How to clean a kitchen exhaust fan
Kitchen exhaust fans are essential for removing smoke, grease, and odours from the kitchen. However, over time, they can become clogged with grease and dirt, which can reduce their performance and create a fire hazard. It is important to clean your kitchen exhaust fan regularly to keep it working properly and safely.
Here are the steps on how to clean a kitchen exhaust fan:
Turn off the power to the exhaust fan. You can do this by unplugging the fan or turning off the breaker at the circuit panel.
Remove the filter. The filter is typically located at the front of the fan. It is removable and can be cleaned in the sink with dish soap and water.
Clean the fan blades. You can clean the fan blades with a damp cloth and dish soap. If the blades are heavily soiled, you may need to use a degreaser.
Clean the inside of the fan housing. You can use a damp cloth and dish soap to clean the inside of the fan housing. If the housing is heavily soiled, you may need to use a degreaser.
Replace the filter. Once the filter and fan are clean, replace the filter and turn the power back on.
Here are some additional tips for cleaning your kitchen exhaust fan:
Use a degreaser. A degreaser will help to remove grease and dirt from the fan blades and housing.
Wear gloves and safety glasses. When cleaning the fan, be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from chemicals and debris.
Clean the fan regularly. It is important to clean the exhaust fan on a regular basis, especially if you cook frequently. This will help to prevent the buildup of grease and dirt.
Here is a more detailed guide on how to clean the different parts of your kitchen exhaust fan:
Filter
The filter is typically located at the front of the fan. It is removable and can be cleaned in the sink with dish soap and water. If the filter is heavily soiled, you may need to soak it in a solution of dish soap and water for 30 minutes before cleaning it.
Fan blades
You can clean the fan blades with a damp cloth and dish soap. If the blades are heavily soiled, you may need to use a degreaser. To clean the blades, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and dish soap. If you are using a degreaser, be sure to follow the instructions on the product label.
Fan housing
You can use a damp cloth and dish soap to clean the inside of the fan housing. If the housing is heavily soiled, you may need to use a degreaser. To clean the housing, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and dish soap. If you are using a degreaser, be sure to follow the instructions on the product label.
Once you have cleaned the fan blades and housing, be sure to rinse them thoroughly with water to remove any soap or degreaser residue.
Once the fan is clean and dry, you can replace the filter and turn the power back on.
How often should you clean your kitchen exhaust fan?
The frequency of how often you need to clean your kitchen exhaust fan will depend on how often you cook and what types of foods you cook. If you cook frequently, you may need to clean the fan every week or two. If you cook less frequently, you may be able to get away with cleaning the fan every month or two.
If you cook foods that are high in grease, such as fried foods, you will need to clean the fan more often. The grease from these foods can build up on the fan blades and housing and reduce the fan's performance.
Conclusion
Cleaning your kitchen exhaust fan is an important part of maintaining a safe and healthy kitchen environment. By following the tips above, you can keep your exhaust fan clean and working properly.
Cheque out our guide about kitchen filter cleaning.