FAQs
What does “no extraction” mean in a commercial kitchen?
When a site reports “no extraction”, it means the ventilation system has failed. That usually knocks the gas interlock off, which means gas can’t be used and the kitchen can’t trade.
What causes a commercial kitchen ventilation system to fail?
It can be anything from fan failures, motor failures, control faults, broken cables, interlock issues, blown fuses, or blocked grills. Every system is different.
Why does a ventilation failure shut off the gas supply?
Commercial kitchens are interlocked for safety. If the ventilation system isn’t working properly, the gas interlock shuts the gas off to prevent unsafe operation.
Do you need to attend site to diagnose a ventilation fault?
Not always. Images and videos can often be used to review what’s on site, helping diagnose issues remotely and avoid unnecessary visits.
Can commercial kitchen ventilation systems be fixed on the first visit?
In most cases, yes. Carrying a wide range of parts allows many issues to be repaired on the first visit rather than attending just to diagnose.
Why do some ventilation repairs require multiple visits?
Older or poorly maintained systems can have multiple underlying faults. Fixing one issue can expose another, which may require further work.
Is it better to repair or replace a ventilation system?
It depends on the condition of the system. A like-for-like repair can restore operation quickly, but upgrading may be needed to ensure compliance and long-term performance.
What maintenance helps prevent ventilation breakdowns?
Regular cleaning such as TR-19, electrical inspections, and checking airflow and interlocks can reduce failures. Grease build-up is a common cause of issues.
Do you work on all types of commercial kitchen ventilation systems?
Yes. Most systems are bespoke, so work can be carried out across a wide range of setups rather than being limited to specific brands.
How quickly can a commercial kitchen ventilation fault be repaired?
Repair times depend on the issue and location, but the focus is on fixing the problem as quickly as possible and getting the kitchen back up and running.