Grease air filters may not always be top of mind, but they are absolutely vital when it comes to maintaining air quality, safety, and cleanliness - especially in kitchens and industrial environments. In this guide, we’ll break down what grease filters do, the different types available, and why they’re a must-have in any high-performance ventilation system.
What Are Grease Air Filters?
Grease air filters are designed to capture airborne grease particles and other contaminants generated during cooking or industrial processes. Without proper filtration, these particles can build up in ventilation systems, leading to fire hazards, reduced air quality, and expensive equipment damage.
Why Grease in the Air is a Problem
- Fire Risk
Grease is extremely flammable. When it collects in exhaust ducts or ventilation components, it can ignite easily - especially in commercial kitchens where high cooking temperatures are the norm. In fact, grease-related fires are one of the leading causes of restaurant fires.
- Poor Air Quality
Airborne grease not only smells bad but also traps other contaminants like smoke and fumes. This can lead to stuffy, unhealthy air, putting employees and customers at risk of respiratory issues, especially those with asthma or sensitivities.
- System Damage
Grease build-up in exhaust fans, ducts, and filters can block airflow and overwork the system. This causes reduced efficiency, overheating, wear and tear, and even system failure - leading to high repair or replacement costs.
- Increased Cleaning
Grease doesn’t just float in the air, it lands. On walls, ceilings, and floors, it creates sticky surfaces that attract dirt and dust. This leads to more frequent and challenging cleaning. In commercial kitchens, this build-up can result in health code violations or fines.
Types of Grease Air Filters
Different environments call for different filtration solutions. Here’s a look at the main types of grease filters available:
- Metal Mesh Filters
Ideal for trapping larger grease particles, these filters are commonly used in extraction hoods to prevent grease from spreading into ductwork and other areas.
Materials: Available in stainless steel, aluminium, or galvanised steel
Design: Supplied with collapsible carry handles for easy removal and cleaning
Cleaning: Wash with hot water and mild detergent, dry completely, and reinstall
- Baffle Filters
Designed for commercial kitchens, baffle filters reduce the risk of flames entering the ducting system—making them a safer option where fire risk is high.
Construction: Rolled stainless-steel baffle plates, welded to a sub-frame inside a durable outer frame
Function: Interlocking channels redirect airflow, trapping grease effectively
Maintenance: Easily washable and reusable
- Dual Premium Filters
These advanced filters combine the benefits of both baffle and mesh technologies for maximum grease removal and flame resistance.
Materials: High-grade stainless steel
Safety: Certified with Flame Resistance Test – Class A
Performance: Offers superior protection and air filtration in busy kitchens
Cleaning: Just like the others, they’re washable and reusable
The Benefits of Using Grease Air Filters
- Enhanced Fire Safety - Filters capture grease before it can build-up in ducts, dramatically lowering fire risk.
- Better Air Quality - Cleaner air means fewer odours, less smoke, and a healthier indoor environment for everyone.
- Extended Equipment Life - By keeping your ventilation systems clean, filters help reduce wear and tear on fans, motors, and ducts.
- Compliance with Regulations - Most commercial kitchens are required by health and safety codes to have appropriate grease filtration in place.
How to Choose and Use Grease Filters
Here’s how to make sure you’re getting the right filter—and using it properly:
- Evaluate Your Environment - Consider how much grease your space generates. A busy kitchen frying food all day will need more robust filtration than a low-volume prep area.
- Select the Right Filter Type -
Metal mesh for basic particle capture,
Baffle filters for fire-safe ventilation,
Dual premium for the highest level of protection and performance.
- Install Strategically - Grease filters are most effective when installed at the source—in your kitchen canopy or exhaust hood.
- Maintain Regularly - Clean or replace filters based on usage. Neglecting maintenance not only reduces performance - it also creates safety risks.
- Get Expert Help - Not sure which filter to choose or how to install it? Reach out to us for professional guidance tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
Grease air filters are more than just an accessory - they're a critical line of defence against fires, poor air quality, and costly maintenance issues. Whether you're running a commercial kitchen, operating an industrial facility, or upgrading your home cooking space, the right filtration system helps keep things cleaner, safer, and more efficient.
Need help selecting or maintaining your grease filters? Please
contact us - we’re here to support you, assess your needs and find the perfect filtration for your requirements.