Dealing with grease production is part of running any commercial kitchen. It’s a common food byproduct and needs to be controlled regularly. As it collects, it creates fire risks that could have a devastating effect on your restaurant and kitchen staff. Fortunately, there are some key strategies and maintenance tips, such as hood cleaning, that can help you manage grease efficiently and safely.

How to Control Grease in a Commercial Kitchen

1. Clear the Grease Traps

Grease is a thick, slimy substance that will coat the insides of pipes and clog them as it solidifies. For this reason, most restaurants include grease traps in their plumbing. There, grease is separated from water and contained until professionals come and clean the device. 

Grease is combustible, meaning it will burn when temperatures around it surpass 450 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why periodic cleaning is a safety priority. To keep excess grease out of the kitchen, schedule professional trap pumpings and cleanings once every one to three months, depending on your restaurant's volume and menu.

2. Reduce Grease Production

Fats and oils generate grease, but you can reduce this production by changing how you cook. Try offering customers a wider selection of broiled dishes rather than fried sides and entrees. You can also grill popular foods. 

Teach your new chefs to use less oil or fat when preparing food. You can also steam vegetables and serve lean meats that produce less fat. It’s a great opportunity to expand your menu and introduce patrons to new dishes.

3. Keep Exhaust Filters Clean

The range hood above the cooking area helps discharge smoke and fumes, but it can also catch a lot of fats and grease. This creates another fire risk. To protect your kitchen and staff, change filters once every two weeks and schedule a professional hood cleaning once per month. During hood cleaning, fire specialists use chemicals to clean the exhaust fan blades and interior to remove built-up grease.

Keep your kitchen safe from grease fires by working with Fire Protection Specialists. With locations in La Crosse and Eau Claire, WI, these professionals provide diligent hood cleaning services and also offer high-quality fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems for commercial customers. Going forward, they'll provide the full services and maintenance needed to keep your safety equipment working smoothly. Call (800) 658-9463 to schedule an inspection, and visit their website to learn more about their products and services.