Regular maintenance tasks to keep your range hoods running efficiently.
Turn off power at the breaker. Remove filters to access the fan housing. Wipe the fan blades and interior housing with a degreasing cleaner. Grease buildup on the fan blades reduces extraction efficiency and can cause the motor to overwork. Inspect the duct connection for grease accumulation.
Metal mesh grease filters should be soaked in hot water with degreasing dish soap monthly. For heavy cooking, use a baking soda solution. Aluminum filters can also be run through the dishwasher. Charcoal filters in recirculating hoods cannot be cleaned and must be replaced every 3-6 months.
Every 6 months, remove the fan cover and wipe down blades with degreaser. Grease accumulation reduces airflow by up to 40% and becomes a fire hazard. Inspect the duct connection for gaps.
Check the duct tape and seals at hood-to-duct joints annually. Leaking ducts push grease-laden air into walls and attics. Replace with foil HVAC tape, never standard duct tape which degrades in heat.