How often does a kitchen fire suppression system need inspection?
Every six months is the common requirement. NFPA 17A and NFPA 96 — the standards most U.S. fire codes adopt — call for a trained technician to inspect and service the wet-chemical system over your cook line semiannually, and after any discharge.
Updated September 29, 2026
At each semiannual visit
- Detection line and fusible links checked, and links replaced on the schedule the standard sets
- Nozzles checked for aim, blockage and grease caps
- Agent tank and cartridge checked
- Manual pull station and automatic gas or power shut-off tested
- A dated service tag left on the system
Between visits
- Keep the pull station clear and visible
- Don't move cooking equipment out from under its nozzles
- Keep your Class K extinguisher mounted near the cook line and inspected
Call sooner when
- The system discharges — even partly — it needs service and recharge before you cook again
- You add, move or swap cooking appliances under the hood
- The service tag is out of date
Who decides
Your local fire marshal or authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) decides what applies to your kitchen — check with them and your insurer.
Questions
Is this the same company as hood cleaning?
Usually not. Fire suppression is serviced by fire protection companies; hood cleaning is a separate trade. Most kitchens need both on their own schedules.
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