When is a Type I hood not required for an appliance?

A Type I hood is designed specifically for use over cooking appliances that produce grease and smoke. This type of hood is essential in commercial kitchens to maintain air quality and ensure safety.

When the cooking appliance is electric, it generally does not produce the same level of grease and smoke as gas-fired appliances do. For this reason, electric cooking appliances may be exempt from the requirement of a Type I hood, as the potential for grease accumulation and hazardous emissions is significantly lower. Instead, electric appliances often require a Type II hood, which is suitable for handling heat and vapor but not necessarily designed to filter out grease.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for ensuring compliance with the mechanical code, as using the appropriate hood can significantly impact kitchen ventilation efficiency and safety.