1. Understand Local Code Requirements

Before starting installation, review local codes such as:

Australian Standards AS 1668.1 & AS 1668.2
Council and fire safety regulations

Your commercial exhaust canopy must comply with all relevant guidelines.

2. Choose the Right Type of Hood

There are two main categories of commercial kitchen exhaust canopies:

Type I Hoods – For grease and smoke-producing appliances (grills, fryers)
Type II Hoods – For appliances that emit heat and steam (ovens, dishwashers)

Most commercial kitchens require a Type I commercial range hood with a fire suppression system.

3. Calculate Required Ventilation (CFM)

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) measures the amount of air the hood must remove. This depends on:

Cooking equipment output
Hood dimensions
Kitchen size

Ensure the commercial range hood Melbourne is sized correctly to maintain proper air flow.

4. Install Ductwork

Ducting should be:

Constructed from stainless steel
Airtight and grease-resistant
As direct and short as possible
Sloped upwards with no sharp bends

Ducts must terminate outside the building, never in attics or ceiling cavities.

5. Install the Exhaust Fan

Place the fan:

On the roof or external wall
Away from air inlets
Equipped with a backdraft damper

The fan must be compatible with commercial kitchen exhaust canopy systems and grease-rated.

6. Integrate a Makeup Air System

Makeup air is critical for balancing the ventilation system. Without it, your commercial exhaust hood may:

Underperform
Create negative air pressure
Compromise indoor air quality

A makeup air unit introduces filtered, tempered air to replace what’s been exhausted.

7. Fire Suppression System Installation

All commercial exhaust canopies that handle grease must include an automatic fire suppression system. This:

Activates automatically when fire is detected
Covers the hood, duct, and cooking appliances
Must comply with AS 3772 (Australia) or NFPA 96 (USA)

8. System Testing and Commissioning

Final steps include:

Airflow testing
Filter inspection
Fire system activation tests
Compliance certification

Ensure everything is documented and ready for inspection.

Maintenance Best Practices

Clean grease filters weekly or as required
Inspect and clean ducts regularly
Service exhaust fans to prevent wear
Maintain fire suppression systems annually

Neglecting maintenance can result in health violations or fire hazards.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Venting into non-compliant spaces
Using undersized commercial range hoods
Poor ducting angles cause airflow resistance
Not installing a makeup air unit
Forgetting code and fire safety compliance

Choose the Right Experts for Your Commercial Exhaust Installation

Installing a commercial kitchen exhaust canopy is a job for licensed professionals. An expert installer can help you:

Design a compliant and efficient system
Select the best commercial exhaust hood
Ensure fire safety and building compliance

Look for contractors who offer custom fabrication, complete ventilation system design, and manufacturer-backed warranties.

Conclusion

Venting a commercial kitchen hood properly is a key part of running a safe and functional kitchen. From choosing the right commercial range hood to installing compliant ducting and ventilation fans, each step matters.

If you’re upgrading your kitchen or starting a new hospitality business, consult with professionals experienced in commercial exhaust canopies to ensure a successful installation.