Common Mistakes to Avoid During Air Filter Replacements in Industrial Kitchens

Kitchen ventilation and HVAC systems are paramount for commercial kitchens and restaurant businesses to maintain fresh air quality and a pristine environment. Among the several components that ensure hygiene and cleanliness are minute details like air filtration.

 

The configuration of the air filter can make or break the exhaust systems that drive away greasy smoke from the cooktop. All the smoke and vapour that travels past the filter and ducting systems leaves some residue grease that requires periodic cleaning and filter replacement.

A restaurant or food business that fails to ensure timely and proper airfilter replacement in London could find themselves at odds with TR19 compliance and getting insurance coverage.

 

However, despite their importance, the replacement of air filters in industrial kitchens is often overlooked or done incorrectly, leading to potential hazards and inefficiencies. This article addresses the common mistakes in air filter replacement in industrial kitchens and explores ways to avoid them.

Not Taking Timely Maintenance Seriously

 

A common scenario is the typical busy restaurant, where the restaurant owner mainly makes the cleaning and maintenance decisions. In so many cases, restaurant owners pursue the notion that, as long as the extractor is working fine, it is okay to delay the air filter maintenance. They don’t follow a scheduled time.

 

This could be a big mistake because when the air filters push the performance despite the clogging, the machine simply deteriorates. The airflow might seem fine, but when audited, it will show filtration inefficiency.

 

The right thing to do is follow “manufacturer-recommended replacements” at timely intervals. It is good practice to have a conscious monitoring system for the equipment to establish a comprehensive maintenance schedule. It is a great decision to partner with a contractor, who can conduct scheduled inspections and necessary replacements of air filters in an organized manner.

 

Having the Wrong Type of Air Filter for Your Commercial Extractor Hood

 

Can you relate to the scenario— you need to replace the air filters for the extractor hood in your industrial kitchen and you search “air filterreplacement near me in London” and select a contractor that gives you the lowest cost and quickest service?

 

You have a “good quality” air filter and the contractor installs it. Job done.

But wait! Are you sure they installed the right type of filter?

 

You need to keep track of the right type of filtration that you put into your extractor, which is often purpose-built filters designed specifically for particular industrial kitchen environments. Again, it is a good practice to connect with industrial ventilation professionals to determine the most suitable options based on the kitchen's size, equipment, and cooking methods. Below are the most common types of filters used in industrial extractors: 

 

●     Mesh filters are constructed from layers of stainless steel or aluminum mesh. Stubborn grease and tiny sticky particles are effectively captured by these filters. But they need rigorous and frequent cleaning.

 

●     Baffle filters:              These filters collect smoke and grease particles using several layers of metal baffles. Robust and effective, they are easier to clean regularly but can be more expensive in sophisticated ventilation systems.

 

●     HEPA Filters: Allergens, dust, and certain odours can all be effectively captured by High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. They might need to be replaced more frequently and might not be appropriate for collecting grease.

 

Getting Installation By Local Electricians And Not Certified Professionals

 

Improper installation of air filters is another prevalent mistake that can compromise their effectiveness. Filters must be installed correctly to ensure a tight seal and proper airflow through the ventilation system. Loose or improperly fitted filters can allow unfiltered air to bypass the system, leading to contamination of the kitchen environment and decreased efficiency.

Solution: Train kitchen staff or hire qualified professionals to handle the installation of air filters. Follow manufacturer instructions carefully, ensuring filters are securely fastened and sealed to prevent air leaks.

 

Not Having A Monitoring Or Inspection Schedule In Place

Many kitchens make the mistake of neglecting to monitor filter performance regularly. Even after installation, filters can become clogged or damaged over time, diminishing their effectiveness. Without regular monitoring, issues such as airflow restrictions or filter degradation may go unnoticed until they cause significant problems.

 

Solution: Implement a monitoring system to regularly assess filter performance and condition. This may involve visual inspections, pressure measurements, or air quality testing. Establish clear criteria for when filters need replacement or maintenance based on observed performance indicators.

 

Have a Safe and Hygienic Restaurant Environment— Partner with an Industrial Ventilation Maintenance Company and Rest Assured

 

Restaurant owners and commercial kitchen operators need to ensure clean and hygienic air quality at all times. Moreover, it is also essential to save energy and extend the lifespan of the ventilation equipment. While it may be very easily available to get air filter replacement in London, it is not a single thing that works for the entire ventilation maintenance. It is only a part of several steps to meet BESS’s TR19 standards.

 

It is highly recommended for commercial kitchen owners to partner with an industrial kitchen ventilation company that will offer a one-time solution for all the requirements. From using the right type of filter to ensuring safe and proper installation and adequate performance checking to adhere to TR19 and other regulations, having professional and planned maintenance services ensures that you are protected from making expensive mistakes regarding your kitchen infrastructure, be it air filters or anything else. The choice is yours.