How To Clean Your Extractor Hood and Filters
A clean extractor hood is essential for maintaining a fresh and healthy kitchen environment. Over time, grease, grime, and odours can build up, reducing the efficiency of your extractor hood and potentially causing unpleasant smells. Regular cleaning of both the hood and its filters ensures optimal performance and prolongs the life of the appliance. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean your extractor hood and filters.
1. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start, gather the necessary cleaning supplies:
- Dish soap or degreaser
- Warm water
- Baking soda (optional)
- Soft cloths or sponges
- A non-abrasive brush
- A bucket or sink
- Paper towels
2. Turn Off the Extractor Hood
For safety reasons, ensure the extractor hood is turned off and unplugged if possible. This prevents any electrical accidents during the cleaning process.
3. Remove the Filters
Most extractor hoods have removable filters. These are usually metal or charcoal filters that trap grease and odours.
Steps to Remove Filters:
- Consult your extractor hood’s manual for specific instructions on how to remove the filters.
- Typically, you can slide or unclip the filters from the hood.
4. Clean the Filters
For Metal Filters:
- Soak in Warm Soapy Water: Fill a sink or bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap or degreaser. Soak the metal filters for about 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub with a Non-Abrasive Brush: After soaking, use a non-abrasive brush to scrub away any remaining grease and grime.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the filters thoroughly with warm water and let them air dry completely before reattaching.
For Charcoal Filters:
- Replace When Necessary: Charcoal filters cannot be washed and reused. Instead, they need to be replaced regularly, typically every 6-12 months, depending on usage.
5. Clean the Extractor Hood
While the filters are soaking, clean the rest of the extractor hood.
Steps to Clean the Hood:
- Wipe Down Exterior Surfaces: Use a cloth dampened with warm soapy water or a mild degreaser to wipe down the exterior surfaces of the hood. Focus on areas with visible grease buildup.
- Clean the Interior: Carefully wipe down the interior surfaces, including the fan and any other accessible parts. Be cautious around electrical components.
- Use Baking Soda for Tough Grease: If you encounter stubborn grease, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub gently with a sponge or cloth.
6. Rinse and Dry
After cleaning, rinse any soapy residue from the hood with a damp cloth. Dry all surfaces thoroughly with a soft cloth or paper towels to prevent streaks and water spots.
7. Reattach the Filters
Once the metal filters are completely dry, reattach them to the extractor hood. Ensure they are securely in place before using the hood again.
8. Regular Maintenance Tips
To keep your extractor hood and filters in top condition, follow these regular maintenance tips:
- Clean Filters Monthly: Clean metal filters once a month to prevent heavy grease buildup.
- Replace Charcoal Filters: Replace charcoal filters every 6-12 months, depending on usage.
- Wipe Down Regularly: Wipe down the exterior and interior surfaces of the hood weekly to prevent grease accumulation.
- Check for Functionality: Periodically check that the fan and lights are working correctly.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning of your extractor hood and filters is essential for maintaining a clean and efficient kitchen environment. By following these steps, you can ensure that your extractor hood operates at peak performance, effectively removing grease, odours, and smoke from your kitchen. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your appliance but also contributes to a healthier and more pleasant cooking space.