At Appliance E.M.T., we’ve seen our fair share of range hoods. One thing we’ve noticed is that most homeowners don’t pay enough attention to their grease filters — in fact, many people aren’t even aware of this aspect of appliance maintenance.
We’ve found that people almost never wash their grease filters, and they are usually a greasy mess when we get there to work on their appliances. Not only does this make repairs more difficult, but it can also inhibit your appliances’ functionality and affect fire safety.
If you’re wondering what you need to do to maintain your grease filter, keep reading to learn whether you can clean it in the dishwasher, alternative cleaning methods, and signs your filter needs professional attention.
What is the Grease Filter?
Grease filters are an important component of range hoods. Their job is to capture and trap grease particles from cooking fumes as they pass through the range hood, preventing them from accumulating inside the hood and ductwork. This helps maintain air quality in the kitchen and reduces the risk of fire hazards.
There are a few different types of grease filters. Aluminum and stainless steel mesh are common materials and can be easily washed. Activated charcoal filters trap odors as well as grease, but are not usually washable and must be replaced once their filtering cycle is complete, which is typically every few months.
Baffle filters are commonly found in commercial kitchens thanks to their superior grease filtration and lower fire risk. They work by forcing the air to change direction repeatedly as it passes through the filter. Because grease particles are heavier than air, they can’t change direction as quickly, which means they condense on the filter’s metal blades. From there, the grease is drained into a tray, and the grease-free air is exhausted outside.
How to Clean Your Grease Filter in the Dishwasher
The first step of cleaning your grease filter is checking the owner’s manual to see if it’s dishwasher-safe. Aluminum and stainless steel grease filters, along with baffle filter components, can typically be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Standard charcoal filters cannot be washed and must be replaced every few months. However, special ceramic charcoal filters can be washed and reused up to a certain point. Again, consult with the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Once you’ve determined that it’s okay to put the filter in the dishwasher, follow these steps to ensure a complete clean:
- Remove excess grease manually with a paper towel or rag before placing the filter in the dishwasher.
- Place the filter on the top rack.
- Set the dishwasher to the correct temperatures — some filter manufacturers recommend washing with low heat.
- Use a degreasing dishwasher detergent to cut through stubborn grease.
Once the cycle is complete, let the filter air-dry or dry it with a towel before reassembling your range hood.
Pros and Cons of Cleaning Grease Filters in the Dishwasher
This method is quick, easy, and hands-free, which encourages regular cleaning. As long as your dishwasher is in good condition, it should handle grease and grime well.
However, you may risk damaging the dishwasher if excessive grease clogs the system. Plus,
there’s the potential for discoloration or corrosion, especially with aluminum filters.
If your grease filter isn’t dishwasher safe, you can wash it by hand instead. Soak it in hot, soapy water and scrub it with a non-abrasive brush. You can also use degreasing sprays or vinegar solutions.
How Often Should You Clean Your Grease Filter?
The frequency with which you should clean your grease filter depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations and how often you use your range hood. If you notice decreased range hood performance, unusual noises or odors, or a buildup of grease, it’s probably time to clean the filter.
If your range hood still experiences issues after you’ve cleaned the filter, it’s time to call the professionals.
Cleaning Dishwasher Filters
While you’re at it, you might as well clean your dishwasher filter, too. Most dishwashers have easily removable filters that capture little food particles. To ensure peak performance, you should clean the filter every couple of weeks. Simply let it soak in some hot water mixed with dish soap for a few minutes, scrub it with a sponge or soft-bristled brush, rinse it, and pop it back in.
Expert Appliance Repairs in Ogden, Utah
If you’re in need of appliance repairs, call Appliance E.M.T. in Ogden, Utah, for fast, reliable service. Our technicians can tackle a wide range of problems, getting your kitchen or laundry room back to normal in no time.
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