Access Panels Reduce Maintenance and Cleaning Costs
Out of the 3 main parts (Hood, Duct, Fan) of a kitchen exhaust system the duct is usually the most problematic. This results when access panels have not been installed.
With the duct work running above the hood and up through the ceiling – it is literally out-of-sight, out-of-mind. It’s critical that duct work has the proper amount of access panels in the proper place.
Because Grease Masters knows that the vast majority of systems are not fully accessible or have been neglected, we offer a complete line and installation of access panels.
NFPA #96 1-3.1.3 code states “All interior surfaces of the exhaust system shall be reasonably accessible for the cleaning and inspection purposes.”
NFPA #96 also states:
- Access panels openings are required every 12 feet (3.7 m) and at every change in direction of horizontal duct work, unless the duct is large enough for personnel entry (approximately 24” x 24”).
- Openings are required within 18 inches (457.2 mm) of hoods containing dampers, which block the opening of the duct (which includes most water-wash type hoods).
- Opening in vertical ducts are to be on every floor or on the top of the vertical riser if personnel entry is possible.
- Exhaust fans with duct work connected to both sides must have access within 3 feet (0.92 m) on each side of the fan.
Access panels are essential to maintaining and cleaning a commercial kitchen exhaust system. If you are not sure about the make up of your system, or whether or not your system may need access panels, call us.
Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Access Panel Installation in St. Charles, MO
We can install the correct access panels to get your system in compliance and keep your business safe.