Fall in Seattle: Why Cooler Weather Means More Grease Buildup in Restaurant Hoods

When fall rolls into Seattle, kitchens heat up — literally. Customers head indoors, comfort food hits the menu, and fryers, grills, and ovens work overtime. But as temperatures outside drop, the conditions inside your kitchen’s exhaust system change too — and not for the better.

Cooler weather and higher humidity cause grease vapors to condense faster. Instead of staying airborne and passing through the exhaust, that vapor sticks to ductwork, hoods, and fans, forming a heavy layer that hardens over time.

The result: thicker buildup, reduced airflow, and a higher risk of fire.

Why It Happens

1. Cooler air speeds condensation. Grease vapors cool more quickly, sticking to metal surfaces inside your hood and duct system.

2. Seattle’s humidity doesn’t help. Moist air creates a sticky film that traps grease and dust, making each layer harder to clean.

3. More indoor cooking. With windows closed and grills going, your exhaust system works harder — but clogs faster.

4. Less ventilation. Fall and winter mean fewer open doors or fans, so exhaust hoods handle nearly all the airflow.

Why It Matters

Grease buildup is a major fire hazard — it’s one of the leading causes of restaurant fires nationwide. According to NFPA 96, commercial kitchens must clean their exhaust systems at specific intervals depending on cooking volume and type. Ignoring those intervals doesn’t just risk fines — it risks lives and your business.

Buildup also affects day-to-day performance. Restricted airflow traps heat and smoke, making kitchens uncomfortable and straining your fan motors. If you’ve noticed your exhaust fan getting louder or less effective, grease buildup could be the cause.

Schedule a Fall Hood Cleaning Before the Holidays

SPW Hood Cleaning helps Seattle’s restaurants stay safe, compliant, and ready for inspections year-round. Our certified technicians clean every part of your exhaust system — from filters to fans — so you can focus on cooking, not compliance.

Schedule your fall cleaning before the holiday rush to keep your kitchen safe and your airflow strong.

Call +1-206-829-0701 or visit https://www.spwhoodcleaning.com/contact to book your service today.