How To Maintain a Copper Range Hood

Copper range hoods are beautiful and functional additions to any kitchen but require proper maintenance to stay in good condition. Maintaining your copper range hood's appearance and functionality requires regular cleaning, proper care, and prompt attention to any damage.

Even though our high-quality copper range hoods regularly vent out a lot of cooking dirt, stains, smog, and other pollutants, they are easy to clean. With that in mind, this article will give you clear guidelines on cleaning and maintaining your custom copper range hood, so read on.

How To Clean a Copper Range Hood

Copper is a favorite metal for custom range hoods because it comes in incredibly stunning designs, is durable, and is relatively easy to maintain. Most copper hoods have smooth, nonporous surfaces that are non-stick. But it is common to find a poorly maintained copper range hood caked with grease. This can be unsightly if you have your range hood as the focal design point in your kitchen, like with a canopy range hood. Here's how you ensure your range hood retains its shine.

How To Clean the Exterior of Your Copper Range Hood.

Copper range hoods that lack a paint or powder coating are frequently subjected to air and water, resulting in a natural patina coating, which gives them a greenish hue. This is because copper goes through oxidation, which forms the patina coat that helps prevent further corrosion. If you want your copper vent hood to retain its original color and avoid the formation of this patina coat, you should clean it regularly. Please ensure you turn off and unplug your copper range hood before you begin the cleaning, and your stove or cooktop should also be off.

What you'll need:

• Warm water
• Dish soap
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Microfiber cloths
• Soft-bristled brush/ Wet sponge
• Rubber gloves
• Lint-free flannel cloth
• Copper polish

Most copper range hoods come with different finishes for their exterior, but for regular grease and dust maintenance, you can generally clean them with these steps:

Step 1:Remove any loose debris, such as dust or grease, from the hood with a soft-bristled brush.

Step 2: Create a cleaning solution by mixing warm water and a few drops of dish soap in a bucket. Dip a microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and wring out the excess water.

Step 3: Use the damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the copper range hood, including the top, sides, and front. Be sure to clean any crevices or hard-to-reach areas.

Step 4: Rinse the cloth frequently in clean water and continue wiping until the hood is clean.

Step 5:Mix baking soda and warm water to make a paste, and apply it to any areas of the hood with tough stains or buildup. Use a soft-bristled brush or wet sponge to scrub the paste into the hood gently.

Step 6: Rinse the paste off with warm water and dry the hood with a clean soft cloth.

Step 7: Buff the exterior by applying copper polish to the dry copper hood surface with a lint-free flannel cloth.

Cleaning the filters

Materials: Gloves, a screwdriver, a large enough container, hot, soapy water, baking soda, a scrub brush, and soft cloths.

 Steps:

1. Remove the filter from the hood.
2. Fill the container with hot soapy water.
3. Add a tablespoon of baking soda to help loosen the grease, oil, or grimy particles on the filter.
4. Place the filter in the container and allow the filter to soak for a minimum of 10 minutes.
5. Scrub the filter thoroughly with the brush to release any grime still on it.
6. Rinse and let the filter dry.
7. Return the filter to its compartment after cleaning it with a clean cloth.

Cleaning the vents

These are the materials and steps required to clean it.

Materials:screwdriver, gloves, long scrub brush, spray-on copper cleaner, kitchen towel.

Steps:

1. Carefully detach the internal duct from the range hood.
2. Spray the inside of the duct with the cleaner, and let it soak for at least 5 minutes.
3. Scrub the insides with a brush to remove any remaining grime.
4. Rinse with hot soapy water and then with clear water.
5. Allow the duct to dry.
6. Wipe with a clean kitchen towel and reattach the duct.

Cleaning the fans and motor.

Fans and motors typically don't require extensive cleaning as they are not frequently exposed to vented air. Although they can accumulate dust, a simple wipe-down with a dry cloth or a few passes of a portable vacuum cleaner should be enough. Additionally, a qualified technician can regularly inspect and maintain the motor.

Why You Must Constantly Maintain Your Copper Range Hood

Maintaining your copper range hood is essential for several reasons. Here are ten reasons why you must constantly maintain your copper range hood:

1. Prevent tarnishing:Copper is susceptible to tarnishing over time, especially when exposed to moisture and heat. Regular cleaning can prevent tarnishing and keep your range hood looking its best.
2. Maintain appearance: A well-maintained copper range hood is a beautiful centerpiece in any kitchen. Regular cleaning and maintenance can keep it looking great for years to come.
3. Prevent buildup: Grease, dirt, and grime can build up on the surface of the range hood and reduce its shine and beauty. Regular cleaning can prevent buildup and keep the hood looking clean and new.
4. Improve airflow:Over time, grease and debris can build up in the hood's filters and ducts, reducing airflow and decreasing the hood's efficiency. Regular cleaning can improve airflow and ensure that your hood is working correctly.
5. Reduce fire risk: A buildup of grease and debris in the hood's filters and ducts can increase the risk of a kitchen fire. Regular cleaning and maintenance can reduce this and keep your home safe.
6. Increase lifespan: Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your copper range hood, saving you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or replacements.
7. Ensure functionality: Regular cleaning and maintenance can ensure that your range hood is working correctly, preventing any potential issues from arising.
8. Avoid damage: Any damage to the range hood, such as scratches or dents, can impact its functionality and lead to more severe problems if left untreated. Regular maintenance can identify and address any damage before it becomes a significant issue.
9. Improve indoor air quality: A dirty range hood can reduce indoor air quality by circulating airborne particles and pollutants throughout your home. Regular cleaning and maintenance can improve indoor air quality and keep your home healthy.
10. Maintain warranty:Many range hoods come with a warranty that requires regular maintenance to remain valid. Maintaining your copper range hood ensures that your warranty remains valid and protects your investment.

When Should You Clean Your Copper Range Hood?

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your copper range hood are essential to keep it functioning correctly and looking its best. Here are some general guidelines for when you should clean your copper range hood:

1. Weekly cleaning:Wipe down the surface of your copper range hood with a soft cloth at least once a week. This can help prevent dust and grime buildup on the hood's surface.
2. Monthly cleaning:Give your copper range hood a more thorough cleaning once a month. This can include removing the vent cover and filter and washing them with warm soapy water.
3. Quarterly cleaning: Give your copper range hood a deep clean every three months. This can include using a baking soda paste to remove tough stains or buildup on the hood's surface.
4. As needed:Clean your copper range hood based on how frequently you use it. If you cook often and produce a lot of grease and smoke, you may need to clean your range hood more regularly than someone who rarely cooks.

In addition to these guidelines, cleaning your copper range hood immediately is essential if you notice any grease or dirt buildup.

Final Thoughts

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to keeping your copper range hood looking great and functioning efficiently. Tarnishing, grime, and grease buildup, which increases the risk of fire, are all potential issues that can be prevented with proper care. Following a regular cleaning schedule and using the appropriate cleaning products, you can keep your copper range hood in top condition and extend its lifespan.