An improperly cleaned grease exhaust system is not just a sticky mess. It’s a bomb that could go up in flames at any time. Do you know what to look for when hiring a grease exhaust cleaning company? Do you know what questions to ask? If you don’t know, then you might not get the service you paid for. Or worse, your exhaust system could be a hidden fire hazard. Follow these tips to ensure you are working with a quality company:
1. NFPA 96 Compliance
Guidelines for cleaning grease exhaust systems are established by the National Fire Protection Agency. The current regulations are called “NFPA 96”. Any company you hire to service your grease exhaust system should be fully familiar with all aspects of these guidelines, and they should be prepared to follow them fully. This includes cleaning all parts of your system down to bare metal, as well as following specific cleaning frequencies for every type of kitchen.
2. Comprehensive Service
Believe it or not, not every company will service every part of your exhaust system. It’s not just your exhaust hood that is a fire hazard. Grease will accumulate in your filters, duct, and roof exhaust fan as well. Clean Air Company will always clean all areas of your system, and we have specialized tools to do so. Any area that is not fully cleaned could be a danger to your facility.
3. Proper Tools and Techniques
With nearly 20 years of experience, we have tried and tested countless pieces of equipment, and we have serviced every type of exhaust system. From magnetic duct scrapers and special power washer nozzles, to industrial grade degreasing solution, we have every tool to clean your exhaust system the right way.
4. Proof of Insurance
We work hard to make sure accidents don’t happen. But we carry a large general liability policy for your peace of mind. Without proper insurance, any damage or injuries that occur during the cleaning could fall on your shoulders. Many companies choose not to protect themselves and their customers with insurance. Some companies simply can’t afford to. Without proper insurance, any damage or injuries that occur during the cleaning could fall on your shoulders. Clean Air Company would never operate with that risk, and we maintain a comprehensive insurance policy no matter what.
5. Post-service Documentation
Most companies will provide you with only a generic invoice after completing a service. We feel that you deserve much more than this. During the course of cleaning your full exhaust system, our technicians will perform a complete inspection. Your final invoice will contain the results of this inspection, including any fire hazards, health hazards, or components needing repair. They will also fill out a checklist verifying that every part of your system was thoroughly cleaned. In addition, we always place a sticker on your exhaust hood, confirming the date of service. If the fire marshal or health inspector ask about your exhaust system cleaning, you will have thorough documentation to show them.
6. Before and after photos
How can you be sure that your entire exhaust system was cleaned properly? Your cleaning company might assure you that it was, but how can you know for sure? We offer photos of all parts of your system, both before and after your cleaning service. This includes photos of your hood, filters, ductwork, and exhaust fan. So you can have peace of mind that the service was performed properly and completely.
Are you ready to hire a kitchen exhaust cleaning company that follows every one of these points? Contact us today for a free quote.
