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NFPA 96 (Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations) requires cleaning frequency based on cooking volume: monthly for solid fuel cooking (wood, charcoal); quarterly for high-volume cooking (24-hour operations, charbroiling); semi-annually for moderate-volume cooking; and annually for low-volume cooking (pizzerias, churches, seasonal businesses). Your local fire marshal may have additional requirements. Failure to comply can void your fire suppression system coverage.

Hood cleaning costs range from $300 to $1,500+ depending on system size, grease accumulation, and accessibility. Small single-hood systems run $300-$500; larger multi-hood systems or restaurants with heavy cooking can run $700-$1,500. Access issues (long duct runs, high roofs) add cost. Budget for cleaning as a fixed operating expense — it's far less expensive than a grease fire, insurance claims, or health violations.

A comprehensive PM program should include: scheduled inspections at manufacturer-recommended intervals, cleaning of condenser coils and filters, calibration of temperature controls, inspection and testing of safety systems, lubrication of moving parts, replacement of wear items (gaskets, filters, belts), refrigerant level checks, combustion analysis for gas equipment, and detailed documentation for each visit. Avoid programs that are just a visual inspection without hands-on service.