Commercial Kitchen Filtration
15 Feb 2026
Retrofitting ESP Units into Existing Commercial Kitchen Extraction Systems
Retrofitting ESP units into existing commercial kitchens is a common requirement, particularly where odour complaints, planning conditions, or fire risks...

Retrofitting ESP units into existing commercial kitchens is a common requirement, particularly where odour complaints, planning conditions, or fire risks need to be addressed. However, successful retrofits require careful consideration of space, airflow and installation constraints.
Allowing Space for Ductwork Adaptors
One of the most common retrofit issues is insufficient space for ductwork transitions between existing ductwork and the ESP unit. Properly designed adaptors are essential to maintain airflow performance and prevent turbulence.
Adequate space must be allowed for smooth reducers or expanders, straight duct runs into the ESP, and access for maintenance and removal. Attempting to force an ESP into a confined space without suitable duct transitions can severely reduce performance.
Understanding Existing Airflow and Fan Capability
Before specifying an ESP retrofit, the existing fan duty and duct sizes must be assessed. The ESP introduces additional resistance into the system, which the fan must be capable of overcoming while still delivering the required airflow.
Failure to account for this can result in reduced canopy capture, poor ESP performance, and increased system noise.
Practical Installation Constraints
Retrofit projects must also consider restricted plantroom or ceiling space, safe delivery of equipment to site, and structural access limitations. Correct ESP selection and early coordination are key to avoiding costly installation issues.

We design and supply complete kitchen-extract and industrial air-filtration systems that quietly solve grease, smoke and odour, and keep you compliant. Since 2004, our team has supported restaurants and operators across the UK and Europe with specification, install support and ongoing maintenance.

We design and supply complete kitchen-extract and industrial air-filtration systems that quietly solve grease, smoke and odour, and keep you compliant. Since 2004, our team has supported restaurants and operators across the UK and Europe with specification, install support and ongoing maintenance.

We design and supply complete kitchen-extract and industrial air-filtration systems that quietly solve grease, smoke and odour, and keep you compliant. Since 2004, our team has supported restaurants and operators across the UK and Europe with specification, install support and ongoing maintenance.

Emergency ESP Replacement Following Restaurant Fire
Emergency ESP Replacement Following Restaurant Fire Project Overview Extechnology was appointed to supply a rapid replacement ESP solution following a fire at a commercial restaurant kitchen. The fire had damaged the existing extraction and filtration equipment, leaving the restaurant unable to operate until the system was replaced. With business downtime directly affecting revenue and day-to-day operations, the project required a fast and straightforward solution that would allow the restaurant to reopen as quickly as possible. As the existing extract system had already been designed around a specific airflow requirement, the replacement ESP equipment needed to provide a like-for-like solution that could integrate easily into the existing setup without unnecessary redesign work or site modifications. The Challenge The restaurant required an urgent replacement of the damaged ESP equipment within a very short timeframe in order to minimise disruption to the business. Key challenges included: Rapid specification and supply of replacement ESP equipment Minimising operational downtime and financial losses Matching the existing airflow and system performance requirements Avoiding unnecessary ductwork or system alterations Supporting a fast-track installation and recommissioning programme With pressure to reopen quickly, maintaining speed throughout specification, processing and delivery was critical to the success of the project. The Solution Extechnology worked closely with the client and installation team to quickly identify a suitable like-for-like ESP replacement based on the existing system airflow and operational requirements. Using the original system information, the replacement ESP unit was selected to maintain the required airflow performance while integrating directly into the existing extraction arrangement. This simplified both specification and installation, avoiding delays associated with redesign or major system modifications. The focus throughout the project was to keep the process straightforward and efficient. Once the system requirements were confirmed, the replacement ESP equipment was rapidly processed and delivered within a short lead time to support the installation programme and help return the kitchen to operation as quickly as possible. Technology Used Like-for-like commercial kitchen Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) Existing extraction system airflow configuration retained Washable ESP filtration technology for grease and smoke removal Compatible integration with existing ductwork and extraction layout Project Outcomes Rapid turnaround from enquiry to delivery Minimal downtime for the restaurant Fast-track installation and recommissioning Reduced disruption and business losses Successful reopening within a short timeframe Happy client and fully operational kitchen Consultant Notes The replacement ESP equipment was selected to match the airflow and operational characteristics of the original system, allowing the installation to proceed without significant modifications to the existing extract arrangement. By maintaining a like-for-like approach, the project avoided unnecessary complexity and enabled a faster overall delivery and installation programme, helping minimise disruption to the client’s business operations.

Hook, Camden Town
Extechnology delivered an odour control solution to support planning and neighbour acceptance while keeping pressure drops predictable.

Hoxton Hotel, Holborn
High‑efficiency ESP stages with low static and washable cells, supporting reliable operation and simplified servicing for a busy hospitality environment.
Discover More Insights
Discover More Insights

Electrostatic Precipitator
Jun 1, 2026
Emergency Replacement Of ESP Unit
When a commercial kitchen experiences a fire or major extraction issue, the priority is usually simple: Get the business back open as quickly as possible.

Electrostatic Precipitator
Jun 1, 2026
Emergency Replacement Of ESP Unit
When a commercial kitchen experiences a fire or major extraction issue, the priority is usually simple: Get the business back open as quickly as possible.

Electrostatic Precipitator
May 21, 2026
ESP Filtration for Different Cooking Styles: Light, Medium and Heavy Duty Kitchens
Not all commercial kitchens operate at the same duty level. Cooking style and intensity directly affect grease and smoke production, which must be reflected...

Electrostatic Precipitator
May 21, 2026
ESP Filtration for Different Cooking Styles: Light, Medium and Heavy Duty Kitchens
Not all commercial kitchens operate at the same duty level. Cooking style and intensity directly affect grease and smoke production, which must be reflected...

Odour Control
Apr 22, 2026
BS6173 and DW172 Checklist
If you work around commercial kitchens, you’ve probably heard DW172 and BS6173 mentioned a lot. They’re not just box-ticking standards — they’re what keep kitchen extract systems safe, compliant, and actually fit for purpose.

Odour Control
Apr 22, 2026
BS6173 and DW172 Checklist
If you work around commercial kitchens, you’ve probably heard DW172 and BS6173 mentioned a lot. They’re not just box-ticking standards — they’re what keep kitchen extract systems safe, compliant, and actually fit for purpose.
Call Us Now
London Office Address:
London Phone Number:
Email Address:
Call Us Now
London Phone Number:
Email Address:
Call Us Now
London Office Address:
London Phone Number:
Email Address:



