Complete Hood Cleaning Services for San Diego Commercial Kitchens
NFPA 96-Certified Hood Cleaning That Keeps Your Kitchen Safe, Compliant & Fire-Free
Core Services Hood Cleaning provides comprehensive commercial kitchen exhaust hood cleaning services throughout San Diego County. Our complete approach goes beyond surface cleaning to deliver the deep, thorough cleaning your exhaust system needs to stay compliant, safe, and efficient. From hood interiors to rooftop fans, we clean every component that matters.
⭐️ 30+ 5 Star Reviews on Google
NFPA 96 Certified
🔥 Fully Licensed and Insured
📞 24/7 Emergency Service
What Makes our Hood Cleaning Complete?
Many hood cleaning companies offer basic services that barely meet minimum requirements. Core Services delivers a truly complete hood cleaning that addresses every component of your exhaust system. We don't cut corners, skip steps, or rush through jobs. Here's what "complete" means when you choose Core Services:
Hood Interior & Exterior Cleaning
We thoroughly clean all interior and exterior hood surfaces, removing grease from every angle, crevice, and surface. Many companies only clean visible areas—we clean everything, including areas inspectors check during detailed inspections. Your hood will be spotless inside and out.
Plenum & Filter Housing Deep Cleaning
The plenum chamber where grease accumulates is thoroughly scraped, degreased, and cleaned. This is where most grease fires start, so we give it special attention. Filter housing and brackets are completely cleaned and inspected for damage or wear.
Grease Filter Service
Filters are either deep-cleaned using hot tank degreasing methods or replaced through our filter exchange program. Clean filters improve exhaust efficiency, reduce energy costs, and dramatically reduce fire risk. We inspect every filter for damage.
Accessible Ductwork Cleaning
We clean all accessible sections of your exhaust ductwork from top to bottom. Using specialized tools and high-pressure equipment, we remove dangerous grease buildup from duct interiors. This is critical for fire prevention and often overlooked by other companies.
Exhaust Fan Cleaning & Inspection
Fan blades, housings, motors, and external components are thoroughly cleaned and degreased. We inspect fan operation, check belt tension, and alert you to any performance issues. Fans are a critical fire risk area that many companies completely overlook.
Rooftop Component Service
We access your roof to service exhaust fan housings, hinges, grease containment systems, and roof curbs. No shortcuts—we do the complete job.
Access Panels & Hardware
All access panels, hinges, and removable components are cleaned, lubricated if needed, and returned to proper working order. Inspectors check these areas specifically, and we make sure they're spotless and functional.
Final Detailing & Polishing
Visible stainless steel surfaces are polished to a professional finish. Your hood doesn't just function better—it looks incredible. This attention to detail shows the level of care we put into every aspect of the job.
Our 8 Step Professional Hood Cleaning Process
Every Core Services hood cleaning follows a proven process that ensures complete NFPA 96 compliance and thorough cleaning from top to bottom.
Step 1:
Comprehensive Pre-Cleaning Assessment
Before we start, we conduct a detailed inspection of your entire system. We photograph all areas, measure grease accumulation, check fan operation, and identify any maintenance issues.
Step 2:
Kitchen Protection & Setup
We protect your investment. We cover floors with waterproof protection, shield cooking equipment and prep surfaces, and ensure we leave your kitchen as clean as we found it.
Step 3:
Commercial-Grade Degreasers
We use professional, food-safe degreasers specifically formulated for commercial kitchen exhaust systems. These powerful chemicals break down years of baked-on grease and carbon deposits.
Step 4:
Manual Scraping & Agitation
Heavy grease deposits require manual removal. Our technicians use specialized scrapers and brushes to remove thick grease accumulations, especially in the plenum and duct interiors.
Step 5:
Rooftop Component Service
We access your roof to service exhaust fan housings and blades, fan motors and belt systems, grease containment systems, roof curbs and weatherproofing.
Step 6:
High-Pressure Hot Water Rinsing
We use professional high-pressure, high-temperature water systems (200°F+) to thoroughly rinse all cleaned surfaces. This removes loosened grease and residual chemicals completely.
Step 7:
Filter Service & Inspection
We either deep-clean existing filters, or inspect filters and recommend replacement if damaged or beyond effective use.
Step 8:
Complete Documentation
We provide detailed before/after photographs, NFPA 96 compliance certificate, written inspection report, service date verification, and recommendations for next service.
NFPA 96 Compliance & Fire Safety
What is NFPA 96?
NFPA 96 is the Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations, published by the National Fire Protection Association. This nationally recognized standard establishes requirements for commercial cooking exhaust systems.
Why NFPA 96 Compliance Matters:
Fire Prevention & Safety
Grease fires in commercial kitchens cause millions of dollars in damage annually. NFPA 96-compliant cleaning removes fire hazards and protects your business, employees, and customers.
Health Department Requirements
San Diego County requires all food facilities to maintain exhaust systems in accordance with NFPA 96 standards. Violations can result in point deductions, reinspections, or closure orders.
Fire Marshal Requirements
San Diego Fire-Rescue enforces fire safety codes including kitchen exhaust system maintenance. Non-compliance can result in citations, fines, or operating restrictions.
Insurance Requirements Matter
Most commercial kitchen insurance policies require proof of regular NFPA 96-compliant hood cleaning. Failure to maintain proper documentation can result in:
❌ Denied fire damage claims
❌ Policy cancellation
❌ Increased premiums
❌ Personal liability exposure
Legal Liability Protection
In the event of a fire, failure to maintain NFPA 96 compliance can result in personal and corporate liability, negligence claims, and business license suspension.
Core Services Ensures Complete Compliance
Every service we perform meets or exceeds NFPA 96 standards. We provide comprehensive documentation accepted by health departments, fire marshals, and insurance companies throughout San Diego County.
Industries & Facilites we Serve Throughout San Diego County
🍔 Full-Service Restaurants
Fine dining, casual dining, and family restaurants trust Core Services for professional hood cleaning that keeps their kitchens safe and compliant.
⚡ Quick-Service & Fast Food
High-volume operations require frequent, thorough cleaning. We work with independent restaurants and national franchise chains.
🏨 Hotels & Resorts
Hotel restaurants and resort kitchens require the highest standards. Our service meets these demanding requirements.
🏫 Schools & Universities
We work with San Diego Unified, universities, colleges, and private schools with unique scheduling needs and strict compliance requirements.
🏥 Healthcare Facilities
Hospital kitchens and nursing facilities require specialized service. We understand healthcare regulations.
🏢 Corporate Cafeterias Office building cafeterias benefit from our flexible scheduling and professional service approach.
🍕 Food Courts
Multi-tenant food courts require coordinated service. One call handles all tenants' needs.
🚓 Correctional Facilities We have experience and proper clearances for secure facilities throughout San Diego County.
🍽️ Catering Operations
Catering kitchens and commissaries require reliable service that keeps them ready for any event.
How Often Should You Schedule Hood Cleaning?
MONTHLY CLEANING REQUIRED
Required for solid fuel operations:
✓ Coal fired ovens
✓ Wood burning ovens
✓ Any operation where burning solid fuel to cook is necessary
Risk Level: High
Fire Danger: Maximum if not maintained
QUARTERLY CLEANING REQUIRED
Standard for high-volume operations:
✓ 24 hour cooking
✓ Charbroiling
✓ Wok cooking
✓ Most sit-down restaurants
Risk Level: Moderate
Fire Danger: Significant if neglected
SEMI-ANNUAL CLEANING REQUIRED
Minimum for moderate-volume operations:
✓ Moderate-volume operations
✓ Seasonal restaurants
✓ Churches with occasional cooking
✓ Day cares with light cooking
Risk Level: Lower
Fire Danger: Still present if ignored
When in Doubt, Clean More Frequently
More frequent cleaning costs less per service and dramatically reduces fire risk. Not sure what schedule you need?
Call Core and we'll assess your operations and recommend the appropriate frequency.
Transparent Pricing You Can Count On
No Hidden Fees. No Surprise Charges. Just Honest Pricing for Complete Service.
Most San Diego commercial kitchen hood cleaning services range. Your exact pricing depends on several factors:
Factors That Affect Hood Cleaning Pricing:
System Size & Complexity
Small single-hood systems cost less than large multi-hood commercial kitchens. The number of hoods, length of ductwork, and number of exhaust fans all impact service time and pricing.
Cleaning Frequency
Regular maintenance customers pay less than one-time deep cleans. Well-maintained systems clean faster and easier, reducing service time and cost.
System Condition
Neglected systems requiring extensive scraping, heavy degreasing, and extra time naturally cost more. Systems cleaned regularly are more affordable to maintain.
Accessibility
Easy rooftop access costs less than difficult or dangerous access situations. Multi-story buildings, complex roof access, or challenging layouts may increase pricing.
Service Timing
Standard business hours are less expensive than rush service, after-hours, overnight, or weekend emergency service.
We Never Surprise You With Hidden Fees
Your quote is your final price. We don't add surprise charges for services that should be included. No "fuel surcharges," "disposal fees," or other add-ons—just honest pricing for complete service.
What's Always Included:
✓ Complete hood and exhaust system cleaning
✓ Rooftop component service
✓ Before/after photography
✓ NFPA 96 compliance documentation
✓ Detailed inspection report
✓ All chemicals, equipment, and supplies
✓ Kitchen protection and cleanup
Volume & Contract Discounts Available
Multi-location operators, property management companies, and recurring service customers receive preferred pricing. Ask about our service contracts and volume discounts.
Get Your Free, No-Obligation Quote
Call (858) 361-2570 or request a quote online. We'll ask about your system, schedule a brief on-site assessment if needed, and provide accurate pricing with no pressure to commit.
Why San Diego Trusts Core Services
👨👩👧👦 Family-Owned & Operated
We're not a national chain or franchise. Core Services is a family-owned San Diego business built on blue-collar values and personal accountability. When you call, you talk to people who genuinely care about your business and your satisfaction.
⚡ True 24/7 Availability
Many companies claim 24/7 service but only respond during business hours. We answer calls nights, weekends, and holidays. Real emergencies get real responses—not voicemail.
🏆 NFPA 96 Certified Technicians
Every technician is NFPA 96 certified, background-checked, and trained in professional customer service. We send true professionals to your business, not day laborers or untrained crews.
📋 Complete Documentation
We provide the most comprehensive documentation in the industry: before/after photos, compliance certificates, detailed reports, and digital records you can access anytime.
🔧 Professional Equipment
We invest in professional-grade equipment: high-pressure hot water systems, commercial degreasers, specialized tools, and proper safety equipment. Better equipment delivers better results.
⭐ 30+ Five-Star Reviews
San Diego's restaurants and facilities trust Core Services for a reason. Check our Google reviews to see what your neighbors say about our service, reliability, and professionalism.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Hood Cleaning
Q: How long will my hood cleaning take?
A: Most standard restaurant hoods take 3-4 hours to clean completely. Larger systems with multiple hoods, extensive ductwork, or heavy grease buildup may take 4-6 hours. We'll provide an accurate time estimate when we quote your service. We work efficiently to minimize disruption to your operations.
Q: Can you clean during our business hours?
A: We can work around your schedule. Many San Diego restaurants prefer early morning (4-8 AM), late night (after closing), or day-of-closure service to avoid disrupting operations. We're flexible and available 24/7 to accommodate your needs.
Q: What do I need to provide?
A: Nothing! We bring all equipment, chemicals, protective coverings, and supplies. We just need access to your kitchen, roof, and a water source. Some facilities require us to use specific stairways or elevators—just let us know any access requirements and we'll work within them.
Q: Will you make a mess in my kitchen?
A: No. We protect floors and equipment before starting, contain all water and degreaser, and leave your kitchen cleaner than we found it. We take pride in being professional and respectful of your facility.
Q: Do you guarantee your work?
A: Absolutely. If you're not satisfied with our cleaning or if an inspector finds any issues with our work, we'll return and make it right at no additional charge. We stand behind every service we perform.
Q: Can you work with our fire suppression company?
A: Yes! We regularly coordinate with fire suppression service companies for combined service visits. This saves you time, reduces kitchen downtime, and ensures your entire fire protection system is serviced together.
Q: Do you offer emergency service?
A: Yes! We provide true 24/7 emergency hood cleaning for situations like unexpected health inspections, failed inspections requiring immediate correction, fire suppression system activations, or any situation where you need service NOW. Call (858) 361-2570 anytime for emergency service.
Q: What if my system hasn't been cleaned in years?
A: No judgment—we've seen it all. Severely neglected systems require more time and effort, but we can restore them to NFPA 96 compliance. We'll be honest about the condition, time required, and cost. The important thing is getting it cleaned and maintaining it properly going forward.
Schedule Your Professional Hood Cleaning Service Today
Don't wait for a health code violation, failed inspection, or fire hazard. Schedule your professional hood cleaning service and experience the Core Services difference.
✓ Serving All of San Diego County
✓ NFPA 96 Certified & Fully Insured
✓ 24/7 Emergency Service Available
✓ 30+ Five-Star Google Reviews
Core Services Hood Cleaning
5284 Eastgate Mall San Diego, CA 92121