Rooftop Exhaust Fans and Grease Containment: What Denver Kitchens Should Know

The exhaust fan is the last part of your kitchen exhaust system, and the one most people never see. On many Denver restaurants it sits on the roof, out of sight and out of mind, until grease starts dripping or a landlord or inspector asks about it. This article explains what rooftop fans do, why grease collects there and what grease containment means.

What a rooftop exhaust fan does

The fan pulls air from the hood through the duct and pushes it out of the building. Because that air carries grease, a film can collect on the fan blades, housing and anything nearby. Over time the fan can become less efficient and grease can drip from the housing onto the roof surface.

Why fans need regular cleaning

• Grease on the blades and housing can reduce airflow.
• Buildup around the fan adds to the fire risk at the end of the system.
• Grease on a roof can stain, damage roofing and attract pests.
• Inspectors and insurers may look at the fan and the area around it.

What grease containment is

Grease containment is a way to catch grease that leaves the fan so it does not end up on the roof. Common approaches include a grease trap or collection device on the fan or a containment pan below it, though the right setup depends on the fan type and the roof. Containment is generally recommended and in some situations expected; confirm what applies to your building with your landlord, your fire inspector and your roofing contractor.

Hinged fans and access

Some fans are mounted on hinges so they can tip up for cleaning, and some are not. Fans without a hinge or with poor access can be harder to clean fully. If you are planning a new installation or replacement, ask whether the fan can be accessed for cleaning without damaging the roof or the duct.

Your landlord and your roof

In many Denver buildings, the roof belongs to the landlord, and a lease may restrict who can go up there and what they can do. Before a cleaning, find out who controls roof access, whether insurance paperwork is needed and whether the roof has any weight or protection limits. Report any damage you notice so it does not become a dispute later.

Signs of a problem at the fan

• Greasy stains on the roof around the fan.
• Grease dripping from the housing or onto walls below.
• Unusual noise or vibration from the fan.
• Reduced pull at the hood or odors in the dining room.
• Pests or birds around the rooftop unit.

Weather and safety

Denver weather can be a factor. Snow, ice and wind can make a roof unsafe, and a visit may need to be rescheduled. A reputable provider can tell you how they handle roof safety and what conditions would delay the work.

Plan the fan into your schedule

Cleaning the fan along with the hood and duct keeps the whole system on the same schedule. Ask any provider whether the rooftop fan and the containment are included in the quote, and what they do if the fan cannot be reached.

Denver Hood Cleaning Co cleans rooftop exhaust fans with grease containment in mind. Call (714) 333-0178 to talk through your roof.