Your range hood is susceptible to splatters and grime because it sits right above your cooktop. This leads to grease accumulation and other sticky messes especially if it doesn’t receive the maintenance it needs.
When you establish a regular cleaning routine, your range hood becomes spotless and you don’t have to deal with this mess too often. If you need help, we have some basic maintenance tips for this appliance that will surely benefit you and your kitchen.
Replace the carbon filter regularly
If your hood relies on recirculation rather than extraction to refresh the air in your kitchen, then it’ll have carbon filters to deal with odors. These need to be replaces every three to six months, depending on your cooking habits. If you do a lot of frying, then they’ll need to be replaced more regularly.
Keep exhaust ducts clean
If your hood uses extraction to refresh the air in your kitchen, then it’ll be connected to a hole in a wall or window by an exhaust duct. Grease and other material can build up in this duct over time, so it should be cleaned at least every six months. However, this can be a little tricky, so you may want to enlist the services of a professional.
Use mild detergents
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning your range hood. Use gentle dish soap or an all-purpose cleaner to wipe the exterior. Abrasive cleaners can scratch and damage the surface, leading to rust or discoloration over time.
Clean the fan blades
The fan blades play a key role in removing smoke and odors. Dust or grease on the blades can decrease airflow. Use a damp cloth to wipe them down and remove any buildup.
Check the light bulbs
Ensure your range hood’s light bulbs are working properly. A burned-out light bulb reduces visibility, especially when cooking at night. Replace any burnt bulbs promptly to maintain a well-lit cooking area.
Get professional servicing as needed
As a general guideline, it is recommended to have your range hood professionally serviced at least once every 1-2 years. The exact frequency at which you should professionally service a range hood depends on several factors, such as how often you cook, the type of cooking you do, and the type of range hood you have.
