Demand Control Kitchen Ventilation
Traditionally, ventilation systems have operated at one speed regardless of how hard the appliances are working. Demand Control Kitchen Ventilation (DCKV) systems respond to variations in stove use, allowing the two-speed or variable fans to regulate exhaust depending on how many burners are working.
DEMAND CONTROL KITCHEN VENTILATION INCENTIVES
for commercial foodservice
Customer Incentives
- Up to 5,000 CFM:
$1,200 per unit
- 5,001 to 10,000 CFM:
$3,000 per unit
- 10,001 to 15,000 CFM:
$4,400 per unit
Bonus incentives exclusively for retrofit units
Up to 5,000 CFM
Incentive increased
from $1,200 to
$1,700
5,001 CFM to 10,000 CFM
Incentive increased
from $3,000 to
$6,400
10,001 CFM to 15,000 CFM
Incentive increased
from $4,400 to
$9,200
Service Provider Incentive
Equipment Eligibility
- Retrofit units only; new construction installations are not eligible
- Must use natural gas space heating
- Commercial food preparation or processing
Work With a Trusted Service Provider
Locate qualified professionals who are experienced with Union Gas programs. These trusted providers are ready to help you assess the best energy-efficient equipment solutions for your business.
Find a Professional
Apply for Equipment Incentives
The process is easy. Simply complete the online application. After you submit it, a Union Gas Energy Conservation Advisor will contact you within 5 business days to review your application and discuss next steps.
More Information About Demand Control Kitchen Ventilation
DCKV optimizes the energy efficiency of an HVAC system by reducing the exhaust and make-up air unit fan speed in the hood system.
How Demand Control Kitchen Ventilation Works
DCKV uses sensors that are put in place to detect cooking activity taking place under the exhaust hood. These sensors determine the minimum amount of exhaust air required to capture and contain effluent from the cook line.
Some DCKV now uses variable frequency drives based on exhaust temperature. This new enhancement allows for varying airflows throughout the day. By measuring temperature, steam, and smoke in the hood, DCKV adjusts the fan speed accordingly to save both fan energy and conditioned air.
Benefits
- DCKV hoods automatically start when cooking appliances are turned on and stop as soon as cooking appliances cool down, minimizing energy consumption
- Improves the efficiency of a building's HVAC system resulting in a better environment for employees and customers
Maintenance
Like all components of an HVAC system, DCKV requires routine maintenance and inspections. Managers should schedule inspections and maintenance on a semiannual basis with a technician from the manufacturer or service provider.
Routine maintenance should include cleaning the filters in the hood. Some DCKV systems automatically detect and send a warning signal if exhaust hood filters are clogged and need to be cleaned.
Building Applications
DCKV for commercial kitchen hoods is ideal for both commercial and institutional buildings with large kitchen facilities, including restaurants, hospitals, nursing homes, and schools.