Understanding Commercial Ventilation and Hood Systems

In any professional kitchen, ventilation isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Without a proper ventilation and hood system, commercial kitchen equipment can quickly become uncomfortable, unhygienic, and even dangerous. From managing heat and smoke to meeting UAE health codes, a well-designed hood system is essential for safe and efficient operation.
At Mariot Kitchen Equipment dubai, we not only supply high-quality cooking and refrigeration equipment—we also fabricate and install custom stainless steel exhaust hoods and ducting systems designed specifically for your kitchen’s layout and cooking load. In this guide, we explain what commercial ventilation involves, how it works, and why it’s a critical part of your foodservice infrastructure.
What Is a Commercial Ventilation System?
A commercial kitchen equipment ventilation system consists of hoods, ductwork, fans, filters, and exhaust outlets that work together to remove:
Grease-laden vapors
Smoke and steam
Odors
Excess heat
Carbon monoxide and other gases
The system is designed to protect the kitchen crew, maintain air quality, and prevent fire hazards. In most countries—including the UAE—kitchen ventilation systems must meet strict municipal codes and hygiene standards.
Key Components of a Commercial Ventilation System
1. Exhaust Hood
The hood is positioned directly above cooking equipment (like ranges, grills, or fryers) and is responsible for capturing grease and smoke at the source. At Mariot, we fabricate Type I hoods (for grease and smoke) and Type II hoods (for heat and steam).
2. Grease Filters
Filters trap grease before it can enter the ductwork, reducing fire risk and simplifying cleaning. Most commercial hoods use baffle filters made of stainless steel, which can be removed and washed easily.
3. Ductwork
The duct system connects the hood to the outside exhaust point. Ducting must be properly sized and sealed to ensure airflow and compliance. We use food-grade stainless steel ducts fabricated in-house for durability and hygiene.
4. Exhaust Fan / Blower
Mounted on the rooftop or wall, the exhaust fan pulls contaminated air through the system and out of the kitchen. Fan size is calculated based on CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) needed to ventilate your specific appliances.
5. Make-Up Air System
To balance air pressure, kitchens also need a system that brings in fresh air from outside. Without this, the exhaust can create negative pressure, making the kitchen uncomfortable and inefficient.
Why Ventilation Is So Important
Health & Hygiene
A well-ventilated kitchen reduces moisture, odor, and airborne contaminants, creating a clean working environment that meets UAE food safety regulations.
Fire Safety
Grease buildup in ductwork is a major fire hazard. A hood system with proper filtration and regular maintenance drastically reduces this risk.
Temperature & Comfort
Removing heat and steam from the cookline helps keep the kitchen at a manageable temperature, improving staff performance and comfort.
Legal Compliance
All commercial kitchens in the UAE must meet municipality ventilation codes. Non-compliance can lead to fines, closures, or rejection of your kitchen fit-out approvals.
Types of Hood Systems
1. Wall-Mounted Hoods
Installed against a wall and used in most standard commercial kitchens. Ideal for linear cooklines.
2. Island Hoods
Suspended from the ceiling and used over cooking islands or where equipment is located away from walls.
3. Canopy Hoods
Large hoods designed to cover multiple appliances in one line. Offers maximum capture area.
4. Condensate Hoods
Used over steam-generating equipment like dishwashers or combi ovens to control moisture.
At Mariot, we customize each hood to your kitchen’s layout, cooking style, and ducting restrictions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ventilation System
1. Cooking Load and Equipment Type
Heavy-duty fryers, grills, and tandoors require stronger extraction than a simple sandwich station.
2. Kitchen Layout
Small or irregular kitchens need custom solutions that use vertical space efficiently and avoid conflicts with plumbing or electrical.
3. Air Volume (CFM)
Our design team calculates the required CFM to ensure smoke and grease are removed effectively.
4. Compliance with Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi Municipality Codes
We design and install systems that meet MEP, HVAC, and DEWA requirements, and assist with inspection approvals.
Mariot’s Custom Fabricated Hood Systems
We offer bespoke stainless steel hoods, fabricated in our Sharjah factory and tailored to your kitchen’s exact specifications. Every unit is:
Made from SS 304 food-grade stainless steel
Welded and polished for hygiene and durability
Compatible with fire suppression systems if required
Fitted with removable filters for easy maintenance
Designed with integrated lighting (optional)
Our installation teams provide full ducting, fan mounting, and electrical integration for a complete solution.
Kitchen Types We Serve
Restaurants and fine dining kitchens
Hotel buffets and banquets
Catering kitchens and central production units
Cafeterias and corporate canteens
Food trucks and kiosks
Cloud kitchens and delivery-only concepts
Visit Our UAE Locations
Dubai Branch
Visit Location
Sharjah Al Majaz Branch
View on Map
Sharjah Stainless Steel Fabrication Factory
Factory Link
Abu Dhabi Branch
Check Map
Main Head Office & Showroom
Google Listing
Contact Mariot Kitchen Equipment
Whether you're fitting out a new restaurant or upgrading your existing kitchen, Mariot is your one-stop partner for complete ventilation systems, custom fabrication, and professional installation.
Landline: +971 4 288 2777
Mobile / WhatsApp: +971 50 995 5446
Email: admin@mariotkitchen.com
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Final Thoughts
Commercial kitchen ventilation is not something to overlook. It’s the backbone of your kitchen’s safety, hygiene, and functionality. With proper design, materials, and installation, a high-quality hood system will serve you reliably for years.
At Mariot Kitchen Equipment, we offer end-to-end solutions—from custom fabrication to municipality approvals. Trust our team to deliver a system that fits your space, meets health codes, and keeps your team safe and productive.
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