Deep Cleaning Extraction Hoods in South African Kitchens: A Must for Safety and Compliance

In every commercial kitchen — whether it’s a hotel, restaurant, canteen, or food production facility — extraction hoods play a crucial role. They remove heat, grease, smoke, and odours from the air, helping to keep the environment safe, cool, and compliant.

But over time, these systems collect thick layers of grease and grime that can’t be removed with surface wiping alone. That’s where professional deep cleaning becomes essential.

Why Deep Cleaning Extraction Hoods Matters

1. It’s a Legal Requirement
In South Africa, Regulation R638 under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act requires all food premises to be clean and well-maintained — and that includes extractor systems. Grease and dirt build-up in hoods and ducts can lead to contamination if not managed.

2. It Affects Insurance
Most insurers require proof that extraction systems are deep cleaned by a professional. Without this, a kitchen fire caused by grease build-up could lead to a rejected claim, leaving your business at serious financial risk.

3. It’s Critical for Safety and Operations
Grease inside extraction systems is a fire hazard. It also reduces ventilation efficiency, making kitchens hotter, more uncomfortable, and unsafe for staff. Over time, it can damage expensive equipment and cause health inspection failures.

What a Professional Deep Clean Involves

Unlike routine cleaning, a deep clean targets every internal part of the extraction system, including hard-to-reach areas.

A professional team will:

  • Remove and soak filters in powerful degreasers

  • Clean inside the canopy, ducts, vents, and fans using scraping tools and steam equipment

  • Inspect and clean the motor and fan blades

  • Empty and sanitise grease traps

  • Safely dispose of grease waste according to environmental laws

Once complete, you receive a cleaning certificate to prove compliance with health regulations and insurance requirements.

Why You Still Need Daily Cleaning

A professional deep clean doesn’t replace your kitchen team’s daily and weekly routines. These are still vital for maintaining hygiene and preventing excessive build-up between scheduled services.

Routine tasks should include:

  • Wiping exterior hood surfaces

  • Cleaning light fittings

  • Washing or replacing filters

  • Emptying grease traps regularly

Without these daily efforts, grease accumulates faster — reducing the time between deep cleans and increasing risk.

In Summary

Deep cleaning of extraction hoods isn’t optional — it’s essential.
It protects your business from fire hazards, ensures compliance with South African law, supports insurance claims, and maintains a safe environment for your staff.

FCS offers expert hygiene audits and cleaning consultancy to help you stay compliant and safe. Keep us in mind for your extraction system assessments and ensure your kitchen stays inspection-ready year-round.