How to Clean Your Filters

Regular maintenance of range hood filters is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and preventing the buildup of grease and other contaminants. Cleaning or replacing the filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations can help to prolong the life of your range hood and improve indoor air quality in your kitchen. They help to capture grease, smoke, and other airborne particles produced during cooking, preventing them from spreading throughout the kitchen and home. These filters come in various types, including:

Aluminum Mesh Filters

Made out of metal and aluminum mesh and are designed to trap grease particles as the air passes through them. They need regular cleaning to maintain their effectiveness. Depending on your cooking habits, it is recommended to clean mesh filters every 1-2 weeks.

On average, after 2-3 years they will need to be replaced but this can vary depending on your cooking habits. Once you are no longer able to clean the filters and/or it is not collecting oil effectively anymore, it is recommended to replace them.

Stainless Steel Baffle Filters

Baffle filters are made out of stainless steel and have a series of ridges (or baffles) that help to trap grease and other particles as the the air passes through them.

Baffle filters are much more durable and are dishwasher safe, making them easier to clean and more reliable than other types of filters. Because of this, baffle filters are highly recommended for people who cook a lot and/or on gas cooktops.

Depending on your cooking habits, it is recommended to clean your filters every 1-2 weeks. Since they are made out of stainless steel, baffle filters do not need to be replaced over time as long as they are maintained and cleaned regularly.

Charcoal Filters

Also known as carbon filters, charcoal filters are designed to absorb cooking odors and smoke. These filters are only necessary if you have a recirculating range hood and are not meant to replace the filters designed for collecting oil.

Over time charcoal filters will become less effective as it becomes saturated with smoke and other odors. They are expected to last at least 6 - 12 months but can last longer depending on your cooking habits.

If you notice smoke being recirculated into your kitchen from the range hood then this is a sign to change your filters. Charcoal filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced once it no longer filters smoke and cooking odors.