At Hoodmart, we often receive questions about ventless commercial exhaust hoods. What exactly are they, and how do they work? In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about ventless commercial exhaust hoods and why they may be a great solution for your kitchen.

What is a Ventless Commercial Exhaust Hood?

A ventless commercial exhaust hood is a type of ventilation system that does not require ductwork to expel air outside the building. Instead, it uses a series of filters to clean and recirculate the air back into the kitchen.

How Does a Ventless Commercial Exhaust Hood Work?

A ventless commercial exhaust hood typically consists of several stages of filtration. The first stage is a grease-laden vapor filter, which captures grease particles and prevents them from entering the rest of the system. The second stage is a wire mesh filter, which removes odors and other contaminants from the air. The third stage is the carbon filter, which filters finer particles and fumes.

Once the air has been filtered, it is recirculated back into the kitchen through a series of vents. These vents are strategically placed to ensure that the clean air is distributed evenly throughout the kitchen.

What are the Benefits of using a Ventless Commercial Exhaust Hood?

One of the main benefits of going ventless with your commercial exhaust hood is that it eliminates the need for a duct system. This can be particularly beneficial for buildings that do not have the space or infrastructure to accommodate a traditional duct system. It can also be a cost-effective solution, as installing a duct system can be a significant expense.

Another benefit of ventless exhausts is that they can be more energy-efficient than traditional systems. Because the air is recirculated back into the kitchen, there is no need to constantly heat or cool outside air. This can result in significant energy savings over time.

Finally, ventless exhaust hoods are often easier to install and maintain than traditional systems. Because there is no duct system to worry about, installation can be completed quickly and with minimal disruption. Maintenance is also relatively straightforward, as the filters can be easily removed and replaced as needed.

Are There Any Drawbacks to Using a Ventless Commercial Exhaust Hood?

While ventless commercial exhaust hoods can be a great solution for many kitchens, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the main concerns is that they may not be able to handle high levels of smoke or grease. If your kitchen produces a significant amount of smoke or a high volume of grease-laden vapors, a ventless system may not be able to keep up.

Another concern is that ventless systems may not be compliant with local codes and regulations. Even though this is a Type 1  UL710B Listed system, we always advise you to check with your local jurisdictional authority to ensure this is acceptable based on local codes.

Conclusion

In summary, a ventless commercial exhaust hood is a type of ventilation system that does not require a duct system to expel air outside the building. Instead, it uses a series of filters to clean and recirculate the air back into the kitchen. While there are some potential drawbacks to consider, ventless systems can be a great solution for kitchens that do not have the space or infrastructure for a traditional duct system. They can also be more energy-efficient and easier to install and maintain than traditional systems. If you are considering a ventless commercial exhaust for your kitchen, consult the professionals at Hoodmart to ensure that it is the right solution for your needs.