How to clean your cooker hood – guide for grease filters and carbon filters

At Tovenco, we know how important it is to keep your range hood in top condition – both to maintain a fresh cooking environment and to ensure maximum performance. Our range hoods are designed to be easy to maintain, but for them to perform optimally, it’s important to clean the filter regularly. Grease and dirt accumulated in the fan can not only impair its performance but also pose a fire risk. Regular cleaning ensures that the fan continues to suck up cooking odors effectively and keeps the kitchen fresh. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to best clean both grease filters and carbon filters.

Why is it important to clean the cooker hood?

The kitchen fan is constantly working to remove grease, vapors and cooking fumes from the air. When grease and dirt build up in the filter, the fan becomes less efficient, which can lead to:

• Poorer ventilation when grease and dust clog the filter, reducing airflow.
• Increased fire risk as grease accumulations in the filter can catch fire at high temperatures.
• A dirty filter does not capture the food effectively, which can cause bad odors in the kitchen.

To avoid these problems, it is important to clean both grease filters and carbon filters regularly.

How to clean the kitchen hood grease filter

The grease filter in your Tovenco fan plays a crucial role in keeping your kitchen free of cooking mess and grease build-up. Our metal filters are designed to be easy to maintain and are dishwasher safe. We recommend cleaning them in an empty dishwasher to avoid spreading grease to other kitchen utensils. These filters come in different materials and require different cleaning methods.

1. remove the filter

The grease filter is usually located on the underside of the fan and is easy to remove. Check the manual of your cooker hood if you are not sure how to do this.

2. clean the filter

• Polyester filters are fragile and should be washed by hand in warm water with detergent. If the filter starts to lose its shape or gets holes, it should be replaced.
• Metal filters can usually be cleaned in a dishwasher. Place it in an empty dishwasher to avoid grease sticking to other kitchen utensils. If the filter starts to drip condensation, it may be time to replace it.

3. Dry and replace the filter

Grease filters should be cleaned at least once a month to maintain optimal performance. Allow the filter to dry completely before reinstalling it in the range hood. A damp filter can reduce the efficiency of the fan.

How to clean the cooker hood carbon filter

Carbon filters are used in fans without extraction (recirculation fans) and are responsible for absorbing cooking fumes and odors. There are two types of carbon filters: disposable filters and washable filters.

1. check if the filter is washable

• Disposable filters need to be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on how often you cook.
• Washable carbon filter can be cleaned and reactivated.

2. clean the filter

Our washable charcoal filters are designed to last and can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher. To maintain maximum efficiency, the filter should be reactivated in the oven at 150°C for 2-3 hours after cleaning. You can clean it by:

• Place it in the dishwasher (use the Eco program and regular dishwasher detergent).
• Alternatively, the filter can be cleaned by hand in warm water with detergent.

3. reactivate the carbon filter

After washing, the carbon filter needs to be reactivated to function optimally again:

• Let it air dry completely.
• Place it in the oven at 150°C for 2-3 hours.
• Allow it to cool down before fitting it back into the cooker hood.

Cleaning the outside and inside of the cooker hood

The outside of the fan should be wiped weekly to avoid grease build-up. The inside of the fan should be cleaned every two months or more often if necessary.

To keep the whole fan fresh, you should also clean the cover and the inside of the fan:

• Wipe the outside of the cover with a soft cloth and a mild detergent.
• Using a damp cloth, wipe the inside of the fan where grease and dirt may have accumulated.
• If possible, gently clean the fan blades with a soft brush or sponge.

Executive summary

Cleaning your cooker hood regularly will improve your cooking experience and extend the life of your hood. Do you have questions about which filter is suitable for your fan, or do you want advice on cleaning? Contact us at Tovenco, and we will help you find the best solution for your kitchen.