation, you should get the inspection conducted by professionals in a timely manner.

Productivity: Vent hood cleaning is an essential part of the overall commercial kitchen maintenance procedure. If you keep the hoods clean, the maintenance task becomes easier. As a result, the kitchen remains free from heat, smoke and contaminated air, improving the indoor air quality. Most of all, clean range hoods mean your restaurant will have maximized function and the efficiency and productivity of the kitchen employees will increase as well.

Regular hood exhaust cleaning and grease trap cleaning will keep your restaurant functioning without any hassles or interruptions. You will keep both your employees safe, healthy and happy.

What are the Components of a Commercial Kitchen Hood?

A commercial kitchen hood consists of three main parts including Type I or Type II hood, the grease ductwork and an exhaust fan. The hoods are installed over the restaurant equipment to collect and remove grease.

The process of commercial hood cleaning is an elaborate one. A trained professional starts the procedure while following each step in a proper and safe manner. If an amateur or an untrained person performs the cleaning, he will expose himself to various types of hazards and might end up causing damage to the expensive kitchen equipment and appliances in the process. That is exactly why you should rely only on specialists for the job and get all the cleaning done correctly. Every part of the exhaust hood needs to be cleaned separately.

Restaurant hood cleaning involves exhaust hood cleaning, grease trap cleaning, hood filter cleaning, hood fan cleaning, grease duct cleaning and trash chute cleaning. If you have a question in this regard, feel free to talk to one of our experts at APS Hoods, which operates in Denver, CO.

Restaurant Hood Cleaning Procedure

Following the step-by-step process of hood cleaning ensures your restaurant remains free from different kinds of safety and fire hazards. The cleaning should be conducted exactly as per NFPA standards.

Exhaust Hood Cleaning

The function of an exhaust hood is to throw contaminated air out of the kitchen. If not cleaned and removed, the contaminants deposit in the vent hood system, resulting in poor ventilation and risk of fire.

In order to clean the range hoods, the technician first removes all the components. So, he will uninstall parts such as the grease traps, hood filters, exhaust fans etc. This ensures that the cleaning of every single component is done separately and in a proper and effective manner.

The technician prepares a cleaning solution by mixing the liquid degreaser and warm water in a bucket. Then, the cleaning of the hood interior starts. After scrubbing and wiping the interior, the professional starts cleaning the exteriors of the range hoods. In order to deliver a thorough clean, kitchen cleaning companies use a wide range of methods and tools during the process. At APS Hoods, we regularly perform commercial restaurant cleaning and vent hood cleaning and understand the varying needs of every cooking facility with absolute clarity. With our certified and trained technicians by your side, you can feel confident that the exhaust hood cleaning of your restaurant facility will be conducted with full professionalism.

Grease Trap Cleaning

Grease traps are installed in order to prevent greasy substances from getting into the ventilation and the sewage system. 

There are different sizes of grease traps. So, the frequency of these devices depends on their actual size installed in a restaurant, cafeteria, dining center etc. If you neglect grease trap cleaning, these devices will start to overflow. This, in turn, will take a toll on the entire exhaust hood system.

In order to clean the grease trap, the technician first uninstalls it or removes it from the range hood. Then, the scrubbing and degreasing of this device is conducted. It is crucial to not let the removed grease deposit pass through the drain. In fact, all the greasy material should be collected in a container. After scrubbing, the grease traps are placed into a solution. After 10-15 minutes, the devices are taken out of the solution and then air-dried before reinstallation.

Kitchen Hood Filter Cleaning

Hood filters are a crucial part of the exhaust hood system. The role of these filters is to filter the air that is pushed through the hood system. In the absence or failure of these filters, grease will deposit inside the air ducts. This, in turn, could become a potential fire hazard creating risk for everyone working inside the kitchen as well as the visitors who come to dine in the restaurant.

Since hood filters catch and remove the particulate matter in the air, they need proper cleaning on a regular basis. When it comes to cleaning the kitchen hood filters, the technician will first uninstall the component from the range hood. Once separated from the unit, it becomes easy to clean the filters. Once the degreasing solution is ready, the technician puts the filters into it. Based on specific needs, the filters can be left to soak in the solution for several hours. After removal from the solution, the hood filters get scrubbed and rinsing until fully clean.

Before the filters are ready to reinstall, the technician makes sure the component is fully dry. Giving hood filters a thorough clean in a timely manner keeps the entire kitchen exhaust hood system in good shape.

Hood Fan Cleaning

Located inside the range hood, the exhaust hood fan pulls the air through the filter. So, the device plays a crucial role in getting rid of the heat, steam or smells from the commercial kitchen. It is due to these fans that the distribution and flow of the air in the kitchen remains balanced. Based on the type of exhaust hood system you have installed in your cooking facility, there may be a few or more fans inside the hood. It is very important to keep the hood fans clean, just like other components of the kitchen exhaust or range hood system.

To clean the hood fan, the professional uninstalls the device first. Once the fans are separated from the hood system, it becomes much easier to clean and degrease them in a proper manner. 

After the fan blade covers are removed, the technician gets access to each one of the fan blades. Now, the fan blades are detached as well. In this way, the technician can clean each fan blade individually. If your hood system has several fans, it will be important to not fix up all the blades with one another. The technician leaves all the blades in the cleaning solution to soak. After soaking has been done, the fan blades are taken out the solution and left to dry. Once fully dried, the technician starts to reattach the hood fan blades, one after another.

Finally, the blower is put back into the kitchen hood for reinstallation. This is how the hood cleaning procedure is completed.

Kitchen Hood Duct Cleaning

All the hood ducts need thorough cleaning to function with maximum efficiency. Those docs that lie out of the range will be easy to clean. To properly clean all the ducts, you will need the help of experienced professionals. Trained technicians will clean all the ducts including the easily reachable ones as well as those that are hard to reach. Using the cleaning solution, the interiors and the exteriors of the hood ducts will be scrubbed and washed and cleaned.

Once duct cleaning has been completed, the ducts will be left to dry. To know more about the hood ducts and the methods used to clean them, get in touch with one of our professionals at APS Hoods in Denver, CO.

How Often Should Commercial Kitchen Hoods be Cleaned?

The frequency of hood cleaning varies from one type of restaurant to another. Many restaurants are required to carry out the exhaust hood cleaning at the interval of every three months. To find out the exact frequency, three key factors play a crucial role including the menu items, amount of cooking and the type of cooking equipment and appliances you use in the kitchen.

A monthly hood inspection is required for those restaurants that use solid fuel for cooking operations. Likewise, you may need to set up a monthly, quarterly, semi annual or annual hood cleaning schedule.

To find out more about the frequency of restaurant hood vent cleaning, reach out to one of our commercial cleanup experts. At APS Hoods, we will first evaluate the specific cleaning needs of your restaurant, bar, hotel, dining center, cooking facility etc. Then our experts will develop the most ideal cleaning schedule for your business to eliminate potential safety hazards and stay compliant to the fire safety codes as outlined by the National Fire Protection Association.

Commercial Kitchen Cleaning Services

A restaurant’s kitchen hood cleaning is different from general cleaning. If you lack the knowledge and experience to do the exhaust system cleaning yourself, you should seek the help of professional bar and restaurant cleaning services. Trained professionals specialize in commercial kitchen hood cleaning and carry out the procedure while abiding by all the necessary codes and regulations. Professionals will use the right set of tools as well as correct methods to properly clean every component of the exhaust hood system installed in your kitchen.

In addition to cleaning, you can hire a restaurant cleaning company for the inspection and maintenance of hood systems too. To get more details on these services, get in touch with one of our specialists.

Still Have a Question?

If you are a restaurant owner, you should never ignore or delay the inspection and cleaning of your exhaust hood system. Uncleaned hoods create serious safety hazards, putting the safety and health of your employees and guests at risk and putting you in violation of the essential codes. If you have an additional question or want to schedule restaurant hood cleaning in Denver, CO, reach out to APS Hoods. Our bar and restaurant cleaning services are designed to help you run your business smoothly by eliminating potential risks of fire hazards.

For your free consultation, you can reach our Denver office via a phone call or write to us an email using the contact form.

Along with APS Hoods, we also run Hood Builder and Nationwide Fire Protection to bring you all the restaurant design-related services in one place. For your free consultation with one of our specialists, you can either call our office phone number or write to us using the contact form.

The One-Stop Shop for the Design, Construction and Maintenance of All Equipment and Parts in a Commercial Kitchen

The One-Stop Shop for the Design, Construction and Maintenance of All Equipment and Parts in a Commercial Kitchen

The overall design of a restaurant and large kitchen has a massive impact on the staff and guests as well as the restaurant’s profitability. A great deal of planning goes behind how exactly all the cooking appliances and equipment will be arranged in the available space in order to make the kitchen both safe and comfortable for the employees to work in. During the construction of a restaurant, professionals pay serious attention and adhere to all the building and fire safety codes as prescribed by the local authorities. Whether it is the cooking appliances, water supply, drainage, heating and ventilation systems, every part and component of all the systems and units must be designed in a highly effective and accurate manner. 

If you plan to build a new restaurant or remodel an existing one, you should reach out to APS Hoods in Denver, CO, a highly trusted company that specializes in commercial kitchen design, exhaust hood installation, HVAC installation, kitchen equipment cleaning, restaurant hood repair, duct repair etc.

The Restaurant Industry Has Reinvented Itself!

Over the last one decade, the restaurant industry has evolved and come a long way. This is to keep pace with the changing demands of the customers as well as the changing codes, laws and regulations.

When you start designing and building a kitchen, the first thing you should do is to familiarize yourself with the recent developments in the restaurant and commercial kitchen industry. If you are up-to-date, it will become easier to build a restaurant and commercial kitchen that caters to the specific needs of the modern-day guests and keep the employees happy. Right from investing in the right type of commercial cooking appliances to the methods of installation, you should carry out every project with a focus on the changing needs. Food safety, food handling practices and waste management should be paid serious attention.

Not just design and construction, but the maintenance of all cooking appliances and equipment in the commercial kitchen is an important concern. That is exactly why it is crucial to work with those professionals who have deep expertise in building a large kitchen from the scratch level.

Designing a Restaurant Floor Plan

A restaurant floor plan contains all the details about the physical arrangement of the cooking appliances and equipment and all other components including refrigerators, stoves, ovens, freezers, mixers, slicers, range hoods, sinks, fire suppression systems, tables, chairs, entrance area, waiting area, windows, doors, emergency exits and a lot more. If you plan to design and construct a large kitchen, the planning stage is of utmost importance. Here, it is extremely important to understand that one size does not fit all, particularly when it comes to designing restaurants and commercial kitchens. Every floor is different and unique.

It is the job of experts to create an ideal floor plan for a restaurant based on the specific needs of that restaurant. Design engineers and professionals are quite well-versed as to how the space can be maximized and made functional and practical for a hassle-free working experience in the kitchen.

Most importantly, the floor plan should be designed in accordance with the building and safety codes. A commercial kitchen is designed for employees in the first place and the dining area for guests in the first place. When a restaurant is designed and constructed, the focus should remain on the needs of the average customer. Apart from APS Hoods, we operate two other sister companies including the Hood Builder and Nationwide Fire Protection to provide clients with a one-stop shop where they can get all services for building a commercial kitchen, completing all the technician works and installation and maintenance of all cooking appliances.

To find out more about what exactly a restaurant and commercial kitchen floor plan will be designed and what it will include, reach out to one of our highly trained professionals at APS Hoods in Denver, CO. 

What Equipment You Need in a Commercial Kitchen

The kitchen is the core part of a restaurant. It is the kitchen where all the different types of foods are prepared and dishes are cooked. A commercial kitchen has a wide range of cooking appliances and equipment to perform different functions for proper cooking and food preparation. The actual selection of the kitchen equipment depends on what kind of menu you have for guests.

Here is a list of some of the most important appliances and equipment you will need in your large, commercial kitchen.

Ovens

The moment you think about a restaurant kitchen, oven is the first word that comes to your mind. Before you choose ovens, you should be clear about exactly what type of restaurant you plan to operate. There are both specific ovens as well as multipurpose ovens. It is important to understand that ovens occupy a lot of space inside a kitchen. That is why you need to pick the right size and quality of commercial oven. It is always best to go through online reviews and testimonials before you invest in the right type and brand of commercial ovens. Always go for oven brands that have a solid reputation for providing top quality for years.

With our professionals by your side, you will find it easy to select the right type, size and quality of ovens for your commercial kitchen.

Exhaust Hoods

The air inside a commercial kitchen becomes contaminated and polluted due to the production of a large amount of heat and smoke. The function of exhaust hoods is to throw the contaminated air out in order to maintain better air quality inside the kitchen. There are two main types of kitchen hoods including Type I and Type II. Based on what type of cooking will be done in your commercial kitchen, you will need to select either the Type I or Type II exhaust hoods. 

Range hoods or exhaust hoods are one of the most crucial pieces of commercial kitchen equipment. Experts will custom-design exhaust foods to fit the exact needs and size of the cooking station.

Heating and Air Conditioning

A perfect commercial kitchen offers a fully safe and comfortable working environment for employees. Without proper heating and air-conditioning, working inside the kitchen will be extremely difficult and unsafe. 

No matter what season or weather it is, a properly installed heating and air-conditioning system will create a safe working environment. However, setting up this entire system requires planning. The heating and air-conditioning system is designed as per the size and type of your kitchen. While correct installation is essential, it is also important to give the system regular maintenance.

Ventilation

Like you design and plan for everything else, you should also plan for kitchen ventilation in a proper manner. Since a lot of people work inside the kitchen, it becomes crowded as well as sweaty. 

Using a high quality HVAC system, you will be able to take care of each including heating, ventilation and air-conditioning together. If your kitchen is well-ventilated, the indoor air quality will improve and offer employees a cool and comfortable working environment for the staff. When it comes to the ventilation hood installation, it is very important to carry out the entire project while following all codes and safety regulations. The vent hoods should also be powerful enough to pull out contaminated air and pull in fresh air without any hassle.

HVAC makeup air and ventilation air volume are important considerations during the design and installation of the vent hood system. At APS Hoods in Denver, CO, we possess sound expertise in designing ventilation hood systems as well as provide HVAC service, HVAC repair and HVAC balancing. Feel free to get in touch with one of our experts to get more information.

Food Processors

Food processors are one of the most useful equipment placed in a restaurant kitchen. Whether it is chopping, slicing or blending, food processors make all these tasks feel like a breeze. When looking for these appliances, you will come across different types and varieties. Based on your exact needs, you should purchase the right type of food processors for your commercial kitchen. Some popular types of these processors include Batch bowl food processors, Continuous feed food processors, buffalo choppers etc. Over the years, the design of food processors has also evolved to maximize functions. When looking for these appliances, you should definitely take a look at the products’ horsepower ratings.

Slicers

When it comes to the selection of food slicers, you should take your menu into account. Without having slicers, the staff will have a hard time prepping food. You should always select the most ideal type of food slicers for your commercial kitchen. Slicers are available with different horsepower capacities. If you will do a great deal of slicing in your kitchen, go for high HP slicers. 

Freezers and Refrigerators

Refrigerators are essential equipment for storing foods and ingredients. You will need a highly efficient refrigeration system both for storing food as well as managing your inventory. Freezers and refrigerators used in a large kitchen are commercial-grade. These refrigerators are designed to fulfill the specific needs of a commercial kitchen on an everyday basis. Depending on what type of restaurant you plan to build, you can choose either reach-in or walk-in refrigerators.

Walk-in refrigerators are custom-designed to suit the specific needs of large restaurant kitchens. To find out more about what type of refrigeration system will be best for your kitchen, you should seek the help of experts.

Commercial Kitchen Cleaning and Maintenance

Building a large, commercial kitchen is a big investment. That is exactly why you need to pay serious attention to the proper cleaning and maintenance of every area, part and component of the restaurant kitchen.

Giving your commercial kitchen proper maintenance will extend the life of all the appliances, equipment and units. While you may want to do some general cleaning on your own, you should always call in professionals to clean all the commercial-grade equipment and cooking appliances. Without proper training, cleaning these appliances can be unsafe and dangerous. Plus, you may even end up damaging the expensive equipment in the process. Cleaning and maintenance of ovens, refrigeration system, exhaust hood system, cold rooms and fryers requires training and certification. At APS Hoods, we specialize exhaust system cleaning, grease trap cleaning, trash chute cleaning, kitchen equipment cleaning, range hood cleaning and duct cleaning as well as wall and floor cleaning.

Timely cleaning of kitchen equipment and appliances will help you boost efficiency and avoid costly repairs. Our company has a well-defined procedure in place for restaurant hood cleaning.  Our professional cleaning includes degreasing the hoods, removal of grease deposits from other components and cleaning the duct work as well as repairing the exhaust hood fan belts.

Why You Should Work with Us

Whether it is the design and construction of a commercial kitchen or its proper cleaning and maintenance, we are your one-stop solution to all the needs. In addition to APS Hoods, we run two other companies to provide you all restaurant-related services under one umbrella. With our expertly trained professionals, you will be able to design and build the restaurant and commercial kitchen of your dreams while staying compliant to all the codes, laws and regulations.

Our track record for accomplishing restaurant building projects is well-proven. We cater to the needs of restaurants, hotels, food establishments, cafeteria, coffee shops and cooking facilities all across Denver, CO.

Talk to a Commercial Kitchen Design Specialist

Do you plan to launch your new restaurant and commercial kitchen soon? Whether you want to open a new one or remodel an existing one, head over to APS Hoods in Denver, CO. Being a restaurant construction and design company, we provide complete restaurant building services including the entire design, construction and maintenance as well as all the technical work. Our professionals will help you set up a restaurant, commercial kitchen, cafeteria, dining establishment or cooking facility while abiding by all the essential codes and regulations.

Along with APS Hoods, we also run Hood Builder and Nationwide Fire Protection to bring you all the restaurant design-related services in one place. For your free consultation with one of our specialists, you can either call our office phone number or write to us using the contact form.

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    Exhaust System Cleaning
    Range Hood Installation Explained

    Range Hood Installation Explained

    Large kitchens in hotels, restaurants, and other food service facilities operate for several hours in a row, on a consistent basis. As a result of the frequent, high volume of cooking, the facilities also produce a large amount of fume, heat, smoke, grease, and grime. To deal with all of this accumulation, hospitality businesses require to install commercial range hoods. The purpose of the kitchen hood or range hood is to maintain proper air quality and keep the environment safe and healthy, both for the staff as well as guests who visit the restaurant for dining.  If you run a commercial kitchen, you should have some knowledge of how range or exhaust hoods are installed for proper ventilation.  

    Call APS-Hoods for a free estimate on your Commercial Kitchen Hood Cleaning & Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning needs.

     

    Planning and Preparation

    All commercial kitchens are not the same. Before the range hood installation is carried out, the facility managers need to consult with hood builders and contractors to develop an effective plan for the project. At APS Hoods, we design an array of range hoods to suit the specific needs of a large kitchen or a commercial food service facility. From hood schematics to specifications and assembling of all the hood components, all the crucial details need to be planned in an accurate manner. If the planning is not correct, the quality of the installation will not be perfect. Poorly designed and installed range hoods will not deliver the results as per your expectations. When it comes to preparation, it is crucial to determine the need for sturdy structures to support the weight of the hoods. So, specialists will inspect the location of the hood installation and evaluate whether there is a need to install additional structures to set up the range hoods. According to the guidelines put forth by the National Fire Protection Association, installers will need to leave adequate gaps or clearance between the range hood, exhaust ducts, and the construction materials. Professional range hood installation is performed in accordance with the building codes. The entire project is carried out as per the ventilation hood diagram.

    Kitchen Hood Installation

    The installation of commercial range hoods involves several essential steps, each of which should be followed correctly. Professionals make sure the entire procedure is performed in an error-free manner.

    Safety Codes:

    During the installation, the utmost priority is to ensure the safety of the workers. Range hood contractors execute the project while adhering to the safety codes outlined by the concerned authorities. Professionals use proper gear and tools to minimize the risk of physical injuries.

    Range Hood Diagram:

    After the ventilation hood parts have been unpacked, a review will be conducted to see to it that all the components are in good shape and there is no damage. The professional will check out the hood assembly and get started with the installation as per the diagram. The hood diagram includes all the details of the project as it was planned.

    Hood Position:

    The installation manual contains crucial details in regard to how the range hood will be hung and supported. The installation process will be executed in a careful manner while making sure that adequate support is available to hold the weight of the hood weight. Here, the contractor may also need to make some adjustments to properly set up the hoods.

    Elevate Hood Bottom:

    In compliance with the national and local codes, the installation specialists need to raise the bottom of the range hood a few feet from the ground. If this criterion is not fulfilled, the codes will be violated. High lifts are employed to lift the hood for accurate positioning. Again, this will be done as per the details mentioned in the range hood diagram.

    Duct Welding:

    The installation manual has all the details about the installation of the duct-work. This is an important step of the entire hood installation process. The welding of the ducts is a job that requires a great deal of precision. Professionals perform the task while leaving no gaps or leaks. Leakage in the ductwork pipe can cause multiple problems in the future.

    Other Installations:

    The range hood setup involves the installation of grease filters, grease cups, and lighting. Once the ventilation hood has been installed and positioned, these smaller installations will follow. The installation of a commercial range hood is an elaborate process. Apart from what you read above, there are many other details that the entire procedure involves. From hanging the range hood to drilling and securing the threaded rods, installers have to focus on each task with great attention to detail. If you plan for the hood installation to be performed in a correct manner while abiding by all the safety and building codes, you should hire only the experts.

    Factors to Consider for Hood Installation

    Before the range hood installation can begin, it is extremely important to ensure all the electrical components are in proper order.  Also, commercial kitchen hoods should vent outside of the building. If the hoods vent inside of the building, in the ceiling, or in the basement, the risk of fire accidents will increase manifolds. In fact, in the event of a fire breakout, there will be great damage to property and assets. That is why you should only rely on professional contractors for the range hood installation.  The cost of range hood installation depends on the type or style, materials used, and the location of the commercial kitchen. Usually, you can expect contractors to finish the project in around a day.

    Hire a Professional Range Hood Installation Company

    From selecting the right type of range hood for your commercial kitchen to getting the installation done in a swift and correct manner, APS Hoods has a successful track record spanning over two decades. If you have a question or want some more clarity on any particular aspect of the procedure, you should feel free to consult with one of our hood installation specialists. For your free consultation and quote, you can give our office a phone call or write us an email using the contact form. Some related Posts:
    1. Restaurant Cleaning Services: Commercial Kitchen Appearances Matter – The Importance of a Pristine Exhaust Hood Finish | Denver
    2. Hood Exhaust Cleaning & Kitchen Maintenance Best Practices for Busy Restaurants
    3. All You Need to Know About Restaurant Hood Maintenance to Protect Your Investment

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