Commercial Exhaust Fans in Santa Monica

Why commercial exhaust fans matter

Effective exhaust is the backbone of a healthy, compliant commercial space. The right fan and duct design remove heat, grease, smoke, odors, moisture, and harmful gases while stabilizing building pressure so doors close properly and conditioned air isn’t wasted. In Santa Monica, meeting ASHRAE 62.1 ventilation rates, California Title 24 energy rules, and NFPA 96 for commercial kitchens isn’t optional—it’s essential for inspections, safety, productivity, and guest comfort.

What #1 AC Guys does

• Design‑build and plan/spec projects for new construction and retrofits
• Fan sizing, duct static analysis, curb adapters, vibration isolation, and sound control
• Installation, replacement, and code upgrades for rooftop, inline, and centrifugal fans
• Make‑up air integration to prevent negative pressure and back‑drafting
• Controls and VFDs for demand‑controlled ventilation and energy savings
• TAB (testing, adjusting, balancing) with documented airflow reports
• Troubleshooting, repairs, bearings and belts, motors, EC motor retrofits
• Preventive maintenance plans tailored to usage and occupancy

Systems we design and service

• Kitchen hood exhaust (UL 762 upblast), grease duct, and listed components with NFPA 96 compliance
• Parking garage exhaust with CO/NO2 sensors, variable control, and code ventilation rates
• Restroom and locker room exhaust for odor/moisture control and mold prevention
• Inline and mixed‑flow fans for offices, retail, and multi‑tenant build‑outs
• Warehouse/process exhaust, heat and smoke relief, and high‑load ventilation
• Laboratory and light industrial exhaust with fume capture and filtration strategies
• Energy recovery and make‑up air units coordinated with central HVAC

Our process

1. On‑site assessment: We survey existing fans, ductwork, hoods, electrical, and roof conditions; measure static pressure and airflow targets.
2. Engineering & selection: We model airflow needs, right‑size equipment, and specify fans, curbs, and controls that meet code and your budget.
3. Permits & coordination: We support plan check, Title 24 compliance forms, and coordinate with GCs, hood/fire suppression vendors, and electricians.
4. Installation: Safe rigging, proper flashing and sealing, isolation mounts, and airtight duct connections to minimize noise and leakage.
5. Startup & commissioning: Motor rotation, speeds, amperage, VFD tuning, and airflow balancing with delivered reports.
6. Training & turnover: We train your team on operation, cleaning schedules, and maintenance intervals, then set reminders and service plans.

Compliance and documentation

We align designs with ASHRAE 62.1, California Title 24, and NFPA 96 where applicable, produce submittals and cut sheets, and provide TAB reports on completion. Our goal is a smooth inspection—no surprises, no rework. We also prepare preventative maintenance logs that help pass future audits and keep equipment warranties intact.

Why choose #1 AC Guys

• 4th‑generation, family‑owned: 80+ years of engineering heritage in Southern California.
• Factory‑trained technicians: Hands‑on training with major manufacturers (Fujitsu, Mitsubishi Electric, Midea, Gree, Haier) and extensive field experience with leading exhaust brands.
• Complex projects, solved: We thrive on tight timelines, occupied buildings, and challenging roof or shaft conditions.
• Local Santa Monica expertise: Familiar with Westside plan check nuances and coastal corrosion considerations.
• Healthy air, healthy business: Our core mission is healthier indoor air—supporting safety, comfort, and productivity.
• Transparent pricing: Clear proposals, options to fit budgets, and lifecycle cost perspectives.

Brands and integrations

We service and replace all major exhaust and ventilation brands, including Greenheck, CaptiveAire, Loren Cook, PennBarry, and Twin City Fan. We integrate fans with make‑up air units and building HVAC controls, applying VFDs, EC motors, and demand ventilation strategies to reduce energy use without sacrificing air quality.

Maintenance that prevents downtime

Grease buildup, worn belts, failing bearings, or incorrect fan speed can tank airflow and trigger citations. Our planned maintenance includes cleaning, lubrication, belt and sheave checks, motor amperage, vibration inspection, and airflow verification—keeping systems safe, quiet, and efficient.

Service area

We proudly serve Santa Monica—Downtown, Ocean Park, Mid‑City, Pico, Sunset Park, and North of Montana—as well as greater Los Angeles County and nearby areas, including Orange County, Ventura County, and Western Riverside County.

Get a code‑ready quote

Ready to upgrade or fix your commercial exhaust fan in Santa Monica? Contact #1 AC Guys for a site visit and a clear, engineered plan. We’ll deliver right‑sized airflow, reliable performance, and compliance you can prove—backed by our family’s four generations of HVAC excellence.