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While most service businesses fight for visibility, commercial kitchen exhaust cleaning operates in a hidden, high-profit niche. Fire codes require restaurants to clean their hood systems every 1-3 months, creating guaranteed repeat business. With startup costs under 5,000andjobsaveraging∗∗5,000andjobsaveraging∗∗300-$1,500**, this is one of the most overlooked offline opportunities. Here’s how to dominate this essential service.
Why Hood Cleaning is a Recession-Proof Business
🔥 Legal Mandate: NFPA 96 fire code enforcement is tightening nationwide
💰 Premium Pricing: 25−25−50 per linear foot of ductwork
🔄 Recurring Revenue: Restaurants need 4-12 cleanings annually
🛡️ Low Competition: Only 1 qualified cleaner per 50+ restaurants
Industry Insights:
- Average job takes 2-4 hours
- Profit margins exceed 60%
- Commercial kitchens grow 7% annually (IBISWorld)
Getting Started: Your Professional Launch Plan
1. Essential Equipment (3,000−3,000−8,000 Investment)
| Equipment | Cost | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Hydro-jetter | $2,500 | Grease removal at 3000 PSI |
| Scaffolding | $800 | Access tall hood systems |
| Degreaser | $15/gal | Commercial-grade chemicals |
| Inspection Camera | $300 | Document before/after |
| Liability Insurance | $1,200/yr | Required for commercial work |
Pro Tip: Lease equipment initially until you land 5+ clients.
2. Certification & Compliance
- IKECA Certification: $600 (increases credibility)
- Local Licensing: Often requires fire marshal approval
- EPA Compliance: Proper grease disposal procedures
3. Service Offerings & Pricing
| Service | Price Range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Hood Cleaning | 300−300−800 | Quarterly |
| Full Exhaust System | 1,200−1,200−2,500 | Annually |
| Emergency Degrease | $500+ | As needed |
| Filter Replacement | $15/filter | Monthly |
Upsell Opportunity:
Offer “Fire Marshal Compliance Packages” with documentation.
Marketing That Lands Restaurant Contracts
Guaranteed Client Acquisition Strategy
- Fire Marshal Partnership: Get listed as a preferred vendor
- Door-to-Door Cold Calls: Visit restaurants at 2-4PM (between rushes)
- “Free Inspection” Hook: Use thermal camera to show grease buildup
Digital Presence Essentials
- Google Business Profile: Tagged as “commercial kitchen service”
- YouTube Channel: Post shocking grease removal videos
- LinkedIn Outreach: Connect with restaurant franchise managers
Referral Program:
“Refer another restaurant, get 1 free filter change”
Daily Operations Breakdown
Sample Client Schedule:
- 7AM: Breakfast diner ($450)
- 11AM: Hotel kitchen ($800)
- 3PM: Brewpub exhaust system (1,200)∗∗Total:1,200)∗∗Total:2,450 (8 hours)**
Key Efficiency Tip: Cluster clients by geographic area to minimize travel.
Real Operator Success Story
Darnell W. (Houston, TX) started with:
- Used pressure washer ($1,200)
- 10 cold calls per day
After 18 months:
✅ 3 full-time crews
✅ $35,000/month revenue
✅ Contracts with 4 national chains
His secret: “I provide laminated inspection certificates—restaurants post them proudly for health inspectors.”
Overcoming Industry Challenges
⚠️ Late Payments: Require 50% deposit from new clients
⚠️ Grease Disposal: Partner with rendering companies
⚠️ Staff Safety: Invest in non-slip boots and respirators
Scaling Your Business
- Add Related Services:
- Grease trap cleaning (250−250−500 per service)
- Kitchen fire suppression testing ($150/system)
- Franchise Model: Train operators in new territories
- National Accounts: Pitch franchise restaurants
Hidden Profit Centers
🔸 Filter Subscription: Monthly replacement service
🔸 Emergency Call-Outs: $200/hour minimum after hours
🔸 Equipment Sales: Supply brushes and degreasers to clients
Final Thoughts
Restaurant hood cleaning offers higher profits with less competition than residential pressure washing. With increasing fire safety regulations and a booming restaurant industry, this business can scale to $500k+/year with just 2-3 crews. The grease will always flow—and so will your revenue.
