Filters in the extractor hood are an important part of the appliance that ensures the air in your kitchen stays clean. There are different types of filters available, each having a specific function. Below, we discuss the different types of filters available for extractor hoods.
Grease filter
A grease filter is the most common type of filter in extractor hoods and is used to remove grease and other particles from the air. This prevents grease from accumulating in the exhaust pipe and prevents the cooker hood from clogging. Grease filters are usually made of metal or plastic and can usually be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Carbon filter
A carbon filter is used to remove odours from the air. This type of filter is usually used in recirculation hoods, where the air is filtered and blown back into the room. Carbon filters are not washable and should be changed regularly, depending on the intensity of use.
Metal filter
A cooker hood metal filter, also known as an aluminium filter or metallic filter, is a type of filter often used in cooker hoods. The metal filter's function is to filter the air sucked through the cooker hood and trap grease particles. The metal filter consists of several layers of aluminium mesh that filter grease, oil and other particles from the air. Using a metal filter prevents grease and oil from accumulating in the hood and spreading this around the kitchen.
A cooker hood metal filter has the advantage that it is relatively easy to clean. In most cases, the filter can be cleaned with soap and warm water or placed in the dishwasher. However, it is important to clean the metal filter regularly and check for any damage. If the metal filter is damaged, it may malfunction and new filters need to be installed.
Plasma filter
A plasma filter is an advanced type of filter used to purify the air. This type of filter uses plasma technology to clean the air of various substances such as grease, odours, bacteria, pollen and other particles.
Odour filter
An odour filter is used to remove the smell of, for example, cooking odours from the air. This type of filter is similar to a carbon filter and should be replaced regularly.
Universal filter
A universal filter is a filter that can be easily cut to size and can therefore be fitted in several types of extractor hoods.
What types of extractor hoods are there?
There are two types of extractor hoods: recirculation hoods and air extraction hoods. Recirculation hoods purify the air and blow it back into the room. This type of cooker hood needs a carbon filter to clean the air.
Air extraction hoods suck the air out of the kitchen and discharge it to the outside. This type of extractor requires a grease filter to prevent the exhaust pipe from clogging.
Extractor hood filters cleaning, replacement and maintenance
Cleaning the extractor hood and replacing filters is important to ensure that the appliance continues to function properly and the air stays clean. It is recommended to clean the grease filter regularly, for example once a month, depending on use.
Carbon filters should be replaced at least once a year, depending on usage. It is important to change your filter on time, otherwise the filter will become less effective and the air will no longer be filtered properly.
Exactly how often you should clean the grease filter depends on how intensively you use the extractor hood. If you cook often and produce a lot of fat, it is advisable to clean the filter more often. A grease filter can usually be easily cleaned in the dishwasher, but you can also clean the filter by hand with warm water and soap. Make sure the filter is thoroughly dry before putting it back in the extractor hood.
Replacing a carbon filter is a little more complicated. It is important to choose the right type of carbon filter suitable for your cooker hood. Filter replacement varies by brand and type of extractor hood, but in general, the carbon filter should be replaced once a year. It is important to consult the user manual of the extractor hood before you start replacing the carbon filter.
Besides cleaning and replacing filters, it is also important to clean the extractor hood itself. You can clean it with warm water and soap, but there are also special cleaning products for extractor hoods. It is important to clean the extractor hood regularly to prevent dirt from accumulating and to ensure that the appliance continues to function properly.
