What's included
- Outside stainless steel canopy surfaces
- Hood lights' exterior lenses
- Wall and ceiling surfaces around the hood
Not included
- Hood interior, plenum, filters, ducts and exhaust fan
- Fire-suppression system components
Why it matters
The hood canopy is front and center in open kitchens.
More on why it matters
Exterior grease buildup between professional hood cleanings is a common eyesore.
How AELC providers clean kitchen hood exteriors
Every provider follows the AELC Source-Control Method: capture the dust, don't move it.
- IdentifyConfirm the kitchen is closed and the hood is cool.
- ProtectCover the cook line.
- CleanDegrease exterior stainless, then polish with the grain.
- VerifyPhotograph.
How often, and how it's priced
Recommended frequency
| Commercial kitchens | Every 1 to 3 months |
Pricing is local
Your local AELC Certified Provider sets the price for your space. What affects it:
- How many kitchen hood exteriors you have
- Height and access
- Dust, grease or buildup
- One-time reset or recurring schedule
DIY tips between professional visits
- Wipe hood exteriors daily with a stainless-safe cleaner.
Safety: when work stops
- Never disturb fire-suppression nozzles, links or piping.
See all red-light conditions and what AELC does not do.
Who needs it most
Hood Exterior Cleaning: FAQ
Do you clean inside the kitchen hood?
No. Hood interiors, filters, ducts and fans are cleaned by certified hood-cleaning contractors under fire code.
Last updated October 4, 2026. Reviewed by the AELC Method team. Local services are performed by independently owned AELC Certified Providers. Above Eye Level Cleaning.