Canopy filters, also known as kitchen filters, grease filters, cooker hood filters, or baffle filters, play a crucial role in commercial and residential kitchen ventilation systems. Their main purpose is to trap grease, remove airborne particles, and prevent flames from entering the ducting system, helping to maintain cleaner, safer air before it is expelled outdoors.
We offer three main types of canopy filters: grease filters, baffle filters, and the Dual Premium filter, which combines the functions of both. In this blog post, we’ll focus specifically on baffle filters, explaining how they work, their benefits, and when they should be used.
A baffle filter is designed primarily to prevent flames from entering the extraction ductwork. Secondarily, it captures grease from cooking vapours, preventing it from accumulating inside the ductwork - a common fire hazard in kitchens without proper ventilation.
Baffle filters are widely used in commercial kitchen canopy hoods due to their flame arrestor properties and grease-trapping efficiency. These filters provide an essential barrier between cooking equipment and extraction systems, helping to maintain a safer kitchen environment.
Airflow performance is critical in any kitchen ventilation system. Baffle filters are engineered for low-pressure drop, meaning they allow for optimal airflow while maintaining high filtering efficiency. Our stainless steel baffle filters typically have a pressure drop of around 190 Pascals (Pa) at an airflow rate of 1.5 meters per second - this pressure remains stable throughout use for maintained professional quality.
The filter’s design includes two staggered sets of baffles, which force the air to move in a zigzag pattern. This non-linear airflow path causes heavier particles like grease and other contaminants to be captured within the filter, while also disrupting any flame paths, significantly reducing fire risk.
Additionally, the fold-down handles attached to the filter frame do not interfere with airflow when correctly positioned inside the canopy hood.
To keep your baffle filters operating at peak performance, regular cleaning is essential. Over time, grease, smoke particles, and carbon build-up can reduce filtration efficiency and create fire hazards.
Our baffle filters are constructed exclusively from high-grade, polished stainless steel, which is scratch-resistant and easy to clean compared to alternatives like mild or galvanized steel. The smooth surface resists debris build-up, and the filters include drain holes in the outer frame to allow effective drainage after washing.
For best results, clean the filters regularly using hot water and a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and allow the filter to dry completely before reinstalling it into the canopy. With routine maintenance, these filters can last for many years and remain consistently reliable.
Choosing the right type of canopy filter depends on the cooking methods used in your kitchen:
Use baffle filters if your cooking area presents a risk of open flames, such as in chargrilling or open-flame cooking scenarios. These filters are best when flame resistance is a priority and grease output is minimal.
Use grease filters when your cooking produces heavy grease or oil vapours, such as deep-frying or pan-frying. These filters are optimized for maximum grease capture, but offer less flame protection.
Use Dual Premium filters if your cooking setup involves both flame and grease hazards. These filters combine the benefits of both baffle and grease filters, making them the best option for mixed-use kitchens.
We stock a wide range of standard canopy filter sizes, available for immediate dispatch. While grease and Dual Premium filters are available in multiple material options, our baffle filters are only available in premium stainless steel for maximum durability and performance.
Need a custom size? No problem. We manufacture bespoke filters tailored to your exact dimensions. If you don’t see the size you need, contact our team directly at 01673 895130 or fill out the form on our Contact Us page for a quick quote or more information.
To summarise, Baffle Filters are a critical component in any kitchen ventilation system that needs to manage both fire safety and air quality. Their low-pressure design, stainless steel construction, and effective flame and grease control make them ideal for commercial cooking environments.
Whether you need grease capture, flame protection, or both, we offer the right canopy filter to match your kitchen’s requirements. For expert advice or a quote, contact us today.