TR19 Grease Cleaning for Commercial Kitchen Extraction Systems

Grease and other contaminants build up inside kitchen extraction ductwork over time. Regular cleaning restores the system to TR19 compliance and keeps ventilation functioning properly.

TR19 is the leading guidance document for the hygiene of ventilation systems, setting the standard for internal cleanliness and duct cleaning across commercial buildings, including workplaces, accommodation and public facilities such as hospitals. Building owners are required to keep ductwork regularly cleaned with a suitable system of maintenance in place, and many commercial insurance providers also expect this as a condition of cover, failing to comply can put a policy at risk.

Where needed, we can add access doors and hatches to ductwork and its components, allowing proper access for cleaning and maintenance.

GMSE provides TR19 grease cleaning for commercial kitchens, helping you meet your compliance and insurance requirements.

What's Involved in a TR19 Grease Clean

A TR19 grease clean is a structured process, not a surface wipe-down. It typically includes:

An initial inspection of the system to assess grease build-up and identify any access points needed
Removal and cleaning of canopy filters
Cleaning of the canopy plenum and accessible internal surfaces
Cleaning along the ductwork run, including any risers and horizontal sections, using access panels where fitted
Cleaning of the extract fan and fan housing where accessible
A final check to confirm grease levels have been brought back within an acceptable standard

Some systems may need additional access panels installed to allow the full duct run to be properly reached and cleaned — this is something we'll flag during the initial assessment if it applies to your kitchen.

Signs Your Extraction System Needs Cleaning

You don't need to wait for a problem to book a clean, but a few signs are worth acting on sooner rather than later:

Visible grease around the canopy, filters or extract grille.
Reduced airflow, or a kitchen that feels noticeably hotter or steamier than usual
Persistent cooking odours that don't clear during service
Unusual noise from the extract fan
No record of a clean within the last 12 months

How Often Should TR19 Cleaning Be Carried Out

Cleaning frequency depends on how the kitchen is used, not a fixed calendar date. As a general guide:

Light use (occasional cooking, minimal frying) — annually
Medium use (regular daily cooking) — every six months
Heavy use (high-volume cooking, frequent frying or grilling) — every three months

We'll assess your kitchen's usage and recommend a suitable cleaning schedule rather than applying a one-size-fits-all interval.