The Importance of Regular Kitchen Extract Cleaning for Compliance & Health

Running a commercial kitchen comes with a long list of responsibilities — from food safety to fire prevention and everything in between. One crucial task that’s sometimes overlooked is regular cleaning of your mechanical ventilation and air conditioning systems. Here’s why keeping on top of it isn’t just smart — it’s absolutely essential.

It’s the Law

Did you know an annual inspection, cleaning, and sanitising of mechanical ventilation and air conditioning systems is a legal requirement under the New Zealand Building Act? Without it, you can’t maintain a valid Building Warrant of Fitness. Staying compliant protects your business and keeps your doors open.

Keep Your Insurance Valid

Insurance policies often include clauses that exclude claims if negligence contributes to the cause or spread of a fire. Inadequate cleaning can be seen as negligence. The Insurers Loss Prevention Council recommends a thorough professional clean of your entire ventilation system at least once a year to avoid issues that could void your insurance cover.

Protect Health and Safety

A dirty ventilation system isn’t just a fire hazard — it’s a health hazard too. Grease and oil build-up in canopies and ducting create perfect conditions for bacteria, cockroaches, rodents, and foul odours. Worse still, contaminated oil can seep back through filters and overflow onto kitchen surfaces and food, endangering your staff and customers alike. A clean exhaust system helps maintain good air quality — and peace of mind.

Save on Equipment Costs

Grease and debris don’t just look bad — they’re destructive. Build-up can damage sensitive components like fan units, gears, and electrical systems. Fat can cause motors to burn out, while oil can break down seals, leading to corrosion, blockages, and leaks. Oil and fat blown onto rooftops can even damage paintwork. Regular cleaning helps avoid expensive repairs, replacements, and costly downtime.

Lower Your Energy Bills

A clogged ventilation or exhaust system can’t draw air effectively, meaning it must work harder and longer to do its job. The result? Higher energy consumption and bigger power bills. Keeping your system clean helps it run efficiently — and keeps your costs down.

Reduce Overall Cleaning Costs

Leaving your kitchen exhaust system until it’s heavily soiled makes cleaning a long, difficult, and costly process. Regular maintenance is far quicker, easier, and much more cost-effective. Keeping walls, ceilings, hoods, ducts, and fans clean helps prevent problems before they start — saving you money in the long run.

Regular cleaning of your kitchen ventilation system isn’t just a regulatory box to tick — it’s a vital step in protecting your business, your staff, and your customers.

Ready to schedule your next clean? Talk to the experts and keep your kitchen safe, compliant, and efficient.