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October 07, 2023 5 min read
Moisture and mold are common threats to health and the home, particularly in the kitchen. Kitchens experience high humidity due to activities like cooking and washing dishes. These tasks introduce moisture into the air, creating damp conditions in which mold thrives. When moisture settles on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and cabinets, it provides the perfect environment for mold to spread. Left unchecked, the presence of both moisture and mold not only becomes a nuisance with significant health risks. Fortunately, homeowners can fight mold and moisture by installing a range hood.
Good kitchen ventilation helps to control moisture levels, which limits mold growth. When used correctly, a range hood is a trusted ally in your fight against moisture and mold. Understanding how to use the range hood in this fight is essential for a healthier kitchen. Before we explore how a range hood can prevent moisture and mold in your home, let's first look at what happens when moisture is left unchecked.
Cooking in the home can generate moisture in the air, which increases humidity levels. Boiling and steaming food release steam that increases the moisture level in your kitchen. Baking can also add moisture to the air, as opening the oven door releases moisture. This moisture can spread from the cooking area to other parts of the kitchen.
When the air is too humid, it can cause water droplets to form on cooler surfaces like windows and walls. These droplets can then seep into the surfaces, creating damp conditions. Damp surfaces are an ideal condition for the growth of mold and mildew. Fungi that thrive in damp environments can spread causing allergic reactions. These fungi often appear as dark spots on walls, ceilings, or in grout lines, which are unsightly. Mold can also cause unpleasant odors not suitable for a kitchen.
Read more about preventing condensation in a range hood vent
Water is no friend of dry surfaces. Excessive moisture can damage building materials, including wood framing and drywall. Wood absorbs moisture from the air, causing it to swell, warp, or even rot. Warping can cause cabinet doors to stick or misalign, reducing their functionality. This can weaken your kitchen structure and lead to costly repairs.
High humidity levels can also make indoor air feel stuffy, which can be unpleasant. Humidity can also worsen indoor air pollution by concentrating particles and other pollutants. This trapped moisture often leads to a lingering musty smell. These odors are a clear sign of poor air quality which can have serious health implications.
Another downside associated with increased moisture levels is the attraction of pests. Damp environments attract pests like cockroaches, silverfish, and termites. These pests thrive in humid conditions and can infest your kitchen, bringing with them health risks.
Range hoods are designed to remove excess moisture and odors generated during cooking. They can be either vented (expelling air outside) or non-vented (recirculating air with filters). Vented hoods are generally more effective at preventing mold growth because they expel humid air outside. This helps reduce indoor humidity levels that help mold development. Here are the best ways to use a range hood to fight mold and moisture in your kitchen.
1. ALWAYS USE THE RANGE HOOD WHEN COOKING
Use the range hood whenever you cook, especially when boiling water or frying foods. This helps to capture steam and other moisture before it can condense on surfaces. To perfect this, make it a habit to turn on the range hood every time you cook, regardless of how small the meal might seem. Even low-heat cooking produces steam that can settle on walls and ceilings if left unchecked.
2. TURN THE HOOD ON BEFORE YOU START COOKING
To stay ahead of moisture buildup, switch on your range hood a few minutes before you start cooking. This allows the fan to establish proper airflow and begin venting moisture immediately. It’s also a good idea to let the hood run for about 5–10 minutes after cooking to clear out any remaining humidity or odors.
3. USE THE HOOD WHILE WASHING DISHES
Dishwashing, especially with hot water, releases steam into the air. This can be problematic if your kitchen is enclosed or has limited airflow. Running the range hood while you wash dishes helps get rid of moisture and stops it from collecting on walls or cabinets.
4. ENSURE PROPER VENTING TO THE OUTDOORS
For maximum efficiency, your range hood should be vented to the outside. Recirculating range hoods filter air and reduce odors but don't expel moisture from the kitchen. If your hood isn’t vented outdoors, consider upgrading it to ensure better moisture control.
5. VENTILATE THE KITCHEN EVEN WHEN NOT COOKING
In humid kitchens, running the range hood every now and then, even when you're not cooking, can help keep the air dry. On humid days, running the fan for a few minutes helps to keep moisture levels under control and prevents condensation from building up.
6. PAIR THE RANGE HOOD WITH ADDITIONAL VENTILATION
While a range hood is a powerful tool, it works best as part of a broader ventilation strategy. Opening windows, running ceiling fans, or using a dehumidifier can help you control moisture even better in your kitchen. These steps are useful during extreme weather or when cooking for extended periods.
7. KEEP THE RANGE HOOD FILTERS CLEAN
Dirty filters can restrict airflow and reduce the range hood’s ability to remove moisture. Clean or replace the filters regularly depending on how often you cook. Some filters are dishwasher-safe, making maintenance easy.
8. OPTIMIZE RANGE HOOD HEIGHT AND POSITION
A range hood’s efficiency depends on its height and alignment over the cooktop. If the hood is too high, it may not capture all the steam and moisture, and installing it too low can limit airflow. Make sure your range hood is installed at the recommended height above the stove for the best extraction.
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To reduce moisture in your home beyond installing a custom range hood, consider this checklist:
Wipe down countertops and sinks to remove moisture and water droplets. Clean spills or leaks to prevent moisture from penetrating walls or floors.
Check your kitchen for leaks and fix them right away to prevent mold from growing. By keeping a close eye, you can catch potential problems early and take care of them right away.
Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels optimal. This is important for kitchen areas that don't have range hood ventilation. It will help remove excess water vapor from the areas missed by the range hood.
Store food items in dry areas away from moisture build-up spots, like under the sink or near the refrigerator. Store items that are more prone to moisture (like fruits and vegetables) separately from dry goods. Consider using breathable produce bags or bins that allow air circulation. Regularly check stored food items for any signs of spoilage or mold. Discard any affected items immediately.
Proper insulation is key to preventing excess moisture and mold. Ensure walls, ceilings, and floors are well insulated to prevent condensation. Insulation materials can also help absorb excess moisture from the air.
Use mold-resistant materials for appliances, paint, drywall, and flooring. These specialized products are designed to prevent mold development. They are treated with chemicals that prevent mold spores from growing and spreading. Mold-resistant drywall (green or blue board) and vinyl flooring are examples.
Use lids on pots and pans to reduce moisture released when cooking. This simple action helps maintain a drier environment. Covering pots can also help retain heat, allowing food to cook faster and more evenly.
A quality range hoods will help you maintain a healthy home by preventing moisture and mold growth. Excessive moisture and mold can cause all sorts of damage to a house. Create a plan for reducing moisture, and be sure to consider the many benefits of a proper range hood.