Mechanical Ventilation in Kenya: Extractor Fans, Kitchen hood

Mechanical ventilation services refer to the use of specialized equipment to assist or replace a person’s natural breathing process when they are unable to breathe adequately on their own. This can be a critical medical intervention in various situations, from supporting patients during surgery to managing respiratory issues in intensive care units. 

  • Mechanical Ventilation Systems:
    These systems are used to improve indoor air quality by extracting stale air and supplying fresh air. 

  • Purpose:
    To maintain a healthy indoor environment by ensuring proper ventilation and removing pollutants. 

  • Applications:
    Used in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial settings to improve air quality and comfort. 

  • Types:
    Can include systems that supply fresh air, extract stale air, or both. 

    Kitchen mechanical ventilation services in Kenya

    Kitchen mechanical ventilation services refer to systems that actively remove stale, contaminated air from kitchens and replace it with fresh air, often using fans, ducts, and hoods. This system helps control odors, smoke, and humidity, improving indoor air quality and the overall comfort of the kitchen. 

    How it works:
    • Extraction:
      Kitchen exhaust fans or hoods, often installed above the stovetop, capture smoke, steam, and odors during cooking. 

    • Ducting:
      These systems use a network of ducts to draw air from the kitchen and expel it outside. 

    • Fresh Air Supply:
      In some cases, the system also incorporates a supply of fresh air to replace the air that is removed, often with heat recovery if desired. 

    • Filtering:
      Some systems may include filters to remove grease and other particulate matter before the air is exhausted. 

    • Control:
      The ventilation system can be controlled manually or automatically, with some systems activating automatically when cooking appliances are in use. 

    Benefits of kitchen mechanical ventilation:

    • Improved Indoor Air Quality:
      Removes pollutants, smoke, and odors, creating a healthier and more pleasant environment. 

    • Humidity Control:
      Helps prevent the buildup of moisture and condensation, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. 

    • Enhanced Comfort:
      Reduces the feeling of stuffiness and improves overall air quality, making the kitchen a more comfortable space to be in. 

    • Energy Efficiency:
      Can help reduce the strain on air conditioning systems by removing heat and humidity, and some systems incorporate heat recovery. 

    • Reduced Risk of Fire:
      By removing smoke and grease, the system helps prevent potential fire hazards. 

    • Legal Compliance:
      Many jurisdictions have regulations regarding kitchen ventilation, and proper systems are essential for compliance. 

    Types of kitchen ventilation systems:

    • Cooker Hoods:
      The most common type, typically installed above the stovetop, with or without built-in fans. 

    • Ductless Range Hoods:
      Recirculate air through filters instead of venting it outside, suitable for kitchens without outdoor vents. 

    • Wall-Mounted Extractor Fans:
      Installed in the wall, often in conjunction with a hood or separate from it. 

    • Intermittent Extractor Fans:
      Turn on only when needed, often with a timer or switch. 

    • Continuous Extractor Fans:
      Run constantly, even when not actively cooking, to provide continuous air exchange. 

    In summary, kitchen mechanical ventilation is a crucial element for maintaining a healthy, comfortable, and safe cooking environment. It involves actively removing stale air and pollutants, and in some cases, providing a supply of fresh air to replace it, all while contributing to energy efficiency and legal compliance.