Commercial HVAC for Restaurants Kitchens

Restaurant kitchens generate significant heat, grease, smoke, and humidity during daily operations. Standard HVAC systems are not designed to safely handle these extreme loads. Specialized kitchen HVAC systems, including high-capacity ventilation, exhaust hoods, and make-up air units, are required to maintain proper airflow, ensure staff comfort, support energy efficiency, and comply with fire and safety codes.

Make-up air is fresh, tempered air introduced into the kitchen to balance the air being exhausted through hoods and ventilation systems. It prevents negative air pressure, supports proper hood operation, ensures efficient smoke and odor removal, and helps kitchens meet local building and fire code requirements. Properly designed make-up air also improves energy efficiency by reducing strain on heating and cooling systems.

Kitchen exhaust systems accumulate grease and contaminants quickly, which can reduce airflow and create a fire hazard. We recommend scheduling cleaning and inspection based on kitchen usage—typically quarterly or semi-annually. Regular cleaning not only reduces fire risk but also ensures the HVAC system operates efficiently, extends equipment life, and maintains a healthy environment for staff and customers.

Yes. Our team evaluates your current system and identifies opportunities for upgrades, such as adding make-up air units, improving ductwork, or installing higher-efficiency components. These targeted improvements can enhance system performance, increase energy efficiency, and extend equipment life, all without the cost and downtime of a full system replacement.