Frequently Asked Questions – Big Shine Hood Cleaning
How often should I have my hood system cleaned?
Cleaning frequency depends on your cooking volume and type. According to fire code (NFPA 96):
High-volume (24/7, charbroiling, frying): Monthly
Moderate-volume: Quarterly
Low-volume (churches, seasonal kitchens): Semi-annually
We can recommend a schedule based on your operation and help keep you on track.
What is NFPA 96 and why does it matter?
NFPA 96 is the fire safety standard for commercial kitchen exhaust systems. It requires regular cleaning to reduce grease buildup and fire risk.
Staying compliant helps you:
Pass fire inspections
Reduce fire hazards
Avoid fines or shutdowns
We perform all cleanings to NFPA 96 standards and provide documentation for your records.
What does your hood cleaning service include?
Our full service includes cleaning of the entire exhaust system:
Hood canopy
Filters
Ductwork (horizontal & vertical)
Exhaust fan
We remove grease buildup throughout the system—not just what’s visible.
Do you clean the entire system or just the hood?
We clean the entire exhaust system, not just the hood. This is critical for fire safety and compliance.
Some companies only clean visible areas—we make sure everything is properly cleaned.
Will you leave a mess in my kitchen?
No. We take extra care to protect your kitchen during service.
Floors, equipment, and surrounding areas are covered
We clean up thoroughly after the job
Your kitchen is ready for use when we leave
Do you provide before and after photos?
Yes. Every service includes before and after photos so you can clearly see the work performed.
These are also useful for inspections and record keeping.
Do I get documentation for inspections?
Absolutely. We provide:
Service reports
Cleaning certification sticker
Before & after photos
This ensures you’re prepared for fire marshal or health inspections.
How long does hood cleaning take?
Most jobs take 3–6 hours, depending on the size of your system and level of buildup.
Larger or heavily used systems may take longer.
Do you offer after-hours service?
Yes. We understand kitchens operate during the day, so we offer evening and overnight scheduling to avoid disrupting your business.
How much does hood cleaning cost?
Pricing depends on several factors:
Size of your system
Level of grease buildup
Accessibility of ductwork
Frequency of service
We provide free quotes so you know exactly what to expect.
What happens if I don’t clean my hood system regularly?
Neglecting your hood system can lead to:
Increased fire risk
Failed inspections
Fines or forced closure
Reduced airflow and equipment performance
Regular cleaning protects your business and keeps you compliant.
Do you service food trucks and mobile kitchens?
Yes. We clean food trucks, trailers, and mobile kitchens and can work around your schedule.
What areas do you service?
We serve commercial kitchens throughout Southwest Washington, including:
Vancouver
Camas
Washougal
Longview
Kelso
Battle Ground
Kalama
How do I schedule service?
Scheduling is simple:
Call us directly
Request a quote online
We’ll get you on the schedule quickly and set up a recurring service plan if needed.
Do you remind customers when service is due?
Yes. We track your service schedule and send reminders so you never fall behind or risk non-compliance.
Are you insured?
Yes. We are fully insured for commercial hood cleaning services, giving you peace of mind.
Still have questions about hood cleaning in Southwest Washington?
Contact Big Shine Hood Cleaning today for answers or a free quote.
