Many restaurant owners don’t realize their exhaust system needs service until problems appear. Some of the most common warning signs include excessive smoke, strong odors, sticky residue around the hood, or heat building up in the kitchen.

If smoke lingers instead of being pulled upward, it often means filters, ducts, or the exhaust fan are restricted by grease buildup. This not only affects ventilation but creates unsafe working conditions and increases fire risk.

Other signs include visible grease dripping from filters, dark staining inside the hood, or loud or unbalanced exhaust fans on the rooftop. These issues indicate the system is no longer operating efficiently and requires professional attention.

Routine cleaning prevents small issues from turning into major safety and compliance problems