Small cafés and tight fitouts often struggle with smoke spillage and odour because there isn’t much headroom for canopy overhang or ductwork. This guide shows how to get strong capture in low ceilings—without blowing noise levels or budget.
Why low ceilings make capture tricky
- Reduced overhang: Less space for the canopy lip to “catch” rising plumes.
- Cross-drafts: Doors, windows and air-conditioning can pull fumes out of the capture zone.
- Short duct runs: Turns and tight risers add resistance and can reduce airflow.
Buying guide: the right canopy for tight spaces
- Choose a proven profile: Start with a quality wall-mounted exhaust canopy with efficient capture and easy-clean internals. See the Standard Exhaust Canopy.
- Optimise overhang & position: Even 50–100 mm more forward projection can materially improve capture in low rooms.
- Keep the face free: Avoid shelving or signage that interrupts the capture face.
- Lighting: Use integrated LED task lighting to improve visibility with low ceilings and reduce heat load.
Make-up air (stop smoke roll-out)
Balanced supply prevents negative pressure. Introduce tempered make-up air so it flows across the cooking line into the canopy—not from behind staff or directly at the face.
Ducting & fans for low headroom
- Straight and smooth: Prioritise the straightest route possible. Every tight elbow adds resistance.
- Access for cleaning: Provide clean-out points where elbows are unavoidable.
- Fan selection: Choose a fan matched to system resistance and noise limits for small dining rooms.
Quick selection matrix (café constraints)
| Constraint | Recommendation |
|---|
| Ceiling height < typical | Wall canopy with optimised overhang; slimline lights; balanced supply air. |
| Short duct path with elbows | Enlarge critical sections; minimise bends; include clean-outs. |
| Neighbour noise risk | Low-noise fan, isolation mounts, and discharge well clear of receivers. |
| Frequent fry/grill use | High-efficiency filters and a cleaning schedule that staff can keep. |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mounting too high “to gain headroom” (capture suffers).
- Siting supply grilles behind cooks (air pushes smoke into the room).
- Routing ducts with sharp, unnecessary bends.
Next steps
Get a café sizing quote: Send us your cookline and ceiling height—we’ll recommend a canopy profile, overhang and fan package that captures first time.
FAQs
What if my ceiling is very low?
Use a compact wall canopy with optimised overhang, slim lighting and balanced make-up air to keep capture strong.
Can I put shelves in front of the canopy?
Avoid anything that interrupts the capture face. Keep the intake zone clear for best performance.
Do I always need make-up air?
Balanced supply prevents smoke roll-out and door slam—especially in compact cafés. It’s part of good design practice.
