At Cater Clean 24 Seven, commercial duct cleaning is what we do best. We work with kitchens of all sizes across the UK, and whether it’s a busy takeaway or a hospital canteen, one thing remains the same—people have questions.
To help you understand what duct cleaning involves and why it matters, we’ve put together this list of our most frequently asked questions. If you’re looking for answers—or just want peace of mind—this guide is for you.
1. Why is commercial duct cleaning important?
Commercial kitchens generate a high volume of grease and airborne particles, which accumulate in extraction systems over time. Without regular duct cleaning, this build-up becomes:
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A serious fire risk
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A potential source of bacteria and odour
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A likely cause of non-compliance with UK hygiene and safety regulations
Professional duct cleaning helps protect your staff, customers, equipment, and reputation.
2. How often should duct cleaning be carried out?
It depends on how heavily your kitchen is used. Here’s a general guide:
| Kitchen Usage | Recommended Duct Cleaning Frequency |
|---|---|
| Light Use (2–6 hrs/day) | Every 12 months |
| Moderate Use (6–12 hrs/day) | Every 6 months |
| Heavy Use (12–16 hrs/day) | Every 3 months |
These intervals are based on BSEHV11 standards, following TR19 and NAAD21 best practice guidance, which are widely recognised by insurers and enforcement bodies.
3. How do I know when my ducts need cleaning?
Here are a few signs to look out for:
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Strong grease smells or odours in the kitchen
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Reduced airflow or inefficient extraction
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Unusual noise from the ventilation system
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Visible grease or dirt on vents and canopy
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No record of a recent compliant clean
If in doubt, we offer an inspection to assess your system’s condition and advise accordingly.
4. What’s included in your duct cleaning service?
Our commercial duct cleaning includes:
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A full inspection of your kitchen extraction system
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Deep cleaning of ductwork, canopies, filters, and fan units
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Photographic evidence (before & after)
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A detailed hygiene report
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A BSEHV11-compliant certificate, following TR19 and NAAD21 guidelines
All services are delivered by trained technicians using industry-standard equipment and methods.
5. How long does duct cleaning take?
Most duct cleaning jobs take:
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4–8 hours depending on kitchen size and complexity
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Overnight cleaning options to reduce operational impact
We’ll work with you to schedule the service at a time that suits your kitchen operations.
6. Will duct cleaning disrupt my kitchen or cause a mess?
No. Our team uses protective materials, containment procedures, and careful planning to keep disruption to a minimum. We’re available for out-of-hours and overnight cleans, so you don’t need to interrupt service.
7. Do I get documentation for compliance and insurance?
Yes, we provide everything you need:
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A full post-clean hygiene report
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Photographic evidence for audit purposes
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A certificate stating your system is cleaned to BSEHV11 standard, following TR19 and NAAD21 guidance
This documentation is accepted by insurers, fire safety officers, and environmental health teams.
Have more questions?
Still unsure if your system is being cleaned correctly or what level of service is right for you? Give us a ring or drop us a message. Our team is always happy to help, whether it’s booking an inspection or just giving honest advice.
For further information on our kitchen extract cleaning and kitchen ventilation cleaning please contact us on 0203 6408 247 or email us at [email protected]