Noise, dirt, and possible fire risk are just three reasons you should be routinely cleaning your extractor. And, as at the heart of any cleaning operation, there is the overriding question of hygiene.
Invisible grease
Because they are invisible to the naked eye, it’s hard to over-estimate the sheer amount of microscopic grease particles that can settle on to kitchen surfaces.
Not only that but an extractor blocked with dirt and grease will impinge the flow of clean air around your kitchen. Yes, that means excessive heat and smells – more than that, though, it potentially means increased levels of carbon monoxide.
The cleaning process
It is recommended to clean your extractor at least every three months.
The process needn’t be as cumbersome as you might imagine, with everything from a damp cloth (be sure to switch the extractor off at the mains before you start) to an old toothbrush being handy tools for getting rid of every speck of accumulated dirt.
Thankfully, extractors tend to have detachable filters, some of which can be easily cleaned in a dishwasher. Check if your unit has a paper filter, or one fashioned from charcoal, metal, sponge, or carbon. Cleaning requirements are different every time, but there is plenty of information online as to how best go about the job.
Get rid of that headache!
Cooking giving you a headache? A good clean will also make your extractor less noisy and more efficient.
Health and safety
Health and safety officials will take a good look at the extraction system when carrying out an inspection of commercial premises. If grease particles are making it through to ducts, then there is a risk of fire. If an extractor has not been regularly cleaned, that could cause insurance issues too.
Don’t put it off!
It may be one of those jobs that keeps getting delayed, but it really is worth taking time to make the effort. A kitchen should be a creative and enjoyable environment.
Don’t let a greasy extractor suck the life from it.
