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What is the Best Exhaust Fan for a Kitchen?
Ventilation is extremely important for commercial kitchens. Not only does it control the smell of cooking and ensure fresh air, but it reduces the risk of fire as well. It does this by taking grease particles out of the area so that they can't ignite.
Because of this, building codes require adequate commercial kitchen ventilation. This typically involves the use of a kitchen fan that is made for this purpose. The fan may be paired with an air intake fan to ensure the proper replacement of the exhaust air.
Which Exhaust Fans are Needed?
An exhaust fan kitchen can be mounted above the ceiling or in a wall, but in most cases, the ceiling type is preferred. Hot air, hot grease, and smoke all naturally rise. Therefore, it makes sense to use a fan that pulls air from the ceiling. The actual motors for such fans are often installed on the roof. These are sometimes known as "upblast" fans. Kitchen utility ventilator fans are typically used for venting through the ceiling.
That said, not every restaurant has the luxury of a top-floor location. Then, one of the walls may be the only place a fan can go. Kitchen wall exhaust fans can lead directly to the outside, or they can be connected to ducts that make the connection. Buyers also have the choice of kitchen wall exhaust fans with shutters or without them. Fans with shutters close up when they are not in use, which can save on power bills and help keep animals or insects from coming through.
Commercial kitchens also need vented duct hood fans. These are situated right over ranges and ovens to capture hot, greasy air before the grease can land on surrounding items. Unlike residential range hoods, the ones in commercial kitchens aren't for show or just to catch cooking odors. They serve the important purpose of controlling the levels of flammable grease present in the kitchen and its air.
Finding the Best Fan for Your Kitchen
Whether you go for a ceiling-mounted fan or a kitchen wall vent fan, there are some things you should always have on your checklist. Look for one that is UL listed and has a good warranty. UL listing means that the device is electrically safe, while a long warranty is a sign that the fan will be durable enough to last.
Next, make sure the fan meets the needs of the intended location. Those that are meant for ceilings won't work in walls, and vice versa. Also, pay attention to whether or not the fan needs to be installed with ductwork. Some types go directly through the wall, with no ducts involved, and won't fit with a duct system. Meanwhile, the type meant to be connected to ducts won't work properly with a direct-through-wall installation.
Finally, consider the size of your kitchen. Calculate your air exchange requirements based on its volume, and get the fan(s) that match it best. Doing this ensures that your needs are met, while also keeping energy from being wasted on overly-large ventilation systems.
Visit Industrial Fans Direct for kitchen exhaust fans that can be used for commercial or residential applications!