Warning Signs Your Ducting System Might Be Endangering Your Workspace

In industrial kitchens, food processing plants, and healthcare facilities, an efficient ducting system is crucial to maintaining air quality, safety, and energy efficiency. But over time, even the best systems degrade — and when they do, the risks can be serious.

1. Strange Odours or Excessive Heat

Unusual smells or heat buildup around vents may indicate poor airflow. When hot air isn’t expelled properly, it creates an uncomfortable work environment, stresses equipment, and impacts worker productivity.

2. Grease Build-Up Inside the Ducts

In commercial kitchens, grease naturally accumulates. But if left unchecked, it can become a severe fire hazard. Thick layers of grease reduce airflow, lower system efficiency, and pose a major safety threat.

3. Uneven or Weak Extraction

If suction seems weaker in some areas, your ducting system may have leaks, clogs, or structural wear. These issues lead to poor air circulation and increased contamination risk — a major concern during health and safety inspections.

4. Unusual Noises or Vibrations

Rattling, humming, or clunking sounds often mean parts of the system are loose or misaligned. These mechanical faults can lead to breakdowns or sudden system failures if ignored.

5. No Maintenance in 5+ Years

Even stainless steel ducting needs regular checks. Most systems should be inspected at least every 3–5 years. Neglecting maintenance can shorten lifespan and raise energy costs significantly.

The Hidden Costs of Ignoring the Problem

• Increased fire risk from grease and sparks
• Air contamination and unsafe working conditions
• Higher energy bills from overworked equipment
• Damage to machinery and products due to trapped heat

📞 Act now! Contact Aussheetmetal for a full system inspection or upgrade to high-performance stainless steel ducting (grades 304 & 316), tailored for Australian industry standards.

👉 www.aussheetmetal.com.au

☎️ 0403 587 189

📧 quinn@aussheetmetal.com.au