Ventilation in a restaurant is key to safety. Understanding some basic requirements ensures your commercial kitchen meets industry standards. While a commercial HVAC contractor will help you design a ventilation network that’s up to code, here’s an overview of a few necessities and tips to help you get started.

What to Know About Ventilation Requirements in Commercial Kitchens

Ventilation hoods should go over every cooking appliance to direct smoke and heat outside via ductwork. These units must be installed by an HVAC contractor, and might include automatic fire suppression systems. How much air volume each hood should be able to handle varies between the type of appliance, such as fryers and stoves, and the food being cooked. Greasier foods require more ventilation.

You may also need an air makeup unit to work with your standard HVAC system. Without a makeup system, your ventilation and standard HVAC units would not be able to pump enough fresh air into the kitchen for the exhaust vents to operate. This would result in unsafe smoke, grease, and heat buildup.

How You Can Improve Your Ventilation

Ventilation improves with exhaust fans. Opt for wall-mounted hoods, which are more effective than overhanging ones. If you use overhanging hoods, position the vents as low over your appliances as possible.

All appliances should be positioned against walls rather than on a center island. This will direct smoke upwards into the vent hoods instead of throughout the space.

It’s also critical to stay on top of HVAC repairs and maintenance for your primary and makeup systems to keep them working efficiently and prevent breakdowns. Get routine commercial HVAC services that include ductwork inspections and cleaning to eliminate grease buildup and prevent smoke from escaping the ductwork through cracks or holes.

If you need an experienced HVAC contractor to build your restaurant’s ventilation system, turn to Climatech Mechanical Heating & Air Conditioning Services in New Haven County, CT. With over 26 years in business, they have certified technicians and hold several licenses and certifications, including ones for heating, cooling, refrigeration, electrical, and solar work. Their commercial services cover HVAC repairs and ventilation, including air makeup unit and exhaust fan installations. Learn about their commercial ventilation services online, and call (203) 269-1600 to get started.