As winter approaches in the UK, commercial kitchens face unique challenges, particularly concerning the use of kitchen exhaust fans. A common issue is the reluctance to use these fans during colder months due to the misconception that they remove essential heat from the kitchen. This blog post delves into the implications of this practice, emphasizing the importance of running kitchen fans even in winter, albeit at lower settings, to prevent long-term damage and maintain kitchen efficiency.
The Problem: Avoiding Fan Usage in Winter
In many UK commercial kitchens, there's a tendency to turn off the exhaust fans during winter. The rationale behind this is to conserve heat within the kitchen space. While this seems practical at first glance, it overlooks a crucial aspect of kitchen operations – the role of the fan in maintaining equipment health and kitchen safety.
The Consequences of Not Using the Fan
When the exhaust fan is not in operation, heat from cooking equipment accumulates. This heat can inadvertently 'cook' the fan itself. The primary concern here is the loss of lubrication within the fan system. As the fan heats up, the lubrication, crucial for smooth operation, leaks out or degrades. This can lead to increased friction in the fan's moving parts, ultimately causing the fan to run dry and eventually seize.
Understanding the Role of Grease
Grease plays a pivotal role in this scenario. It's not just about the grease used for lubrication but also the grease and vapors generated from cooking. Without the fan running, these greasy vapors settle on kitchen surfaces and within the fan system. This build-up can be a fire hazard and can also contribute to the deterioration of the fan's components.
The Solution: Running the Fan at Low Settings
The ideal solution is a balanced approach – running the fan at its lowest setting during winter months. This ensures that while the essential heat is retained to a reasonable degree, the fan continues to function, preventing heat accumulation and grease build-up. This practice ensures the longevity of the fan and maintains a safe, efficient kitchen environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the key to maintaining a healthy and safe commercial kitchen during the UK's winter months lies in understanding and managing the exhaust fan's role. By running the fan at a low setting, kitchen managers can strike a balance between preserving warmth and ensuring the longevity and efficiency of their kitchen equipment. Remember, it's all about managing the grease – both in terms of lubrication and cooking vapors.