Rangehood Cleaning and Maintenance Guide
A well-maintained rangehood is essential for keeping your kitchen clean and fresh. Proper care not only ensures optimal performance but also extends the life of your rangehood. Here’s a simple guide on how to maintain your rangehood keep it in top shape.
1. Clean the Filters Regularly
The filters in your rangehood play a crucial role in trapping grease, smoke, and odors. Without regular cleaning, they can become clogged, reducing your rangehood’s efficiency and posing a potential fire hazard. It’s recommended to clean them every 2-3 months. There are two common types of rangehood filters: mesh and baffle.
Mesh Filters:
Mesh filters are usually made from multiple layers of fine aluminum mesh, designed to capture grease particles.
How to Clean Mesh Rangehood Filter
- Remove the Filters: Most mesh filters are easy to remove by releasing the latch or sliding them out of their slots.
- Soak in Warm, Soapy Water: Fill a basin with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Submerge the filters completely and let them soak for 10–15 minutes. The warm water helps loosen the trapped grease.
- Scrub with a Soft Brush: After soaking, use a soft brush, such as a toothbrush or non-abrasive scrubbing pad, to gently scrub away the grease. Be sure to clean both sides of the filter thoroughly.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the filters under warm running water to remove all soap and grease residue. Shake off excess water, then let the filters air-dry completely before reinstalling them. You can also pat them dry with a microfiber cloth to speed up the drying process.
- Avoid the Dishwasher: While some people may suggest using the dishwasher, it’s not recommended for mesh filters. The strong water jets and dishwasher detergents can damage the delicate mesh, causing warping or weakening over time.
Baffle Filters:
Baffle filters, typically made from stainless steel, are sturdier than mesh filters and are often found in high-end or commercial-grade rangehoods. They use a series of baffles to force grease and air through, trapping the grease in channels.
How to Clean Baffle Rangehood Filters
- Remove the Filters: Like mesh filters, baffle filters are easy to remove by sliding them out or unlocking their latches.
- Soak in Warm, Soapy Water: For manual cleaning, soak the filters in warm water mixed with a degreasing dish soap. Let them sit for at least 15–20 minutes to break down stubborn grease trapped in the channels.
- Scrub Thoroughly: Use a soft sponge or brush to scrub the surface of the baffle filter, paying special attention to the ridges and grooves where grease can accumulate. Since baffle filters are more durable, you can scrub a bit more vigorously than with mesh filters.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly with warm water to wash away all soap and grease. Just like with mesh filters, allow them to air-dry completely or use a soft towel.
- Dishwasher Safe: Unlike mesh filters, most baffle filters are dishwasher-safe due to their stainless steel construction. Place the filters in the bottom rack of the dishwasher and run a regular wash cycle. However, avoid using abrasive dishwasher detergents to prevent discoloration or damage to the steel.
By regularly cleaning your rangehood filters every two to three months, you’ll maintain optimal airflow, ensuring the rangehood operates effectively and safely.
Please Note – Different Rangehoods are made with different materials. All models should come with cleaning instructions specific to that model. Confirm with your manufacturer before following any instructions.
2. Wipe Down the Exterior
Rangehoods can accumulate grease and grime on the outside. Use a gentle cleaner and cloth or microfiber to wipe down the exterior weekly to prevent build-up.
Cleaning solutions you can use to clean your rangehood include:
- Dishwashing liquid and baby oil
- Vinegar and oil
- Glass Cleaner
- Water and microfiber
3. Check the Fan and Motor
The fan is responsible for circulating air, so it’s important to ensure it’s working efficiently. Listen for unusual noises, and if the fan seems sluggish, consider having it inspected by a professional.
You can test the effectiveness of your rangehood by boiling water to a strong roll. Watch the steam as its rises. It should be entering your rangehood. If it is spilling off to the sides. You may have an issue.
4. Clean the Ducts
If your rangehood is ducted, the ducts can also accumulate grease over time. It’s best to have them professionally cleaned once a year to avoid blockages and maintain proper airflow. Call Sydney Rangehoods for more info on how to clean your rangehood duct.
5. Replace Charcoal Filters (If Applicable)
For ductless rangehoods, charcoal filters trap odors and need to be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on usage. Unlike normal filters which are more of an aesthetic vent, charcoal filters are doing the filtering internally before passing the air back into the home. They are exposed to a lot of smoke and grease, eventually clog and need to be replaced. If not maintained, smoke will not be filtered, may become a health hazard and will start to damage other appliances and surfaces in your home
6. Inspect and Tighten Components
Over time, screws and fixtures can loosen due to vibration. Every few months, inspect your rangehood and tighten any loose components to avoid rattling or reduced efficiency. If installed correctly, its likely you wont have to do this for some time or at all. In the chance a screw comes loose, this avoids ay further damage taking place.
7. WARNING – Avoid Harsh Chemicals
When cleaning your rangehood, avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the surface or internal parts. Always opt for non-toxic, kitchen-safe cleaners.
By following these simple steps to maintain your rangehood, you can ensure your rangehood stays efficient and lasts longer, providing you with cleaner air and a better cooking experience. If your having problems or would like to have your rangehood serviced Contact Sydney Rangehoods today to book an inspection.
