Clean Your Range Hood in 15 Minutes

If the range hood lacks regular maintenance, the filter and oil cup will quickly accumulate dirt, leading to decreased suction and lingering odors. Actually, using the right method, even stubborn oil stains can be removed in just fifteen minutes. Today, I'll share a simple and effective method for cleaning the range hood.

Q1 | What are the dangers of a filter being so greasy that it 'drips oil'?

If the range hood filter accumulates oil over a long period, it can catch fire within seconds when near an open flame; once ignited, the fire intensifies rapidly.

Q2 | Three Most Practical Cleaning Methods (Safe and Handy)

Method 1

• Remove the mesh panel → Soak in warm water (not boiling) + a small amount of dish soap + baking soda for 10–15 minutes.
• Gently scrub the dirt with a soft brush (do not use a steel wool ball, as it can scratch the aluminum mesh).
• Rinse with clean water, air dry, and reinstall.

Method 2

• Spray degreaser onto a cloth first, then wipe the machine surface, vent edges, and oil drip tray.
• Clean the oil cup: Pour out the oil, wash with dish soap, wipe dry, and reinstall.
• Finish by wiping away any remaining cleaner with a damp cloth.

Method 3

• Recirculating type (no duct): Replace the activated carbon filter every 3–6 months based on usage; an old filter means no suction.
• Ducted machine: Check if the exhaust duct is flattened, loose, or has oil buildup; if necessary, hire a professional to clean the duct or replace the duct clamp.

Q3｜How often should it be cleaned?

• Filter: generally once a month
• Daily habit: Turn it on 1–2 minutes before cooking; keep it running for 5–10 minutes after cooking to help clear residual smoke.

Q4｜When should you find a technician for inspection/repair?

• Still weak or loud noise after cleaning (fan wheel eccentricity, bearing issues).
• Discover oil dripping, strange odor persists (severe internal oil buildup, hose problems).
• Recirculating type still not working after replacing the new carbon filter.
• Exhaust hose appears flattened, loose, leaking oil, or wall top yellow stains getting wider.

To reduce the cleaning burden, in fact, just after each use while the body is still warm, lightly wipe with a slightly damp cloth (when oil stains are heavy, apply a small amount of neutral detergent to the cloth), then wipe clean with water and dry; this simple, light habit done each time can prevent oil stains from solidifying, avoiding the formation of thick old oil layers in the future.