One of the most important parts of a commercial kitchen ventilation system is the upblast exhaust fan. It’s a hard working piece of equipment that must be functioning properly at all times.
For that reason, we get more questions about exhaust fans than any other product. Whether you’re looking to buy, replace, or repair a fan…there is a lot to know.
That’s why we created a new eBook – The Complete Guide to Upblast Exhaust Fans. Using that book, we are publishing a 4 part blog series that will cover everything you need to know about restaurant exhaust fans including:
- Exhaust Fans 101
- Cleaning & Maintenance Guidelines
- Safety Tips
- Troubleshooting & DIY Repairs
Let’s get started…
Exhaust Fans 101
All fans perform the basic function of moving air from one space to another. Upblast exhaust fans, also known as rooftop ventilators or exhausters, are primarily used to remove smoke, steam, heat, grease, and other food-related vapors that would otherwise contaminate the kitchen and eventually pollute the indoor air of a restaurant’s dining room. They are an essential part of any commercial kitchen ventilation system.
Commercial kitchen exhaust systems are made up of three components: an exhaust fan, air ducts, and a hood. The exhaust fan is what gets the air moving. The air ducts channel the air where you want it to go. The hood contains, protects, and houses the other pieces of equipment.
The number and configuration of fan, ducts, and hoods needed for an exhaust system depends on the size, layout, and architecture of the facility and its kitchen, as well as the volume and type of cooking.
Two Most Commonly Used Upblast Exhaust Fans
Commercial hood exhaust systems typically use either a belt drive or direct drive fan. Each type has it own benefits for certain needs and applications.
Belt Drive Exhaust Fans
A belt driven fan motor is not directly connected to the fan blades. Compared to direct drive fans, belt drive fans cost less up front, have a quieter operation, and usually allow greater flexibility with more precise speed control adjustments and easy in the field adjustments with pulley changes. However, the friction of the belt-and-motor pulley causes vibrations that can decrease the fan’s overall efficiency and may require frequent repairs and higher energy costs.
Direct Drive Exhaust Fans
In direct drive fans, the blades are directly attached to the motor’s shaft. Direct drive units are louder and have a higher purchase price than belt driven fans, but because they require no belts and have fewer moving parts, they are are extremely energy efficient, much easier to clean, and require very little maintenance.
Next up in The Complete Guide to Restaurant Exhaust Fans (Part 2) we’ll discuss how proper cleaning and maintenance can help ensure trouble-free operation and reduce your need for repairs.
Need help determining the most economical choice for your upblast exhaust fan needs? Give us a call at 877.394.9731 or visit us online at www.HoodFilters.com to Live Chat with one of our product specialists.