The effect of some basic factors on the ventilation system of your mobile kitchen and a standard commercial kitchen is different. Let’s learn more about all the mandatory factors to consider while choosing a food truck kitchen hood fire suppression system for your company’s new food truck.
The chief purpose of food truck hood systems installed over cooking surfaces in mobile kitchens is to eliminate dangerous smoke and grease effluent. They help keep a cramped mobile kitchen cool as the hot air is exhausted through the hood. The selection of the type of vent hood to be installed is highly dependent on the space you have. The limited space in a food truck or concession trailer requires a different vent hood.
Food Truck Kitchen Hood Fire Suppression System and Fan Design
Food truck kitchen hood fire suppression systems that are particularly designed for smaller spaces are considered the best. Mobile kitchens where a lot of work is going on need a concession trailer hood system that is not only confined but also efficient enough to keep the system clean of grease and smoke. This is only possible with a vent hood that is low profile and delivers maximum performance. The advantage of using a back shelf low proximity hood is that it enhances clearance when the mounting in a concession trailer occurs. The design of this hood is specially made for kitchens with limited space.
Let’s not forget how important the design of your exhaust fan is. It is made to put an exhaust fan somewhere where it doesn’t occupy much space. However, the site of its installment is not important as you can put it on either the top or side of your vehicle. Most people recommend using a food truck exhaust fan with a low-profile shaft wrapper. The reason is that the shaft wrapper keeps the vehicle within local height requirements. Besides, you can avoid potential problems with the shaft wrapper.
All things considered, with NSF certification, ETL approval, and the UL listing of your food truck, a kitchen hood fire suppression system is a must. You cannot drive a vehicle that does not meet all NFPA fire codes. Hence, food truck fire codes and regulations are another significant factor to assess.
Food truck fire codes and regulations
It is commonly observed that most food truck operators have no idea about the importance of the the kitchen hood fire suppression system in its company’s food truck. This problem is common with old concession trailer vehicle operators who recently converted their vehicles into food trucks and mobile kitchens. As you know, fire can arise due to grease, cooking oil, or fat. A food truck kitchen hood fire suppression system is designed to suppress a fire. The system disperses flame suppressant chemicals if/when a fire is detected. The system is also designed to shut off any fuel or electrical current to equipment to keep a fire from spreading.
Still, some people inquire about whether their vehicles necessarily need a food truck fire suppression system or not. The answer to their question lies in checking with the local Fire Marshall. Taking this step will ensure you act comply with all the required fire regulations covering your food truck operation.
Knowing of all the protection provided by a fire suppression system, it is safe to say that the installation costs are worth it. We all know that fires do happen, and people lose everything. Most municipalities require you to install a food truck fire suppression system in a concession trailer kitchen. The reason is that the cause of more than 50% of food service business fires is cooking equipment, as per the research of the National Protection Fire Agency.
Function and ergonomics
Another factor that operators are very likely to ignore with surprising frequency. Designing the layout of a hood system is impossible without considering function and ergonomics.
First, keep your measurements correct and accurate if you want your mobile kitchen to be safe and efficient. Keep a reminder about accounting for service windows, electric outlets, and doorways. Don’t forget to take notice of already existing air-conditioning, ventilation, or heating vents in your vehicle.
Everything depends on how you use the space inside your food truck. The type and number cooking equipment must be noted too. Make sure you have already planned where you will install the equipment.
All the food truck operations rely on vent hoods. Be smart and install all the needed kitchen hood fire suppression system equipment you need to be 100% fire safe when operating your food truck. You can consult the experts at Brazas Fire, who are here to help you choose the food truck kitchen hood fire suppression systems based on your personal choice and on the fire safety requirements of your food truck.