Kitchen Ventilation: How to Keep Air Fresh and Grease Out

When you’re cooking, hot steam, smoke and oil particles fill the air fast. Good kitchen ventilation moves that stuff outside, stops it from coating walls, and makes the space safer. If your ventilation is weak, you’ll notice lingering smells, greasy cabinets and a higher chance of fire hazards. Below you’ll find the basics of how kitchen ventilation works, simple upkeep steps, and what to do when things go wrong.

What Makes a Good Kitchen Ventilation System?

The core of any system is the extractor fan or range hood. It pulls air up through a filter, then pushes it out through a duct or recirculates it after cleaning. The most important factors are:

• Airflow rate: Measured in cubic metres per hour (m³/h). A 60‑80 cm hood over a four‑burner stove usually needs 600‑800 m³/h to keep fumes down.
• Filter type: Metal grease filters catch oil, while charcoal filters remove odours when the ducted option isn’t possible.
• Duct size and length: A smooth, correctly sized duct lets air move freely. Too many bends or a narrow pipe reduces performance.
• Fan noise: Look for fans rated under 60 dB for a quieter kitchen.

If any of these points feel off, you’re probably dealing with a ventilation problem.

Maintenance Made Easy – Keep Your Fan Running Longer

Most issues stem from dirty filters or a loose duct. Here’s a quick routine you can follow every few months:

1. Turn off the fan and unplug it.
2. Remove the grease filter. Warm, soapy water usually does the trick. For stubborn grime, let the filter soak for 15 minutes.
3. Rinse, dry, and reinstall. If you use a charcoal filter, replace it yearly.
4. Check the exterior vent (the grille on the outside wall). Clear any leaves, bird nests or dust that could block airflow.
5. Give the fan motor a quick visual check. Tighten any loose screws and make sure the fan blades spin freely.

Putting this in your calendar saves you from costly repairs later. If the fan still sounds weak after cleaning, it might be time to look at the motor or the duct work.

Common problems you’ll run into include a fan that won’t turn on, reduced suction, or rattling noises. A dead motor often means a professional repair, while a loose duct or clogged filter is a DIY fix. When in doubt, call a local technician who knows Northampton appliances – they can diagnose the issue fast and get your kitchen back to normal.

Finally, think about where you place the hood. It should sit 65‑75 cm above the cooking surface for optimal capture. Too high and it misses the steam; too low and it interferes with your pots.

Good ventilation isn’t just about comfort, it protects your appliances, your cabinets and your health. Follow the simple steps above, keep an eye on performance, and you’ll enjoy a fresher, safer kitchen all year round.