In commercial kitchen ventilation, certifications aren’t just badges — they’re proof that the equipment you specify, sell, and install is safe, compliant, and ready to pass inspections in the toughest jurisdictions. For dealers, wholesalers, and installers, working with a manufacturer that holds the right approvals reduces risk, speeds up approvals, and prevents costly rework on-site.
NAKS, Inc.’s systems carry some of the most trusted listings and certifications in the industry. Here’s what each endorsement means and why it matters for your projects.
UL Listed: The Industry Benchmark for Safety
What it is:
UL Solutions is one of the most widely recognized Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLs) in the U.S. Its testing evaluates electrical safety, fire resistance, performance, and construction quality.
What it means for NAKS partners:
- Ensures NAKS hoods, fans, and components meet stringent national safety standards
- Speeds up AHJ inspections with instantly recognizable approvals
- Reduces liability and protects installers from failed inspections
UL is often the certification authorities look for first — especially in high-compliance markets.
ETL Listed: A Trusted Alternative to UL
What it is:
Intertek’s ETL mark is also NRTL-recognized and confirms that a product meets the same safety and performance standards as UL.
Why it matters:
- Accepted interchangeably with UL in most jurisdictions
- Offers flexibility when a project or AHJ requires one certification body over another
- Reinforces product credibility during plan review and inspection
ETL and UL test to the same standards — the difference is the testing body, not the safety level.
NFPA Compliance: Required for Fire Safety
What it is:
NFPA 96 and NFPA 17A outline requirements for ventilation and fire suppression systems in commercial kitchens.
Why NAKS partners care:
- Ensures systems meet national fire-protection codes
- Reduces risk of design errors or non-compliant installs
- Prevents costly fixes after an AHJ walk-through
Selling NFPA-aligned equipment builds trust with both inspectors and end users.
NYC COA / MEA: Approval for the Toughest Code Environment in the U.S.
What it is:
NYC’s Certificate of Acceptance (COA) and former MEA listings represent some of the most demanding engineering standards in the country.
Why this is a major advantage:
- Guarantees NAKS equipment is approved in one of the strictest jurisdictions
- Streamlines jobs for dealers servicing NYC metro markets
- Demonstrates superior engineering and manufacturing compliance
If it’s accepted in New York City, it’s accepted almost anywhere.
BBB A+ Rating: A Signal of Reliability and Support
What it is:
The Better Business Bureau’s highest rating for business ethics, customer service, and operational transparency.
Why it matters for B2B buyers:
- Confirms long-term reliability in manufacturing and service
- Signals dependable tech support, documentation, and partner assistance
- Reinforces that NAKS is a stable supplier for long-term relationships
When you’re choosing a ventilation partner, reputation matters — especially when you rely on that partner’s engineering and technical support.
Why These Certifications Matter for Dealers, Installers & Wholesalers
Every certification NAKS holds is designed to help you:
- Pass inspections the first time
- Reduce callbacks and risk
- Streamline quoting with compliant, pre-tested equipment
- Meet chain-restaurant and enterprise-level requirements
- Confidently specify equipment in any jurisdiction
Certifications aren’t a marketing claim — they’re a practical tool that protects your time, your reputation, and your customers’ operations.
NAKS, Inc.: Your Trusted Partner for Compliant, Code-Ready Ventilation Solutions
When your projects demand equipment that meets national code, passes local inspection, and works seamlessly with fire suppression, NAKS delivers. Our certified hoods, fans, and components are engineered for safety, reliability, and on-site efficiency — backed by documentation, drawings, and expert support every step of the way.
Need help to spec a certified hood system? Call NAKS at (855) 853-6367 and get code-ready equipment from a partner you can rely on.
