What is Kitchen Extract Cleaning?
Kitchen extract cleaning is the process of removing built-up grease, oil and other residues from the extraction systems used in commercial kitchens. This includes the canopy, ductwork, fan and filters. Over time, these areas accumulate significant levels of grease, which can pose serious fire risks and affect the performance of your ventilation system.
This service is essential for any business operating a commercial kitchen, including restaurants, cafes, schools, hotels and catering facilities. Regular cleaning helps to maintain safe working conditions, ensures compliance with fire safety regulations and improves overall air quality in the kitchen environment.
Why it’s important
Without regular cleaning, grease and other residues build up quickly inside extraction systems. This can lead to:
Increased fire risk
Reduced airflow and ventilation
Non-compliance with insurance and health and safety requirements
Unpleasant odours or a rise in kitchen temperature
Potential contamination of food preparation areas
Many insurance providers and regulatory bodies require regular documentation of professional extract cleaning. Failing to do so can result in invalidated insurance or even forced closure in the event of an inspection.
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What is TR19 and Why Does it Matter?
TR19 is a recognised industry standard developed by BESA (Building Engineering Services Association) for the cleaning of ventilation systems. It provides detailed guidance on how kitchen extract systems should be cleaned, maintained and inspected.
While TR19 itself is not law, many UK insurance companies and environmental health officers use it as a benchmark when assessing fire risk and hygiene. Failure to comply with TR19 standards could invalidate insurance policies or lead to enforcement action from local authorities if a kitchen is deemed unsafe.
Following TR19 also means you’ll receive a certification and detailed documentation after each clean, providing peace of mind for your business and proof of compliance for inspections.
The Process
Kitchen extract systems vary in size and complexity, but the goal is always the same: to safely remove the build-up of grease and maintain proper airflow. Our process is designed to be thorough, efficient and tailored to the needs of your kitchen, whether you run a small café or a large commercial facility.
Initial Inspection
We begin with a full assessment of your extraction system, identifying all access points and any problem areas. This helps us determine the right approach for cleaning and highlight any issues that may need addressing.
Preparation
We take steps to protect your kitchen equipment and surrounding areas, ensuring the workspace remains clean and undisturbed. If required, we can also arrange to carry out the work outside of your normal operating hours.
Deep Cleaning
Using specialist degreasers and mechanical tools, we remove grease and contaminants from the canopy, ducting, extraction fan and filters. For larger or more complex systems, we may work in sections and use access panels to reach deeper areas.
Post-Clean Report
Once the clean is complete, we provide a detailed report with before-and-after photographs and notes on the work carried out. This includes confirmation that the clean meets TR19 guidelines and is suitable for inspection or insurance purposes.
Ongoing Maintenance
We can help you plan a regular cleaning schedule that fits your usage levels and keeps your system safe and compliant. Maintenance visits can be booked in advance or adjusted as your business needs change.
Frequently asked questions
How often should kitchen extract systems be cleaned?
Do I need to shut down my kitchen during the clean?
Will I receive documentation after the clean?
What areas of the system are cleaned?
Can you clean large or complex extraction systems?
What happens if I don’t have the system cleaned regularly?
Do you offer ongoing maintenance plans?
How long does the cleaning take?
