Backguard & Flue Risers

Back Risers: What You Need to Know

Flue risers have become a critical part of the commercial kitchen, protecting the health and comfort of employees while reducing demands on the HVAC system. Most are designed for a specific model of cooking equipment, so be sure you consult the owner's manual for your range or charbroiler to find the right riser. With that knowledge, choosing one of these for your kitchen is a snap. However, if you don't have access to that information or want further direction, read on for some tips.

Common Questions About Flue Risers

How do I choose the right flue riser measurements?

These are fairly simple pieces – essentially just tall boxes that affix to your cooking equipment. Because they must match up with that equipment, the first and most important consideration is found in the dimensions of the unit.

The first determining factor is the width of both your range and the riser you're considering. The two numbers should match up, ensuring the entire range surface or charbroiler grate is well vented.

Following width is height. Most flue risers listed here will be at least two feet tall. The higher the slotted vent cap is located, the closer to your ventilation hood it will exhaust heat and gases. Typically, the closer you can get the riser to the hood, the better the unit will remove heat and vapors from the operator area; also, more air can be pulled over top of the range, meaning there is more air to fuel the burner flames.

In certain circumstances, it may be beneficial to have a shorter riser, which enables more varied use of the area above that unit. In that case, we offer products no more than a few inches tall, clearing up plenty of wall space. However, it's important to note you shouldn't mount bulky, solid items above the vent cap, as this can impede the flow of heat and gases to the hood, deflecting those out into your kitchen.

Should I get flue riser shelves

If you want to user larger items like mixers or microwaves above your range, or if you simply need a convenient place to stash things such as spice jars or hot mitts while you work, opt for a tall unit with shelves. These are designed specifically to provide stability and storage without interrupting airflow through the flue riser. Verify the weight capacity of the shelves before you buy if you plan to store heavy items.

If you buy a unit without shelves and decide to add them later, or if you want to mount something else above your range, it's important only to install those items in spaces designated by the manufacturer. Drilling holes or screws in the flue can interrupt the flow of air, decreasing the efficiency of the unit and cooking equipment.

Are range flue risers and charbroiler flue risers the same?

• Range flue risers are the most prevalent type and account for most units that don't specify equipment. These are designed to sit on the back edge of the top of the range, with a gap between the front of the riser and the cooking surface that permits air intake.
• Charbroiler flue risers are constructed to accommodate a very different type of cooking. Rather than mounting on the top of the unit, they fit into the back of it, enabling them to pull smoke and other gases from the cooking area and bring air in to feed the flames.

Advantages of Back Risers

Improved Ventilation: Enhances airflow by directing heat and gases toward the ventilation hood, improving kitchen air quality.

Health and Comfort: Helps reduce heat buildup, ensuring a more comfortable environment for kitchen staff.

Custom Fit: Designed to match specific cooking equipment, ensuring efficient ventilation and performance.

Space Efficiency: Some models come with shelves for additional storage, freeing up valuable counter space.

Versatile Use: Available in various sizes to accommodate different kitchen layouts and equipment needs.

Easy Installation: Most models are straightforward to install, allowing quick integration into existing kitchen setups.