How to properly care for a kitchen hood?

It might seem that a kitchen hood does not need much care. As a rule, it is wiped with a damp cloth to remove grease and dirt that has appeared on its housing. 

Few people know that inside there is a filter that is responsible for absorbing unpleasant odors. It is he who is usually very dirty and, in order for the equipment to work properly, it must be thoroughly cleaned. What else should be done to enjoy the good performance of this equipment for a long time? Here’s how to properly care for it!

Cooker hood – the basics of care

All equipment in the kitchen wears out and gets dirty over time. No matter how often and intensively you use them, it is certainly worth taking care of them so that they serve us for as long as possible. In the case of the hood, what matters above all is regular washing and cleaning of the filter that is inside it. This ensures that the equipment works flawlessly and effectively absorbs unpleasant odors. 

The frequency of cleaning the hood should depend on how often you use it. It is assumed that if you use it several times a day, it should be removed once a week. It is worth remembering that even if you do not use it very often, it is located directly above the cooktop or other type of stove. Consequently, it is exposed to the constant influence of moisture and grease, which, of course, settles on its surface, which is why regular maintenance is so important.

How to effectively clean the hood?

Cleaning the hood should begin with the removal of dirt that is on its surface. As a rule, the dirtiest part is the grille, as well as the casing. It is enough to wipe them with a wet cloth with dishwashing liquid. This will effectively get rid of greasy stains.

Next, it is worth taking to its interior. Then do not forget to unplug the device from the power supply. This will give you the assurance that you will not be electrocuted. Also remember not to clean the hood housing with a sharp sponge, so you can avoid scratching the equipment.

For tough dirt, you can also use special preparations and foams, which are used for stubborn dirt in the kitchen. You can find them in well-stocked home chemical stores. Later comes the time for maintenance or replacement of the filter, which is located inside. Inside each hood is a grease, dust and moisture absorber. To remove it, the top layer of the unit must be removed. It is worth remembering that a functioning filter has a direct impact on the performance of the hood. 

When it comes to filters, there are two types to choose from, the so-called disposable ones, which should be replaced once every two to three months, and a metal one, which can be cleaned under running water with dishwashing liquid. When the dirt is particularly strong, you can soak it in a bowl of warm water and detergent.

However, that’s not all, it’s also worth remembering the carbon filters, which are also included in this kitchen appliance. They are designed to purify the air that enters the hood. This type of filter is not designed to be cleaned, so when it wears out, it should be replaced immediately with a new one. If you use the hood not very often, its life is significantly extended, but it is always worth checking its condition. How often do you need to replace the carbon filter? As a rule, this is determined by the manufacturer, and the information can be found on the packaging.

main photo: unsplash.com/Sidekix Media