How do I know if my kitchen exhaust system is clean?

Under NFPA 96, all components, including hoods, grease removal devices, ducts, and fans, must be cleaned before grease or oily residue becomes heavily accumulated. The IKECA Grease Gauge can help assess cleanliness. This tool measures grease buildup from zero to .125 inches and indicates whether the system is within acceptable limits, requires cleaning, or has reached a critical level.

What are the risks of not properly cleaning a kitchen exhaust system?

Grease and debris buildup create a serious fire hazard and reduce equipment efficiency and lifespan. The NFPA states that the majority of fires in restaurants start with cooking equipment and can rapidly move into the exhaust systems. Unless the system is thoroughly cleaned, there is a significant risk of fire each time cooking equipment is operated.

Ready to Work with a Certified Team?

Choose a provider that meets the highest industry standards and helps your business stay compliant

Request a Cleaning Quote Today

IKECA-Certified Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning You Can Trust

At ABC Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Inc., we take pride in delivering services that meet the highest industry standards. Our IKECA certification reflects our commitment to safety, quality, and professionalism across every project we complete in Winnipeg and throughout Manitoba, across Saskatchewan including Saskatoon and Regina, and Northwestern Ontario, including Thunder Bay, Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances, and Red Lake.

What IKECA Certification Means

The International Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Association is a globally recognized authority in kitchen exhaust system cleaning. This organization establishes strict industry standards and promotes best practices to ensure systems are cleaned properly and safely. Being IKECA certified means our work is performed in accordance with proven methods that prioritize fire prevention, system efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

A Higher Standard of Service

Choosing an IKECA-certified contractor means choosing accountability, expertise, and thoroughness. Not all providers invest in this level of certification, which makes it a clear distinction in the industry. ABC Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Inc. is proud to be among the few companies, including in Winnipeg, holding this certification. This positions us as a leader in delivering reliable and compliant cleaning services.

Training That Never Stops

Maintaining IKECA certification requires ongoing commitment. Our technicians complete annual training hours to stay current with evolving industry standards, safety protocols, and cleaning techniques. This continuous training ensures our team delivers consistent, high-quality results while adapting to the latest expectations in commercial kitchen exhaust cleaning.

Built Around Fire Safety and Compliance

Our work aligns with key fire safety guidelines, including those outlined by NFPA standards. This ensures your kitchen exhaust system is cleaned in a way that supports both safety and compliance. By working with a certified provider, you help protect your business from potential risks while meeting inspection and insurance requirements.

Clear Proof of Every Service

After each cleaning, ABC Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Inc. provides clear documentation so you can confidently demonstrate compliance. You receive the following:

A certification sticker applied to the hood as visible proof of service
Before and after photos showing the results
A detailed service report outlining the work performed

This level of transparency helps streamline inspections and supports your operational records.

Why Proper Certification Matters for Your Business

Improper or incomplete cleaning can lead to serious consequences, including fire hazards, insurance complications, and failed inspections. Working with an IKECA-certified company reduces these risks by ensuring your system is cleaned thoroughly and correctly. It also provides peace of mind knowing your facility is protected and compliant.

Make the Right Choice for Your Kitchen

Certified companies follow established standards, invest in training, and deliver verifiable results. Non-certified providers may overlook critical areas or lack the expertise required for proper cleaning, which can increase your risk. ABC Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Inc. delivers the level of service your business needs to stay safe, compliant, and inspection ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to our most frequently asked questions:

IKECA members follow a strict Code of Ethics and complete a full system cleaning, from the kitchen hood to the rooftop fan. They adhere to recognized industry standards, including NFPA 96, from the National Fire Protection Association, and IKECA guidelines. In contrast, some providers offer limited “hood cleaning” that excludes ducts and fans. While this may improve appearance, it does not adequately address fire safety or health risks. Always choose a qualified contractor committed to cleaning the entire system.