A grease filter is a device designed to capture and remove grease particles from the air, primarily used in recirculating kitchen extraction systems. It prevents grease buildup in ductwork and ensures cleaner air circulation within residential and commercial kitchens.
Grease filters are essential components in kitchen ventilation systems, particularly in recirculating setups where extracted air is filtered and returned to the room rather than expelled outside. They are commonly found in range hoods, cooker hoods, and extractor fans.
Synonyms:
- Grease trap (context-specific)
- Kitchen grease filter
Relevant Building Regulations and Approved Documents:
In the UK, the installation and maintenance of grease filters are governed by Part F (Ventilation) of the Building Regulations, which outlines requirements for ventilation systems in residential and non-residential buildings. Additionally, BS EN 61591:2019 provides standards for household range hoods, including grease filtration efficiency.
Practical Examples:
- In a residential kitchen retrofit, a recirculating cooker hood with a grease filter is installed to comply with Part F of the Building Regulations, ensuring adequate ventilation without the need for external ducting.
- During a home extension project, a kitchen extractor fan with a high-efficiency grease filter is added to meet ventilation requirements while maintaining indoor air quality.
Related Terms:
- Recirculating Extraction System: A ventilation system that filters and recirculates air back into the room rather than expelling it outside.
- Ducted Extraction System: A ventilation system that expels air outside the building through ductwork, often bypassing the need for grease filters.
- Air Change Rate: The rate at which air in a room is replaced, measured in air changes per hour (ACH), relevant for ensuring effective ventilation.
- Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny particles in the air, including grease, that can affect air quality and health.
- Carbon Filter: A filter used in recirculating systems to remove odours, often paired with grease filters for comprehensive air purification.
- Building Regulations Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power): Relevant for ensuring energy-efficient ventilation systems in residential and commercial buildings.
- BS EN 61591:2019: A British Standard specifying safety and performance requirements for household range hoods, including grease filtration.