BAFFLE HOOD FILTER CLEANING in the DECARBONATOR
In the 3-Compartment sink
In the Dishwashing machine
A well-known chain restaurant cleaned a dirty hood filter in the DECARBONATOR and removed 3 lbs of Grease
To determine how much Fat, Lipids, Oils and Grease (FLOG) is removed by soaking in the DECARBONATOR
Method:
We took a dirty Hood Filter from a bank of filters and weighed it 5.40 lbs
Then we soaked it in the DECARBONATOR for 30 minutes 5.07 lbs
Findings:
There was a difference of more than 1/3 lbs cleaned
Conclusion:
Hood Filters soaked in the DECARBONATOR removes Fats, Lipids, Oils and Grease
Introduction:
Clean and well-maintained hood filters are crucial for the efficient operation and safety of commercial kitchens. This case study explores the effectiveness of the DECARBONATOR®, a specialized cleaning system designed to remove hidden Fats, Lipids, Oils, and Grease (FLOG) from hood filters that conventional cleaning methods may leave behind.
Background:
In any commercial kitchen, the presence of FLOG in the air can lead to a variety of issues. FLOG particles can coat surfaces, including floors, posing a significant slip and fall hazard. Additionally, FLOG buildup can cause the HVAC system to work harder, leading to increased utility expenses. Conventional cleaning methods, such as manual scrubbing and using a 3-Compartment Sink or Dishwasher, may not effectively remove all FLOG, especially from the baffles inside hood filters.
Objective:
The primary objective of this case study was to determine the effectiveness of the DECARBONATOR® in removing hidden FLOG from a hood filter compared to conventional cleaning methods.
Methodology:
A hood filter from a commercial kitchen was selected for the study.
The initial weight of the hood filter was recorded before any cleaning.
The filter was subjected to a conventional cleaning method, which involved soaking it in a hot water solution of degreaser and manual scrubbing for 15 minutes.
After the conventional cleaning, the filter was weighed again to assess how much FLOG was removed by this method.
The same filter was then soaked in the DECARBONATOR® for a specified duration of 30 minutes.
After the DECARBONATOR® cleaning, the filter was weighed again to determine the amount of additional FLOG removed.
Results:
The results of the study are as follows:
Initial weight of the hood filter: [7.94 lbs]
Weight of the filter after conventional cleaning: [7.72 lbs]
Weight of FLOG removed by conventional cleaning: [.22 lbs]
Weight of the filter after DECARBONATOR® cleaning: [7.5 lbs]
Additional FLOG removed by DECARBONATOR®: [.22 lbs]
Discussion:
The study revealed that the DECARBONATOR® was highly effective in removing additional FLOG from the hood filter. This is a significant finding because conventional cleaning methods left behind a substantial amount of hidden FLOG, as evidenced by the increase in filter weight after DECARBONATOR® cleaning. This hidden FLOG could lead to safety hazards and increased HVAC energy consumption if not properly addressed.
Conclusion:
Based on the results of this case study, it can be concluded that the DECARBONATOR® is an efficient and cost-effective method for cleaning hood filters. It not only removes visible FLOG but also tackles the hidden FLOG within the baffles of the filters. By using the DECARBONATOR®, commercial kitchens can maintain a safe environment, reduce slip and fall risks, and save on utility expenses, all while minimizing labor and maintenance costs.
Commercial kitchen operators are encouraged to consider incorporating the DECARBONATOR® into their hood filter cleaning routines to ensure a clean and safe kitchen environment.
Having clean hood filters in a commercial kitchen is critically important for several reasons:
Fire Safety: One of the primary reasons for maintaining clean hood filters is to reduce the risk of fires. Commercial kitchens generate a significant amount of grease, smoke, and other airborne particles during cooking. If these particles accumulate on the hood filters, they become a fire hazard. Grease buildup is highly flammable and can ignite if exposed to high temperatures, causing a potentially catastrophic fire that can spread quickly throughout the kitchen and the establishment.
Air Quality: Clean hood filters help maintain good indoor air quality in the kitchen. As filters become clogged with grease and other contaminants, the ventilation system’s efficiency decreases, leading to poor air circulation. This can result in increased levels of smoke, odors, and potentially harmful airborne particles in the kitchen. Poor air quality not only affects the health and comfort of kitchen staff but can also be noticed by customers, impacting their dining experience.
Efficiency of Ventilation System: Hood filters are a crucial component of the kitchen’s ventilation system. They capture and trap grease and particles, preventing them from accumulating in the ductwork and exhaust fan. If filters are not cleaned regularly, airflow can be restricted, causing the ventilation system to work harder and less efficiently. This inefficiency can lead to increased energy consumption and higher operating costs.
Compliance with Regulations: Many jurisdictions have strict health and safety regulations for commercial kitchens. Regular cleaning of hood filters is often a legal requirement to ensure compliance with these regulations. Failure to maintain clean hood filters can result in fines, penalties, or even closure of the establishment.
Longevity of Equipment: Clean hood filters contribute to the longevity of the entire ventilation system. When filters are clogged with grease and debris, the exhaust fan has to work harder to maintain proper airflow. This extra strain can lead to premature wear and tear on the fan, ductwork, and other components, potentially necessitating costly repairs or replacements.
Prevention of Contamination: Clean hood filters prevent grease and other contaminants from being recirculated into the kitchen environment. This helps keep food, utensils, surfaces, and appliances cleaner, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and maintaining a hygienic food preparation area.
In summary, having clean hood filters in a commercial kitchen is crucial for fire safety, indoor air quality, efficient ventilation, regulatory compliance, equipment longevity, and overall cleanliness. Regular maintenance and cleaning of hood filters should be a top priority for any commercial kitchen to ensure a safe and healthy environment for both staff and customers.
8952 AleSmith Ct, Suite D
San Diego, CA 92126, USA
