This appliance is one of the most commonly used appliances in the home, but to ensure its proper functioning, all parts must be thoroughly cleaned from time to time.
The hood is one of the most frequently used appliances in the kitchen, as it is turned on almost every day. However, paradoxically, it is also one of the least pure. And it is often thought that wiping the front with a cloth is enough to remove the most noticeable stains, but this is far from the truth. Experts point out that whenever a hood is used, it should be cleaned superficially and Every 2 months it is advisable to do a deep cleaning.. And if the hood is not in perfect condition and has a large accumulation of fat, the smoke extractor may not work properly and the entire kitchen space may be filled with the smell and smoke of cooking. . Cleaning, which is especially important in the case of open kitchens if you want to avoid the whole house being filled with the smell of food.
How to properly clean a hood?
If you are going to thoroughly clean this appliance, you will have to disassemble some of the parts to get to all corners. It is also very important that the hood is unplugged and recently used, although you should ensure it is cool to avoid possible burns. Finally, We will have to focus on three areas: exterior, interior and filters.. Each part has special characteristics that determine how it can be cleaned.
Clean the filters
These are important details because These are devices that hold and reduce the number of particles in suspension. when cooking. These filters should be cleaned at least once every 2 months, since they are where the most grease accumulates. The first step for this will be to dismantle them. Although each hood has its own mounting system, they all typically have small tabs that you press on to remove the filters. If they are not too dirty, you can wash them under tap water using a brush or brush and a few drops of soap. Additionally, some filters are specifically designed to be dishwasher safe. However, if you have to clean them manually and the grease is very ingrained, you will have to use special degreasers. Spray the liquid over the entire surface and let it sit for a few minutes to soften the grease, then scrub with an abrasive sponge.
These filters should be cleaned at least once every two months.Another variant: Soak the filters for 20-30 minutes in a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar.. You can also replace the vinegar with bleach or a few drops of ammonia. After soaking for the specified time, you will see that the fat has softened and all you have to do is scrub them a little with soap and water to get them completely clean. However, an inconvenience that can arise with very large hoods is that the filters do not fit into the basin or basin and cannot be soaked. In this case, the solution is to fill 2 large pans with water and a few drops of lemon and bring it to a boil. When it comes to a boil, add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda and a few drops of dish soap. Then place the filters on top of the pans to soak them in the steam, which will gradually loosen any remaining dirt. You may have to repeat the process several times before you can rinse off any remaining grease under tap water. Yes indeed It is very important that after cleaning the filters, you allow them to dry completely before replacing them. in the hood.
The inside of the hood is also cleaned.
Taking advantage of the fact that the filters have been removed from the panels, now is the time to clean the inside of the hood. Without a doubt, this area can be very difficult to access, but cleaning it is essential to ensure proper engine operation and prolong the life of the appliance. A very useful trick to achieve this is Fill 1-2 large saucepans with water, add a little vinegar or a few drops of lemon juice and bring the mixture to a boil.. Soon you will see liquid vapors begin to rise into the hood, where the fat will begin to accumulate and soften.
It is necessary to clean the interior to ensure that the engine is working properly.The water should be left to boil for 1 hour and it is best to start suctioning for more effective cleaning. Except, Do not place the pots in the middle, but in the back, as the motors are located at the back. exhaust hood. As the dirt remains loose, beads of grease will begin to fall into both the water and the ceramic cooktop or countertop. Use rags or kitchen paper to help prevent stains, and if you see the water getting very dirty, replace it with a new mixture. You’ll also have to add more water as it evaporates to avoid burning the pan. Finally, wipe with a cloth or kitchen paper to remove any remaining dirty water that condenses in easily accessible areas of the hood.
What happens to the outside of the hood?
The outer part of the hood is the easiest to clean. It is recommended to do this after each preparation. both on the front panel and on the panels protecting the filters. It doesn’t have to be a deep clean, but just scrubbing for a couple of minutes with some soap and water or a degreaser is enough. It is best to use a microfiber cloth.although you can also choose a sponge as long as it’s not too rough to scratch the front.
After cooking, it is recommended to always clean the outer surface with a sponge or cloth.When is deep cleaning also performed? It is recommended to disassemble those parts that move easily. -for example, if the hood has a folding front panel to make it easier to clean. Both the front part and these parts can be cleaned with the mixtures mentioned above if the grease is very stubborn. But it is necessary to take into account that those hoods that have a stainless steel part cannot be cleaned as easily with traditional means, but you will have to use special cleaning products. Of course, to remove fingerprints and small traces of dirt, all you have to do is place a few drops of olive oil on a soft cloth and wipe the steel. until they are completely eliminated.