What is the relationship between the makeup air supplied and the amount of exhaust air in commercial kitchen exhaust systems?

In commercial kitchen exhaust systems, the relationship between the makeup air supplied and the amount of exhaust air is approximately equal. This balance is crucial for maintaining proper ventilation and ensuring safety within the kitchen environment.

When exhaust systems remove air from the kitchen, it's essential to replace that air with an equal amount of makeup air to prevent pressure imbalances that can lead to issues such as backdrafts or the entry of harmful gases from outside. The makeup air helps to ensure that the kitchen operates efficiently while maintaining good air quality and comfort for kitchen staff.

If the makeup air is less than the exhaust air, it could lead to negative pressure that might cause other issues, such as contaminants being drawn into the kitchen from outside or inefficient operation of kitchen equipment. Conversely, if there is significantly more makeup air than exhaust, it can create positive pressure conditions, which can disrupt the ventilation system's effectiveness and create drafts.

Thus, having the makeup air approximately equal to the exhaust air helps achieve a balanced and effective ventilation system that meets the specific needs of a commercial kitchen.