The extractor hood is essential in a kitchen. It allows the suction of grease and smoke from cooked dishes and thus ventilates the kitchen.
For extractor hoods, two types of evacuation exist: either evacuation by extraction or by recycling. To choose your hood, you have to check the installation of the house. If it is an extractor hood, the air duct should not be too long or twisted.
The maintenance of a hood is essential, because it will capture grease and odors. The suction system is important for air aeration. When the filters are too clogged, they will prevent the vacuum system from working properly.
An extractor hood, also known as a range hood, serves the essential function of filtering out smoke, grease, and odors from the cooking process, keeping your kitchen environment clean and healthy. A key component of this system is the hood’s filter, which traps airborne particles and grease. Regular cleaning or replacement of these filters is typically a necessary part of hood maintenance. But what if you notice that your extractor hood’s filters are always clean, even after extended use? Does it signify a problem? This article will delve into this unusual phenomenon.
Understanding the Role of Filters
Before diving into the reasons, it’s important to understand the role of filters in your extractor hood. Filters trap particles, grease, and other pollutants that could potentially damage your hood’s motor and prevent them from recirculating in your kitchen. They need regular cleaning or replacement to maintain their effectiveness.
Reasons for Clean Filters
If your hood’s filters remain clean after considerable use, it could indicate a few possibilities:
1. Low Cooking Volume
The amount of grease and particulates generated depends largely on your cooking style and frequency. If you rarely cook, or primarily use methods that produce little smoke or grease (like boiling or steaming), your filters may stay clean for longer.
2. Effective Ductwork
Extractor hoods can be either ducted or ductless. Ducted hoods vent air outside, while ductless hoods recirculate it after filtration. In a well-functioning ducted system, most pollutants get vented out, resulting in cleaner filters.
3. Filter Misalignment or Incorrect Installation
If your filters are always spotless, it could mean they’re not properly positioned or installed. Misalignment might allow smoke and grease to bypass the filters, potentially damaging other parts of your hood.
What to Do If Your Filters Are Always Clean?
- Check the Installation: Ensure your filters are properly installed and aligned. Refer to your extractor hood’s user manual for specific instructions on filter placement.
- Test the Fan: Turn on the hood and hold a piece of lightweight paper (like a tissue) up to the hood. If the hood’s fan is working, it should hold the paper in place.
- Check Ductwork: For ducted hoods, inspect your ductwork for blockages or leaks that could be affecting performance.
- Professional Assistance: If you can’t identify the issue but suspect your hood isn’t functioning correctly, consider getting a professional to inspect it.
CHECK THE METAL FILTER
There can be several types of filters on an extractor hood: for example, the metal filter will have the role of cleaning grease and preventing odors from spreading throughout the room.
These filters are located just below the hood, they can be easily removed to wash them. It is possible to wash them once a month in the dishwasher to remove all the grease on them and thus allow better ventilation.
If a filter is too damaged or broken, it is advisable to change it.
CHECK THE CHARCOAL FILTER
The carbon filter is found in all recycling hoods, it allows the filtered air to return to the room. It is located under the metal filter and allows the filtration of odors.
There are several shapes depending on the hood model, it can be a black box containing the coals or foam.
It is best to change this part every 6 months for the hood to work properly.
Clean filters in your extractor hood are not always a sign of a problem, especially if your hood seems to be working effectively and you’re not experiencing any noticeable issues like lingering smoke or odors. However, if you’re concerned about its functionality, it’s always worth investigating to ensure your kitchen remains a clean and safe environment.