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Cleaning Baffle Filters

chef in kitchenTo maintain an efficient and healthy working environment in the kitchen, it is very important to ensure that the baffle filters in the canopy hood are regularly cleaned. This goes a long way to not only ensure no clogging in the filters, but it also helps to cut down on utility bills as well as repair and maintenance costs.

What are Baffle Filters?

Baffle filters are a major component of a kitchen’s ventilation and exhaust system. They are usually manufactured from either 430 stainless steel, aluminum or mild steel. Baffle filters are found in the visible part of a canopy hood facing down to the cooking equipment.

How do Baffle Filters Work?

Baffle filters help to force grease saturated air to change direction quickly and repeatedly as it rises through the filter. Because the grease droplets are unable to change direction as rapidly as the air carrying them, they condense on the metal blades and then drain into the filter. When the grease is filtered into a tray, it ensures that there is no build up which can easily hinder airflow and the overall functioning of the filter over time.

Why Baffle Filters?

  • In the event of a fire or flame up from the cooking equipment, baffle filters block the flames from spreading.
  • They help to ensure that air is pulled evenly throughout the hood canopy.
  • Baffle filters are low maintenance compared to other types of filters.
  • They are dishwasher safe.
  • Made of stainless steel and are therefore very durable.

How to Clean Baffle Filters.

Depending on the cooking volume of a particular kitchen, cleaning the baffle filters should be done either daily, weekly or once a month. Busy establishments like restaurants should consider cleaning the baffle filters daily or at least once every two days to ensure they are functioning at optimum levels at all times.

There following are methods that can be employed to effectively clean baffle filters:

Hand washing:

This is also referred to as power washing. It is a very effective way of cleaning baffle filters.

  • The first step is to ensure the baffle filter is removed from the hood safely.
  • The filter is then placed in a sink full of warm soapy water.
  • Using a non-abrasive sponge or scrubber, the grease is then washed off the filter. It is important to ensure that no bleach or harsh chemicals are used in cleaning baffle filters as these can easily corrode the metal.
  • After the filter is thoroughly cleaned, it can then be dried and reinstalled for continued use.

Dishwashing:

Most baffle filters can be cleaned using the dishwasher. This method works especially well with hinged hood filters. These are the steps to follow when cleaning baffle filters using the dishwasher:

  • Remove the baffle filter from the hood.
  • Open it and then place it in a high temperature dishwasher.
  • Ensure the soap compartments of the dishwasher are filled. Again, no bleaches or harsh chemicals should be used as they can corrode the metal.
  • Run the washing cycle.
  • After the washing cycle is complete, check the filter to ensure all grease residual is completely removed.
  • Dry the filter completely, then reinstall it in the hood for use.

Soaking Baffle Filters:

Another easy way of cleaning baffle filters is the soaking method. This method is preferred because it is not labour intensive and also helps to save on time. To effectively clean the baffle filters through soaking, it is important to invest in a hood filter soak tank. These are the steps to follow:

  • Fill the soak tank with water. The water should go up to about 6 inches below the top of the soak tank.
  • Add a metal-safe cleaner that is specifically designed for baffle filters. This cleaner should be non-corrosive. The recommended amount should be 4 ounces of liquid cleaner, or 1 cup of granular cleaner per a gallon of water.
  • Safely remove the baffle filter from the hood. Ensure to wipe off any excess grease using a paper towel.
  • Place the filter in the soak tank and allow to soak overnight. Up to six baffle filters can be soaked in one soak tank at a time.
  • Remove the filters from the soak tank in the morning. Rinse them properly.
  • Dry them well and reinstall them into the hood.

Cleaning baffle filters often between services ensures that the people working in the kitchen are not exposed to a dangerous working environment. It also ensures that there is no excess heat that can be physically and mentally draining for anyone working in the kitchen. It is important that regular cleaning of baffle filters is done, as doing so not only makes the kitchen an enjoyable place to work in, but also complies with the Fire regulations.

 

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