Step-By-Step Guide to Grease Hood & Exhaust Cleaning for Melbourne Kitchens

Commercial kitchens in Melbourne operate under strict food safety and fire regulations. One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, areas is grease hood and exhaust system cleaning. Over time, grease buildup in hoods, filters, ducts, and exhaust fans can become a serious fire hazard, compromise air quality, and even lead to failed health inspections.

This step-by-step guide explains how grease hood and exhaust cleaning is done, why it matters, and how often Melbourne kitchens should schedule professional cleaning.

Why Grease Hood & Exhaust Cleaning Is Critical for Commercial Kitchens

Grease hoods and exhaust systems are designed to capture smoke, grease vapours, and heat. Without regular cleaning, grease accumulates and creates risks such as:

• Fire hazards from highly flammable grease

• Failed council or health inspections

• Poor kitchen ventilation and airflow

• Persistent odours and smoke

• Unhealthy working conditions for staff

  
  

In Melbourne, councils and fire authorities expect commercial kitchens to maintain clean exhaust systems in line with Food Safety Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) and local regulations.

What Is Included in Grease Hood & Exhaust Cleaning?

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand what professional cleaning covers:

• Range hoods and canopy interiors

• Grease filters and baffles

• Exhaust ducts and internal ductwork

• Exhaust fans and motors

• Surrounding walls, ceilings, and drip trays
  

A proper clean goes far beyond wiping visible surfaces.

Step-By-Step Grease Hood & Exhaust Cleaning Process

Step 1: Pre-Inspection and Safety Preparation

Professional cleaners begin with a full system inspection, checking grease levels in:

• Hood canopy

• Filters

• Ducting

• Exhaust fan

  
  

Safety steps include:

• Turning off gas and electrical connections

• Covering cooking equipment and surfaces

• Placing grease containment sheets to prevent spills
  

This ensures both safety and cleanliness during the process.

Step 2: Removing and Cleaning Grease Filters

Grease filters are removed and soaked in industrial-grade, food-safe degreasers.

• Heavy grease is broken down using hot water and pressure washing

• Filters are thoroughly rinsed and sanitized

• Clean filters improve airflow and reduce smoke buildup
  

Clogged filters are one of the most common reasons for failed inspections.

Step 3: Deep Cleaning the Hood Canopy

The hood canopy interior and exterior are sprayed with commercial degreasing agents.

Cleaning includes:

• Interior surfaces

• Drip trays and grease collection points

• Light covers and hood edges
  

This step removes visible and hidden grease, restoring proper ventilation.

Step 4: Exhaust Duct Cleaning (The Most Critical Step)

Grease inside exhaust ducts is a major fire risk.

Professional teams use:

• Scrapers and rotary brushes

• High-pressure hot water systems

• Degreasers designed for duct interiors

  
  

The entire duct length, from hood to exhaust fan, is cleaned to ensure compliance.

Step 5: Exhaust Fan & Motor Cleaning

Exhaust fans pull grease-laden air out of the kitchen. Over time, grease coats fan blades and motors.

Cleaning includes:

• Degreasing fan blades

• Removing grease from housing units

• Ensuring smooth fan operation

  
  

Clean fans work more efficiently and reduce energy costs.

Step 6: Final Rinse, Sanitization & Inspection

Once cleaning is complete:

• All areas are rinsed

• Food-safe sanitizers are applied

• Equipment covers are removed

• Final inspection ensures no grease residue remains

  
  

Many professional cleaners also provide before-and-after photos and cleaning reports for compliance records.

How Often Should Grease Hoods & Exhausts Be Cleaned?

The frequency depends on kitchen usage:

Kitchen Type	Recommended Frequency
High-volume restaurants & hotels	Every 1-3 months
Cafés & moderate-use kitchens	Every 3-6 months
Low-volume or seasonal kitchens	Every 6-12 months

Melbourne councils and insurers may require documented cleaning schedules.

Benefits of Professional Grease Hood & Exhaust Cleaning

Hiring experts delivers long-term value:

• Improved fire safety

• Better airflow and temperature control

• Compliance with Melbourne regulations

• Cleaner, healthier kitchen environment

• Extended life of ventilation equipment

  
  

Why Melbourne Kitchens Should Rely on Professional Cleaning Services

Melbourne’s hospitality industry is highly regulated and competitive. Regular professional grease hood cleaning protects:

• Your staff

• Your customers

• Your business reputation

• Your operating license

  
  

A clean exhaust system isn’t just about compliance, it’s about running a safer, more efficient kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Grease hood and exhaust cleaning is not an optional task, it’s a critical safety and compliance requirement for commercial kitchens in Melbourne. Following a structured, professional cleaning process helps reduce risks, pass inspections, and maintain a productive kitchen environment.

If you operate a restaurant, café, or hotel kitchen, scheduling routine grease hood and exhaust cleaning is one of the smartest operational decisions you can make.

👉 Book Your Grease Hood Cleaning Today

FAQs

Is grease hood cleaning mandatory in Melbourne?

Yes. Commercial kitchens must maintain clean exhaust systems to meet fire safety and food hygiene regulations.

Can my kitchen staff clean grease hoods themselves?

Staff can clean external surfaces and filters, but ducts and exhaust fans require professional equipment and expertise.

What happens if grease hoods aren’t cleaned?

Unclean systems can cause:

• Fire outbreaks

• Fines or closure notices

• Failed inspections

• Insurance claim rejections

  
  

How long does grease hood cleaning take?

Most jobs take 2-6 hours, depending on kitchen size and grease levels.

Are the chemicals used food-safe?

Professional cleaners use food-grade, non-toxic degreasers approved for commercial kitchens.