When you start noticing grease and debris falling from your range hood, it is time to clean its filter. A commercial range hood filter needs more frequent cleaning than its residential counterpart. The range hood is responsible for removing excess gas, odours, and steam from your kitchen. The appliance also has an important role in removing heat. Keeping the filter clean will help this system work optimally, thus maintaining your kitchen’s environment in a favourable condition.
So, how to clean range hood filters? This guide provides you with a step-by-step process.
1. Remove the Filters
You will have to remove the filter for thorough cleaning. Range hood filters are designed to be easily removed. The system is designed in a way that you can remove the filters by pulling at a tab
2. Soak the Filters in Water
Fill your sink with boiling, soapy water and add 1/4 cup baking soda to it. The sink should be large enough for the filters. Else, you a large bucket. Wash the filters with your hands. Let the filters soak in the water for some time before you start washing them. This will allow the grease to break down. Use a scourer or brush to scrub clean the filters. It is not recommended to use any chemicals for the job. They can affect the mesh, thus impeding the filtering capacity.
3. Dishwasher Cleaning
Once the grime has been removed from the filters, place them in the dishwasher. Let it run on a hot cycle. Check if your dishwasher has the pots and pans cycle and choose it for the best results.
4. Drying
Next, you should leave the filters out in the air to dry. Once cleaned and dried, they will sparkle and look shiny. Let the filters dry fully before refitting them
When to Clean or Replace Your Range Hood Filters?
Whenever you notice that the range hood is not working properly, it may be a sign that the filters need cleaning. The filters should be cleaned every few months. A commercial rangehood will need to be cleaned more often than the one used in a residential kitchen. Your range hood may also alert filter cleaning or replacement with a warning light.
You should consider cleaning or replacing these filters when you notice the following signs:
• Grime or grease builds up on the surrounding walls or cabinetry.
• Smoke is not removed from the kitchen when the range hood is turned on.
• Cooking odours are not removed from the kitchen.
• There are signs of bends, warping, holes, or dents in the filters or mesh.
• There is a visual sign of grime or grease on the filters.
If you are regularly cooking on the stovetop, you should consider changing the filters every 6 months. If you don’t cook as often, it is recommended to change them annually. Still, you should regularly check for any signs of grease or grime build-up or damages.
Range Hood Filters & Dishwashers
Many people are uncertain about placing these filters in a dishwasher. You can use your dishwasher to clean the filters. it is recommended to select the hot cycle for pots and pans to get the best results. Make sure to first soak and clean the filters in hot soapy water and remove the grime.
So, it is recommended to check your range hood filters every few weeks for any signs of grease build-up. If you notice dirt or grease, remove the filters and clean them using the methods mentioned above. These are simple steps and should be easy for you to follow. Keeping the filters clean can help maintain a cleaner kitchen environment and improve the performance and efficiency of the appliance.