Cleaning a kitchen exhaust fan from grease and oil buildup is far from an ordinary easy kitchen cleaning task. If you’ve ever dealt with the stubborn layers of grease accumulating on your vent hood, you know how tough it can be to remove them.
Restoring your exhaust fan to its original state requires not only time and effort but also precision and careful attention to detail. If you’re wondering about the most effective methods for kitchen exhaust fan cleaning and removing accumulated grease, you’re in the right place. We won’t just list the steps; we’ll go into the details of the cleaning process, sharing real-life experiences and practical tips you won’t easily find elsewhere.
Importance and Types Of Kitchen Exhaust Fans
Kitchen exhaust fans maintain clean air in the kitchen by removing odors, smoke, and airborne grease generated during cooking. They also help reduce grease buildup on surfaces and lower humidity levels, which can prevent mold growth and deter moisture-loving house bugs.
There are various types of kitchen exhaust fans, each suited for different needs:
1. Under-Cabinet Range Hoods:
These range hoods are installed under the upper cabinets, providing effective ventilation without occupying much space. They are ideal for small kitchens, where they can be seamlessly integrated into the kitchen design.
2. Wall-Mounted Range Hoods:
Wall-mounted range hoods are installed directly on the wall above the stove or cooktop. They are used when there are no cabinets above the stove and come in various designs to match different decor styles.
3. Corner Range Hoods:
Corner range hoods are installed in the corners of the kitchen, specifically designed for kitchens with unconventional layouts. Though less common, they are an excellent solution for tight spaces.
4. Insert Range Hoods:
These range hoods are fully integrated within a custom cabinet or design, becoming a part of the kitchen’s decor. They offer flexibility in design and allow for complete integration with the kitchen’s layout and aesthetic.
5. Smart Range Hoods:
Smart range hoods come equipped with modern technologies like smartphone connectivity and remote control. They can be programmed to operate automatically when they detect steam or odors, adding convenience to the cooking process.
6. Ductless Range Hoods:
Ductless range hoods recirculate air after filtering it through carbon filters. They are used when external ducting is not possible, though they are less effective at removing moisture from the air.
7. Ceiling-Mounted Range Hoods:
These range hoods hang directly from the ceiling and are used in open-concept kitchens. They provide additional space but require a high ceiling for installation.
8. Slide-Out Range Hoods:
Slide-out range hoods are installed within a cabinet and can be pulled out when needed. They are an excellent space-saving solution that does not compromise on ventilation efficiency.
How Grease and Oil Accumulate in the Kitchen Exhaust Fan
During cooking, heat causes oils and fats to evaporate, releasing tiny particles into the air. The kitchen exhaust fan pulls in this air, carrying the grease-laden particles through filters and the fan itself. The filters capture these greasy particles, while the fan continues to draw air out of the kitchen or recirculate it.
With continued use, grease and oil begin to accumulate on the filters and internal components of the exhaust fan, such as the fan blades and air ducts. This buildup forms thick layers of grease, which reduce the fan’s efficiency. If filters do not receive regular cleaning, they may clog, leading to poor airflow and diminished ability to remove odors and smoke.
Without a functioning exhaust fan in the kitchen, the following issues can arise:
- Grease and oil can accumulate on walls, ceilings, and cabinets.
- Over time, this buildup can damage surfaces.
- Cleaning the kitchen becomes more challenging, with increased chances of unpleasant odors and discoloration of wall paint.
- Grease accumulation can also raise humidity levels, attracting pests. These pests might be drawn to the old grease as a food source.
Kitchen Exhaust Fan Cleaning Steps
Regularly cleaning your kitchen exhaust fan is essential to maintain its efficiency in removing smoke, odors, and grease from your kitchen. Additionally, cleaning extends the life of the fan and prevents grease buildup that can hinder its performance. Here’s a detailed guide to cleaning your kitchen exhaust fan and removing accumulated grease:
Step 1: Disconnect Power
Safety comes first. Before you start cleaning, ensure that you disconnect the power supply to the exhaust fan.
- Unplug the exhaust fan from the electrical outlet.
- Turn off the dedicated power switch for the fan at the control panel.
- Double-check that no electrical source is connected to the fan before you begin.
Step 2: Remove the Grease Filter
The grease filter is where most of the grease accumulates, so it’s important to remove it for proper cleaning.
- Locate the filter in the exhaust fan.
- Use a screwdriver to loosen any screws holding the filter in place, if necessary.
- Gently pull out the filter and remove it from its position.
Step 3: Soak the Filter in a Cleaning Solution
Soaking the filter in a mixture of hot water and cleaning agents helps break down the grease and oil.
- Fill a large basin or sink with hot water.
- Add white vinegar or baking soda to the water.
- Submerge the filter in the mixture and let it soak for 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Scrub the Grease Off the Filter
After soaking, scrub the filter thoroughly to remove the accumulated grease.
- Use a stiff brush or sponge to scrub the filter.
- Focus on corners and areas with heavy grease buildup.
- Apply more cleaning solution to particularly dirty spots and continue scrubbing.
Step 5: Rinse the Filter with Water
Once you’ve removed the grease, rinse the filter thoroughly to eliminate any leftover cleaning residue.
- Rinse the filter under clean, running water.
- Ensure that water flows through all parts of the filter.
- Allow the filter to dry completely before reinstalling it.
Step 6: Clean the Internal Fan Blades
The internal fan blades require periodic cleaning as grease can accumulate on them as well.
- Use a cloth dampened with a suitable cleaner.
- Gently wipe down the fan blades and internal components.
- For stubborn grease deposits, use a small brush to remove them.
Step 7: Clean the Exterior of the Exhaust Fan
The exterior parts of the exhaust fan also collect dirt and grease, so they need regular cleaning.
- Use a soft cloth dampened with a mild cleaning solution.
- Wipe down the outer casing, focusing on buttons and control knobs.
- Dry the exterior thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth after cleaning.
Effective Homemade Recipes for Cleaning Kitchen Exhaust Fans
Using natural household cleaners can make the process easier, cheaper and safer. Here are some effective homemade mixtures that can be used to clean your kitchen exhaust fan and remove accumulated grease efficiently.
1. Baking Soda, Vinegar, and Dish Soap Mixture
Baking soda and vinegar are among the most effective natural substances for cutting through grease.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of baking soda
- ½ cup of white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of dish soap
Method:
- Mix the baking soda with the white vinegar.
- Add the dish soap to the mixture.
- Submerge the filter or greasy part in the mixture and let it soak for 20-30 minutes.
- Scrub the filter or surface using a stiff brush.
- Rinse with clean water and let it dry completely.
2. Citric Acid, Dish Soap, and Vinegar Mixture
Citric acid is known for its powerful grease-dissolving properties due to its strong acidity.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of citric acid
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of dish soap
Method:
- Mix the citric acid with the white vinegar and dish soap in a bowl.
- Submerge the filter or greasy surface in the mixture.
- Let it soak for 15-20 minutes.
- Scrub the filter thoroughly using a brush or sponge.
- Rinse with clean water and allow it to dry.
3. Baking Soda, Lemon Juice, and Olive Oil Mixture
This mixture is particularly effective for tackling tough grease.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
Method:
- Mix the baking soda with lemon juice to form a paste.
- Add the olive oil to the paste and mix well.
- Apply the mixture to the greasy areas and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub the area using a brush or sponge.
- Rinse the surface with warm water and let it dry completely.
4. Salt and White Vinegar Mixture
Salt is a natural abrasive that can help scrub away grease when combined with vinegar.
Ingredients:
- Coarse salt
- White vinegar
Method:
- Mix coarse salt with white vinegar.
- Submerge the filter in this mixture for 10-15 minutes.
- Use a brush to gently scrub the filter; the coarse salt grains will help scrape off the accumulated grease.
- Rinse the filter with hot water to remove the mixture and any remaining grease.
Note: Salt is a natural strong cleaning ingredient, but it should not completely replace other cleaning agents.
Final Words..
You can rely on simple homemade recipes to clean your kitchen exhaust fan effectively and eliminate accumulated grease. These natural mixtures, such as baking soda with vinegar, citric acid with dish soap, and baking soda with lemon juice, provide excellent results without the need for harsh chemicals. By regularly using these recipes, you can keep your kitchen exhaust fan clean and efficient, which will extend its lifespan and maintain a healthy, clean kitchen environment.
