Step-by-Step Guide to Maintaining Chemical Fume Hoods for Longevity

In any lab setting, safety and efficiency go hand in hand. One of the most essential tools for ensuring both is the chemical laboratory fume hood. These hoods are designed to safely ventilate hazardous fumes, vapors, and particles away from the user, making them a vital component in research, pharmaceutical, and industrial labs.

However, like any equipment, their performance relies heavily on regular maintenance. If you're looking to extend the life of your chemical laboratory fume hoods and keep them functioning at peak efficiency, here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you out.

1. Perform Daily Visual Checks

●     Look for any visible cracks, broken sashes, or unusual airflow sounds.

●     Ensure the airflow monitor is operational and not showing warnings.

●     Check if the sash is operating smoothly and stays at the right level.

2. Clean Interior Surfaces Regularly

●     Use a lab-safe cleaner to wipe down inner surfaces—especially if working with corrosive materials.

●     Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the surface or affect airflow.

●     Clean spills immediately to prevent buildup or chemical reactions.

3. Inspect Airflow Performance

●     Test airflow velocity weekly or biweekly using a variometer or anemometer.

●     Confirm that the hood meets your lab’s required face velocity (typically around 80–120 feet per minute).

●     Low airflow can signal blockages or fan issues that need attention.

4. Service Filters and Ductwork

●     If your setup includes pre-filters or HEPA filters, replace them as per manufacturer recommendations.

●     For ducted systems, schedule periodic inspections to remove accumulated particles or contaminants.

●     Poor ventilation not only reduces effectiveness but also increases health risks.

5. Calibrate Alarms and Monitoring Systems

●     Ensure that airflow alarms are calibrated correctly and tested monthly.

●     Faulty alarms can create a false sense of safety, putting users at risk.

●     If alarms are repeatedly triggered, investigate the root cause instead of silencing them.

6. Schedule Professional Inspections

●     Bring in a certified technician annually to inspect, test, and certify the unit’s performance.

●     Routine inspections can identify wear and tear or outdated parts before they become safety hazards.

Why Maintenance Matters

Consistent upkeep of chemical laboratory fume hoods ensures not just a safer workspace but also prolongs the life of the equipment—saving costs in the long run. Neglecting routine checks can lead to compromised experiments, regulatory issues, or, worse, hazardous exposure.

With just a little effort and scheduling, you can keep your chemical laboratory fume hoods running efficiently and protect both your people and your research for years to come.