A clean oven hood is vital for safety, efficiency, and compliance in a Papa Johns restaurant.
It removes grease, smoke, and heat, reducing fire hazards and improving air quality. Proper ventilation ensures consistent oven performance and a comfortable environment. Regular cleaning also meets health regulations, protecting the shop’s reputation and avoiding penalties.
Cleaning essentials
Frequency
Oven exterior, crumb
trays and oven windows
Daily
Oven hoods
Monthly
Oven deep clean
Restaurants over 500 weekly transactions
Monthly
Restaurants under 500 weekly transactions
Every two months
Chemicals
Heavy Duty Degreasing Solution
Supersoak Concentrate
Stainless Steel Cleaner
Sanitiser Mix
Note: Always follow the manufacturers’
chemical use instructions.
PPE
Gloves
Safety Goggles
Apron
Note: Always wear the correct
PPE when oven cleaning.
Steps for Cleaning a Pizza Oven Hood
1. Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Put on gloves, safety goggles, and an apron to protect yourself from harsh cleaning chemicals, grease and dust.
2. Turn Off Equipment
Ensure the oven and the exhaust system are turned off and cooled to prevent accidents.
3. Prepare the Area
Cover nearby surfaces and equipment with plastic or tarps to protect them from grease, dust and cleaning chemicals.
4. Remove Filters
Carefully detach the hood filters. These are often the greasiest components and should be cleaned separately.
5. Soak Filters
Place the filters in a sink or large container filled with hot water and degreaser. Let them soak for 20–30 minutes.
6. Scrub the Hood Interior
Use a degreasing solution and a scrub pad or brush to clean the inside surfaces of the hood, paying particular attention to corners and crevices where grease and dust accumulate.
7. Clean the Filters
After soaking, scrub the filters with a stiff brush, rinse thoroughly with hot water, and allow them to air dry.
8. Wipe Down the Hood Exterior
Use a degreaser or stainless-steel cleaner to clean the hood’s exterior, giving it a polished, professional appearance.
9. Inspect the Ductwork
Check the ductwork leading to the exhaust system for grease and dust buildup. If the buildup is significant, professional cleaning may be needed.
10. Reassemble
Once everything is clean and dry, reattach the filters and ensure all components are correctly secured.
11. Test the System
Turn the hood and exhaust system back on to confirm proper operation.
You can test the hood exhaust vents using an unfolded napkin.
Place it directly over one of the vents; if the napkin is tightly drawn to the vent, it confirms sufficient negative pressure.
12. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Set a routine cleaning schedule based on usage to maintain safety and efficiency. In most Papa John’s restaurants, the hood should be cleaned once a month.