All know the role of an exhaust fan in the kitchen. It helps to keep the cooking area smoke and odor-free. However, proper maintenance and cleanliness are essential to keep the range hoods in good working condition. Of course, you use the kitchen exhaust fan to maintain ventilation in the kitchen area.
You also place it at a good height, so it does work great. But what we all often do is ignore kitchen exhaust cleaning significance. The dirt, dust, and grease accumulate over the range hoods with time. If left unaddressed and cleaning exhaust appliances like fans, motors, and filters are not done, the hood may stop functioning altogether.
Ways to Kitchen Exhaust Fan Cleanliness and Maintenance
The good news is that exhaust fan maintenance is easy. All you have to do is follow the simple strategies outlined below. So, let’s begin!!
Examine Wirings and Electrical Cords
It’s vital to ensure there is no extra electrical wiring that could cause the fan to bend or stay open on any of the sides. Also, look for cords or wirings that may be giving signs of distress. Ensure no cords are bent or twisted, and each of the electrical connections is safe.
In addition, the electrical wirings and cords must be kept away from any chemicals, hot surfaces, or grease to avoid short-circuits or any other hazards.
Consider Fan Blade Cleaning
Dirt, dust, and grease build not only on the kitchen surface but also on the exhaust fan blades. Of course, this will impact the performance of the motor and overall kitchen vent system. Regular cleaning will keep the motor in good working order and prevent it from overheating.
Sterile Air Filters
The air filters are the necessary part of the vent hood. They prevent smoke and particulates from entering and recirculating throughout the kitchen. For example, if you own a metal filter, degrease it with the soapy solution. After removing the grease, wipe the filter with a soft cloth and dry it.
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On the other hand, the cleaning process would be much likely the same if it is the charcoal filter. However, replacing the charcoal filters rather than cleaning them is always better. This is because, with time and with regular cleaning, it begins to lose its potency.
How to achieve this?
Begin with switching off the vent system. Let the fan cool down and use the soapy solution to wipe out the dust and grease accumulated on the fan blades. Rinse with water and wipe it off with a soft cloth. Remember to avoid touching or making any electrical appliances wet.
Regular Fan and Motor Lubrication is Vital
Preserving the kitchen exhaust fan’s functioning comes as the biggest concern for several homeowners or commercial restaurant businesses. Here, lubrication comes as the one key aspect. Focus on oiling the fan shaft, bearings, and motor. The fan shaft produces friction on housings.
This could further lead to fire hazards, thus impacting fan blades and the kitchen environment. If this occurs as the case, you may need to replace the entire kitchen exhaust fan system. Hence, it is always better to dampen oil bearings, motors, shafts, and valves. This will help to significantly increase the fan’s and overall vent system’s shelf-life.
Inspect Exteriors of Kitchen Exhaust Fan
Of course, exhaust fans are usually roof-mounted. They are more likely to experience winds, harsh weather, rain, severe cold, heat, and more. Thus, you need to monitor outer appliances as well. Look if there are any signs of corrosion wear or tear, and so on.
Furthermore, check if any airborne items have impacted the fan. Of course, such substances can pollute the kitchen air and must be eliminated. See if the panels or screws are tightened to avoid fan system crash or damage.
Install Kitchen Exhaust Fan Pivot
During regular kitchen exhaust cleaning and upkeep, there are chances that the fanbase may get damaged or chipped. So, see if this is a problem that needs to be addressed. The best solution to this concern can be installing the fan pivot. It allows the fan to remain inclined correctly, protecting the fanbase. Furthermore, it will help offer the necessary stiffness and safeguard the rooftop.
Learn Troubleshooting
Knowing how to diagnose and fix the appliance hassles always comes valuable. If you want to check if your exhaust fan is working efficiently or not, switch it off and then on for some time. Ensure it makes no noise. However, if there is noise, the problem can be with your motor or fan.
Understand Preventative Measures
We discussed earlier also that keeping the range hood working efficiently and lasting long requires the best possible care. Hence, you need first to read and follow the operational manual correctly. Besides, correctly installing the kitchen exhaust fan is the vital key to easy maintenance.
In addition, remember to clean the filters, vent, and exhaust body. Keep the fan off when it is not necessary to avoid unnecessary motor use.
Quick Inspection After Any Repairs or Maintenance
Being human, there always remains room for errors. This is something that even the experts agree on. When the routine cleaning and replacing of appliances is over, double-check that everything is at its right place and all the equipment is reinstalled properly.
Ensure that all exhaust fan screws, nuts, and bolts are secure. Also, ensure thorough cleaning and elimination of the dust, dirt, and grease. After all, anything left unattended could endanger you or your kitchen appliances.
Summing Up
From eliminating the heat cooking fumes to protecting kitchen shelves from odors and dirt, proper functioning of kitchen exhaust is vital. Furthermore, it helps to maintain the air quality and kitchen hygiene as well.
So, all of these tips focus on the significance of detailed examination and fixing the exhaust fan to let it function long. So, follow all these simple tactics, invest in proper cleanliness, and experience a new cooking experience every time. Hope you find this write-up helpful. Thanks for Reading!