Maintenance
5 Signs Your Grease Extract System Needs Professional Cleaning
Don't wait for an inspection failure or insurance issue. Here are five warning signs that your kitchen extract system is overdue for a professional clean.
Bright Hygiene • 3 min read
1. Visible Grease Build-Up on Canopy Surfaces
If you can see grease accumulating on the canopy hood, the inside of the ductwork is almost certainly worse. Surface grease is the visible tip of a much larger problem hidden behind panels and inside ducts.
A sticky, yellowed canopy isn't just unsightly. It's a direct indicator that the system is overdue for a professional deep clean.
2. Reduced Airflow or Extraction Performance
When kitchen staff start complaining that the extraction isn't working properly, or you notice more steam, smoke, or heat lingering in the kitchen than usual, grease build-up in the ductwork or fan is likely restricting airflow.
Reduced extraction makes the kitchen uncomfortable, increases energy costs as fans work harder, and creates a poor working environment that can affect staff retention.
3. Persistent Unpleasant Odours
Old grease deposits decompose over time, producing unpleasant smells that no amount of surface cleaning will fix. If your kitchen has a lingering greasy smell even after thorough cleaning of cooking surfaces and floors, the extract system itself is the source.
These odours can also transfer into dining areas, affecting customer experience.
4. Grease Dripping from Ductwork or Fan Units
This is a serious warning sign. Grease dripping from joints, seams, or the fan unit means the system is heavily contaminated. Dripping grease is a fire risk, a hygiene hazard, and a clear sign of neglect.
If you notice grease drips, arrange a professional cleaning as soon as possible. Don't wait for the next scheduled service.
5. You Can't Remember the Last Time It Was Cleaned
If there's no record of when the extract system was last professionally cleaned, it's overdue. TR19 Grease requires documented cleaning histories, and insurers expect evidence of regular maintenance.
Even if the system looks acceptable from the outside, hidden grease deposits in ductwork can build up to dangerous levels over time. A professional survey will tell you exactly where you stand and what needs doing.
If any of these signs sound familiar, contact Bright Hygiene for a free survey. We'll assess your system, recommend the right course of action, and get you back on track with a compliant cleaning schedule.
