Ventless pizza ovens: what to check before you buy

A ventless pizza oven can open up locations where a hood and duct are impossible or too expensive. It only works if your local officials accept it, so approval comes before the purchase.

What "ventless" means

A ventless oven is electric and has built-in filtration that treats the air leaving the oven, so it can operate without a traditional type I exhaust hood. In this catalogue the ventless models are the Middleby Marshall WOW! PS638E-V and the Lincoln DCTI 2500 countertop impingers, from $10,082.60 to $26,632.

The standard and who decides

Recirculating cooking systems are commonly evaluated to UL 710B. A listing to that standard is evidence for your inspector, not an automatic permit. The decision sits with your local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), typically the building or fire official, and your health department and landlord may have their own requirements.

Questions to settle before ordering

• Will the AHJ accept this specific model at this address? Get it in writing.
• Does the space still need general ventilation or make-up air for heat?
• Is the electrical service right for the model (voltage, phase, amperage)?
• What filter maintenance does the manufacturer require, and how often?
• Does your lease or insurer have conditions on cooking equipment?

Where ventless ovens make sense

Bars and taprooms, convenience stores, stadium and arena concessions, schools, hotels and leased retail units where a hood is not allowed. See all ventless ovens, or ask us to send the manufacturer documentation for your inspector with your quote.