Grease Air Filters: Everything You Need to Know

These essential components might not always get the attention they deserve, but they play a critical role in maintaining cleanliness, safety, and air quality in kitchens. Let’s dive into what grease air filters are, the different types available, and how they’re useful in solving common air filtration problems.

 

What Are Grease Air Filters?

Grease air filters are designed to capture grease particles and other contaminants from the air, particularly in environments where cooking or industrial processes produce airborne grease and oil. These filters prevent grease-laden air from circulating through ventilation systems and causing damage or safety hazards.

 

Why Is Grease Dangerous in Our Air?

Fire Hazard

Grease is highly flammable. When grease particles are suspended in the air, they pose a serious fire risk. Over time, if enough grease accumulates in ventilation systems, ducts, or even on surfaces, it can easily ignite when exposed to heat or flames. This is a significant concern in commercial kitchens, where cooking temperatures can reach high levels. In fact, kitchen fires caused by grease are one of the leading causes of fires in restaurants and food establishments.

Air Quality Issues

Grease in the air can degrade the quality of the air you breathe. Grease particles can trap other contaminants, such as smoke, fumes, and odours, leading to unpleasant smells and reduced indoor air quality. This can be especially problematic in indoor spaces, where people are spending prolonged periods of time, as exposure to these particles may lead to respiratory issues, discomfort, or even long-term health concerns, especially for those with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Equipment and System Damage

Grease build-up in ventilation systems, such as exhaust fans and ducts, can cause long-term damage. Grease particles can clog filters, fans, and other components, making the system less efficient - leading to overheating, increased wear and tear on the equipment, and ultimately, costly repairs or replacements. Over time, grease build-up can also reduce airflow, causing ventilation systems to become ineffective, which further exacerbates air quality issues.

Increased Cleaning Efforts

When grease settles on surfaces like walls, ceilings, and even floors, it becomes a sticky mess that attracts dust, dirt, and other debris. This makes cleaning more difficult and time-consuming. In commercial kitchens, grease build-up on surfaces is a health code violation and can lead to inspection failures or fines. It also creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which can pose a health risk.

 

Types of Grease Air Filters

There are several types of grease air filters available, each suited for different applications:

Metal Mesh Filters

Effective at trapping larger grease particles. Their main function is to reduce the carryover of grease from the cooking area thus reducing the risk of contamination to other areas.

We offer three options for the frame/mesh: stainless steel, aluminium and galvanised steel.  Each filter is supplied with collapsible carry handles to make installation and removal easier, quicker and safer.

These filters can be gently cleaned, to extend their life, by rising with hot water and a mild detergent or being soaked in a mild detergent solution and rinsed in clean water.  They are easily reusable by completely drying before being re-installed into the extraction hood or holding frame. 

Baffle Filters

Our baffle grease filters are intended for use in ventilation systems within commercial kitchens and food preparation areas, where their primary function is to reduce the possibility that flames could travel from the cooking or preparation area into the extraction ducting. Highly durable and compliant with fire safety standards.

Our baffle plates are manufactured from rolled stainless steel which are welded onto a sub frame which in turn is wrapped within the stainless-steel outer frame. Made of interlocking metal channels that force air to change direction as it passes through, trapping grease in the process.

These filters can also be gently cleaned, to extend their life, and easily reused and reinstalled.

Dual Premium Filters

Our dual premium are combination filters utilising both baffle technology and mesh impingement to provide optimum grease removal and flame protection in a kitchen canopy.

Made from stainless steel with Classified A Flame Resistance Test.

These filters can also be gently cleaned, to extend their life, and easily reused and reinstalled.

 

How Are Grease Air Filters Useful?

Grease air filters serve several critical purposes:

Fire Safety

By capturing grease particles before they accumulate in ducts, these filters reduce the risk of fires. Grease is highly flammable, and build-up in ventilation systems can be a major hazard.

Improved Air Quality

They help keep the air clean by removing grease, odours, and other contaminants, creating a healthier and more pleasant environment.

Equipment Longevity

Grease build-up can damage exhaust fans, ductwork, and other HVAC components. Filters protect these systems, reducing maintenance and repair costs.

Regulatory Compliance

Many health and safety codes require grease filters in commercial kitchens to ensure proper ventilation and fire safety.

 

How to Incorporate Grease Air Filters

Whether you’re managing a commercial kitchen, an industrial facility, or even a high-performance residential kitchen, incorporating grease air filters is essential. Here’s how:

Assess Your Needs:

Determine the type and intensity of grease production in your environment. For example, a restaurant kitchen with high-volume frying will need more robust filtration than a small café.

Choose the Right Filter:

Select a filter type based on your needs, space, and budget. Metal mesh or baffle filters are common choices for heavy-duty use, while carbon-activated filters are excellent for odour control.

Install Properly:

Ensure filters are installed in the right location - typically in the kitchen hood or exhaust system. Proper placement is key to maximising their effectiveness.

Regular Maintenance:

Clean or replace filters as recommended. Neglecting maintenance can reduce efficiency and create safety hazards.

Consult:

If you’re unsure about the best filtration system for your needs, where or how to install, we’re here to help. You can contact us for professional and specialist advice unique to your needs.

 

Conclusion

Grease air filters may not be the flashiest part of a ventilation system, but their importance can’t be overstated. They provide essential protection against fire hazards, improve air quality, and keep your equipment running smoothly. By understanding the different types of grease filters and how to incorporate them, you can create a safer, cleaner, and more efficient environment.

Whether you’re outfitting a bustling restaurant or upgrading your home kitchen, investing in the right grease air filtration system is a decision that pays off in both safety and savings.