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A canopy-only wipe-down and a complete exhaust system clean are very different jobs. Here is what a full commercial kitchen exhaust clean can include, and the questions to ask before you book.
· 7 min read
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Commercial Kitchen Canopy Cleaning: The Complete Guide for Melbourne Kitchens
Your canopy is the most visible part of the exhaust system, but the grease that matters is often behind the filters. Here is what professional canopy cleaning covers and how it is done.
By Apex Commercial Exhaust · · 6 min read
Key takeaways
- Canopy cleaning covers accessible canopy interiors, stainless steel surfaces, grease gutters, extraction openings and the plenum behind the filters.
- Grease behind the filters, in the plenum, is often heavier than what you can see.
- Professionals inspect, protect surrounding equipment, degrease, then review the cleaned surfaces.
- Existing scratches, corrosion or permanent staining may remain after cleaning.
- Canopy cleaning is one part of exhaust maintenance; ducts and the fan need attention too.
The canopy (also called the hood or rangehood) captures smoke, heat and grease-laden vapour above your cooking line. It is the part of the exhaust system your staff see every day, and the first place grease collects. Here is what professional commercial canopy cleaning involves.
What gets cleaned
Canopy interior
Stainless steel surfaces inside the hood where grease film builds up.
Plenum
The chamber behind the filters where extracted air collects before the duct.
Grease gutters
Channels and collection areas that catch draining grease.
Extraction openings
The connection points into the exhaust ductwork.
Within the agreed scope, Apex cleans all accessible and reachable areas of the canopy and can include the ducts, fan and filters. See commercial canopy cleaning.
How professionals clean a canopy
- Inspect the canopy, filters and plenum and confirm the scope.
- Protect cooking equipment and surrounding areas.
- Degrease using methods suited to stainless steel and the grease condition.
- Clean the plenum and gutters behind the filters where accessible.
- Review and photograph the cleaned surfaces.
Canopy cleaning and food safety
Food Standards Code Standard 3.2.3 requires food premises to have ventilation that effectively removes fumes, smoke, steam and vapours, and requires fixtures and equipment to be able to be effectively cleaned. FSANZ’s Safe Food Australia guide explains these standards. A clean canopy supports a cleaner kitchen, but it complements rather than replaces routine food hygiene.
How often should a canopy be cleaned?
Read about canopy cleaning frequency
Busy restaurant and takeaway canopies may need frequent routine degreasing, while lighter kitchens may need less. Fire services recommend that range hoods, ducting, grease fans and filters are routinely cleaned and inspected. Base your schedule on the grease found at each clean. See how often a kitchen exhaust should be cleaned.
What results to expect
Heavy grease can often be removed using appropriate degreasing and manual methods. Results depend on access, grease condition and existing surface damage: scratches, corrosion or permanent staining may remain.
Frequently asked questions
What is canopy plenum cleaning?
It is removing grease from the accessible chamber behind the canopy filters, where extracted air collects before entering the ductwork.
Can stainless steel rangehoods be deep cleaned?
Yes. Suitable stainless steel surfaces can be degreased with methods appropriate to the material and condition.
Is canopy cleaning the same as exhaust cleaning?
No. Canopy cleaning covers the hood. A complete exhaust clean can also cover the ducts, exhaust fan and filters.
References & further reading
Government, regulator and Standards sources mentioned in this guide (links checked November 2026; requirements can change, so check the current version):
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand, via the Federal Register of Legislation, Standard 3.2.3 Food Premises and Equipment (Australia only)
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), Safe Food Australia: A guide to the Food Safety Standards
- Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Rural Fire Service, ACT Fire Brigade and ACT Rural Fire Service, Restaurant fire safety
Need help with your kitchen exhaust? Apex Commercial Exhaust cleans canopies, exhaust ducts, rooftop fans and grease filters for commercial kitchens across Melbourne and Victoria.
This article is general information only and is not legal, insurance or compliance advice. Requirements for your kitchen depend on your system, building and obligations.
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