Your Cart is Empty
Explore our newest colors - free samples available
Explore our newest colors - free samples available
Explore our newest colors - free samples available
Explore our newest colors - free samples available
June 08, 2023 7 min read
Custom range hoods are often stylish kitchen appliances that are crucial for maintaining the air quality in the kitchen. Although they are often the first defense against dangerous particles in the kitchen air, it is easy to overlook cleaning range hoods.
Custom range hoods are harder to clean than standard stainless steel ones. The latter can be wiped, dusted, or put in the dishwasher. Most custom range hoods' internal and exterior parts need different cleaning methods.
So, how do you care for your custom range hood? This article covers the nitty-gritty of cleaning one, the tools required, and several maintenance tips.
Custom range hoods are made with various materials and finishes, like those at Moderncopper. You have options from wood with wax and polished finishes to metals with painted surfaces. This affects how the exterior of each custom hood material is cleaned. We will divide the exterior cleaning section into how to clean waxed, sprayed/painted, and polished finishes.
Tools:
Gloves, dust brush (with soft bristles), scrubbing brush or sponge, multiple kitchen towels, microfiber cloth, paper towels, flashlight, tongs.
Cleaning materials:
Baking soda, hot boiling water, vinegar solution (mixed with olive oil), detergent/soaps, wax/lacquer, degreaser, cleaning solution/soapy water, acetone.
Wax is a nice finish, especially on wood, as it protects from elements and scratches. To clean a waxed or oiled surface:
1. Dust the external surface with your dust cloth.
2. Dampen the cloth with soapy water and clean marks or stains.
3. Allow the surface to dry.
4. Apply a fresh coat of spray-on wax on any scratched or frayed area
5. Buff with a dry, lint-free cloth and allow the wax to dry.
The most common exterior finish of custom range hoods is sprayed or painted because they require minor maintenance. To clean a sprayed or painted exterior:
1. Dust the fume hood with your dust brush to remove all debris and contaminants.
2. Use the scrubbing brush or sponge to wash the surface.
3. Test the cleaning solution on a small, hidden area to ensure it doesn't damage the finish.
4. Apply a cleaning solution to the surface.
5. Clean the surface with a kitchen towel, and ensure the solution does not dry on the fume hood.
6. Always clean from the bottom of the hood upwards.
7. Rinse the surface with soapy water and clean again.
Avoid using cleaning solutions that contain ammonia because they can weaken water-based paints.
When cleaning a polished surface, the goal is to let it regain its natural luster and shine. You will need a simple vinegar solution for this and can check how to make one here. To regain the shiny look on the exterior of your custom range hood, you will have to follow these steps:
1. Wipe down the surface of the range hood to remove any dust or particles.
2. Before using the vinegar solution, test it on a hidden spot. This will ensure it doesn't change the color or damage the surface.
3. Apply the vinegar solution to a dust cloth and start rubbing the hood's exterior.
4. Ensure you spread the vinegar solution evenly over the polished exterior surface.
5. Wipe down any excess solution.
6. Allow it to settle and dry.
7. Buff with a dry kitchen cloth.
The interior of a custom range hood has all the electrical and mechanical components. These parts are hidden from view and often require loosening some screws to access them. Always turn off and unplug the range hood before cleaning its interior.
For the best range hood performance, clean and maintain these parts often, as shown below:
Materials:
Dish soap or degreaser, warm water, scrub brush or sponge, paper towel, soft cotton cloth, lint-free rag, baking soda or vinegar, duct cleaning brush or vacuum with long hose attachment, gloves, protective eyewear, dust mask, screwdriver.
How you take care of your range hood filter will depend greatly on what kind of filter it is. Follow the procedure below for a mesh or stainless steel baffle filter.
Step-by-step process:
1. Turn off the range hood and disconnect the power source.
2. Remove the filters from the hood. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific filter removal steps.
3. Soak the filters in warm water mixed with dish soap or degreaser for 10-15 minutes. Add a tablespoon of baking soda or vinegar to the warm water for more stubborn grease buildup.
4. Using a scrub brush or sponge, gently scrub the filters to remove any remaining grease or dirt.
5. Rinse the filters with warm water to remove any soap or cleaning solution.
6. Let the filters dry completely before reinstalling them into the hood. You can use a towel or rag to dry them off.
The range hood insert contains the blowers, lighting, and motors. Avoid any direct spray of any liquid cleaning solution. Water or cleaning solutions can compromise the integrity of electrical connections. Certain cleaning solutions may contain chemicals that can corrode metal parts over time.
Step-by-step process:
1. Turn off the range hood and disconnect the power source.
2. Remove the filters and any removable parts from the range hood insert. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific removal steps.
3. Using a scrub brush or sponge, gently scrub the range hood insert to remove grease or dirt. If the buildup is stubborn, mix dish soap or degreaser with warm water and use the solution to clean the insert. Add a tablespoon of baking soda or vinegar to the solution for more stubborn buildup.
4. Wipe down the insert with a clean towel or rag to remove any soap or cleaning solution.
5. Clean any lighting fixtures with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using liquid directly because it can cause short circuits or electrical failure.
6. Let the range hood insert dry before reassembling any removable parts and filters.
Cleaning the ductwork is an essential part of maintaining a custom range hood. The ductwork can accumulate grease, dust, and debris that can affect performance.
Necessary Tools:
Protective gear (gloves, goggles, mask), screwdriver, microfiber cloths, HVAC cleaning brush or stiff-bristled brush, vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment, paper towels or rags.
Step-by-step process:
1. Wear gloves, protective eyewear, and a dust mask to protect yourself from dust and debris.
2. Turn off the range hood and disconnect the power source.
3. Locate the ductwork that connects the range hood to the exterior vent. The ductwork may be visible in the attic, basement, or crawlspace.
4. Use a screwdriver to disconnect the ductwork from the range hood and the exterior vent. Be sure to support the ductwork to prevent it from falling or disconnecting completely.
5. Take off supply and return air registers using a screwdriver. Cover them with rags to catch any falling debris during cleaning.
6. Use a brush to gently scrub the inside of the ducts and dislodge any dust buildup.
7. Attach a vacuum hose to reach deep into the ducts and remove loosened dust and debris.
8. Apply ductwork cleaning solution as needed to remove stubborn buildup.
9. Wipe down the removed registers with a damp cloth and reattach them once dry.
10. Turn on the range hood and test the airflow to ensure it functions correctly. Check for any visible signs of damage or leaks that may require professional attention
1. Regular maintenance of a custom range hood helps to extend its lifespan. It prevents the accumulation of grease, dirt, and dust that can damage the surface of the range hood. Consistent care and maintenance can extend the life of your range hood.
2. Regularly cleaning the exterior will prevent grease and dust buildup. If not cleaned, these particles can find their way into the fillers and clog them up. A clean hood prevents debris buildup that can obstruct airflow.
3. When a range hood is well maintained, it doesn’t have to work as hard to ventilate the kitchen. This efficiency translates into lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills. Dirty filters and clogged vents force the motor to work overtime, increasing energy costs.
4. A custom range hood that is not adequately maintained can be prone to damage and malfunction. This can result in costly repairs or even the need to get a replacement hood. Proper care and regular maintenance can prevent rust and other structural damage.
5. A clean range hood enhances the overall look of your kitchen. Grease and grime can tarnish its appearance, making it less visually appealing. Regular cleaning keeps it looking new and well-maintained.
1. Clean the exterior hood regularly because it tends to collect a lot of grease and dirt. Regular cleaning with warm soapy water can remove stains on the range hood surface.
2. Regularly clean the range hood insert and internal parts because they can easily accumulate grease and dust. Failure to do this can cause motor failure and reduce performance. Regular cleaning of the blower wheel and fan blade can keep the range hood in good condition.
3. Clean the ductwork because this is where grease, dust, and other debris often collect. If left unattended, this can reduce the range hood’s performance and can pose a fire hazard. Regular cleaning with a duct cleaning brush or a vacuum with a long hose attachment can prevent this buildup.
4. Replace the filters because they collect grease and other particles and clog up frequently. This can affect the range hood’s performance and is often not a fire hazard. Replace the filters every six months to 1 year based on how you use your range hood.
5. Regularly inspect the range hood and ductwork for any signs of damage or leaks. Replace or repair any damaged parts immediately. This prevents further damage and saves you larger repair costs down the line.
6. Hire a pro for major maintenance and repairs or complex tasks. A professional can ensure that the range hood is in good working condition. They can identify any potential issues that must be addressed that you might have missed.
Providing adequate maintenance and care for your custom range hood is very important. A regular maintenance schedule is advisable to streamline the process for you. This will ensure your range hood works optimally and reduce the cost you spend on repairs in the long run. Ensure you always check the owner’s manual for specific cleaning and maintenance recommendations. A poorly maintained range hood is a fire and health hazard.