Kitchen extractor fans, also known as range hoods, have become an essential appliance in modern cooking spaces. These fans help to remove foul odors, heat, smoke and grease from the kitchen, thereby keeping the kitchen environment clean, safe and comfortable. In this article, we will discuss how kitchen extractor fans work, their benefits and how to maintain them.
How do kitchen extractor fans work?
Kitchen extractor fans work by sucking all the smoke, fumes, and grease from the air using a powerful fan and filter system. These fans are installed above the stove and are connected to ductwork which leads outside the house. The airflow is captured by the fan and the filter helps to absorb any moisture and dust from the air.
Different types of extractor fans include chimney, island, downdraft, and wall-mounted. Wall-mounted extractors are the most common, and they are installed on the wall above the stove. Island extractors are fitted onto the ceiling over an island stovetop and are vented through the roof. Downdraft extractors are installed directly into the cooktops while chimney extractors sit against the wall with its ducts and vent to the outside.
What are the benefits of kitchen extractor fans?
1. Remove pollutants and protect indoor air quality – When you cook, the oils, smoke, and other particles emanating from the food can quickly build up and affect indoor air quality. A kitchen extractor fan helps to filter out these airborne pollutants and improve the air quality in your home.
2. Keep your kitchen clean – Excess heat and moisture produced during cooking can lead to a dirty and greasy kitchen. Kitchen extractor fans help remove humidity and moisture, which can cause mold growth. This prevents the build-up of grease and bacteria on kitchen surfaces and ensures that your kitchen stays clean and hygienic.
3. Improve kitchen safety – Smoke and gas that are generated from cooking can be hazardous to human health. Kitchen extractor fans help to remove these fumes from the kitchen, ensuring that the kitchen is a safe and healthy environment.
4. Enhance the aesthetic of your kitchen – Kitchen extractor fans come in a wide variety of designs and add an attractive feature to your kitchen. From sleek stainless steel to custom wood, you can find an extractor fan that complements your kitchen decor.
How do you maintain kitchen extractor fans?
To ensure that your kitchen extractor fan continues to function efficiently, you need to maintain it properly. Here are tips to follow:
1. Clean the filter regularly – The fan filter should be cleaned regularly using warm, soapy water. When cleaning, you should remove the filter first and let it soak in soapy water for some time. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly and dry it before placing it back in the extractor fan.
2. Check for grease buildup – Grease can easily build up in the ductwork and fan blades. This can cause the fan to become inefficient and can also pose a fire hazard. It’s important to clean the grease buildup in the ductwork and fan blades regularly.
3. Inspect the fan blades – Check the fan blades for wear and tear as they can become loose or bent. If you notice any signs of damage, it’s best to call a professional to replace the blades as this may require specialist tools.
4. Test for airflow – To ensure that the extractor fan is working at optimal efficiency, test for airflow by lighting a candle or match and seeing if it gets pulled towards the fan.
Conclusion
Kitchen extractor fans are an essential appliance in keeping the kitchen clean, safe and comfortable. They help to remove pollutants, keep the kitchen clean, improve safety and add to the aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Maintaining the fan properly ensures that it works efficiently and lasts longer. As such, it’s important to invest in a good quality extractor fan and maintain it regularly to ensure it performs its intended functions optimally.