Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should commercial kitchen hoods be cleaned?
NFPA 96 guidelines recommend that commercial kitchen hoods and exhaust systems be cleaned every 3 to 6 months, depending on cooking volume. High-volume restaurants and bars may require monthly service, while lower-volume kitchens may need less frequent cleanings.
Why is hood cleaning important for restaurants and bars?
Hood cleaning removes grease and buildup from your exhaust system, which reduces fire hazards, improves airflow, and ensures compliance with health and fire codes. It also helps your business pass inspections and avoid costly fines.
What areas do you serve?
Express Mechanical Cleaning Services is based in Frederick, MD, and proudly serves restaurants, bars, and facilities across Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C.
Are your hood cleaning services NFPA compliant?
Yes — all of our technicians follow NFPA 96 standards, ensuring your hood, ducts, and fans are thoroughly cleaned and compliant with fire safety codes. We also provide photo documentation of every job for your inspection records.
What does a complete hood cleaning include?
Our total kitchen exhaust system cleaning covers the hood, filters, vertical and horizontal ductwork, and rooftop fan. We degrease every component to restore safe airflow and reduce the risk of fire.
Do you work around restaurant schedules?
Yes — we offer flexible scheduling, including evenings and off-hours, so we don’t disrupt your business operations. Most jobs are completed in 1–2 days depending on system size and grease buildup.
