The exhaust fan in your kitchen is a lifesaver when it comes to keeping the space fresh, well-ventilated and odour free. However, while the exhaust fan is at it, it is bound to get dirty, which might affect its functionality. Keeping your exhaust fan clean ensures a functional and hygienic kitchen environment and a smooth experience for those working there. So to make sure that this essential appliance diligently serves its purpose, here is a brief guide to deep cleaning your kitchen’s exhaust fan for enhanced functionality and longevity.
See also: Best Exhaust Fan for Kitchen: Top Brands and Things to Consider
Basic guide to deep clean exhaust fans
Cleaning your exhaust fan properly requires you to follow certain steps to ensure best results. Before starting, make sure to keep the required materials handy and ready for use. You would need a screwdriver, a cleaning cloth, a cleaning solution, a vacuum cleaner with a nozzle, a small brush and a raised object such as a step ladder to help you reach the exhaust. Once you gather all these things, follow these steps to clean the fan:
Step 1: Safety precautions
The very first step of cleaning your exhaust fan is to ensure proper safety. Turn off the power of the fan. If using a step ladder or stool to reach the fan, make sure it is placed on a flat surface and positioned securely to avoid getting disbalanced.
Step 2: Clean the grille
Remove the screws that hold the fan grille in place using a screwdriver. Carefully remove the grille and set the screws aside carefully. Wipe it with a damp cloth or soak it in a mild detergent solution for better results. Make sure to dry the grille properly after cleaning.
Step 3: Vacuum the interior
Remove the dust and debris accumulated on the interior of the fan using a dry cloth. For better results, use a vacuum cleaner for effective cleaning of the areas that can not be cleaned manually. Pay attention to the blades and motor areas as they are more susceptible to accumulation of dirt.
Step 4: Brush the blades
The fan blades might collect stubborn dirt and grime with regular usage. To clean this without damaging the motor, use a small brush or a used toothbrush to gently scrub the dirt away with a mild soap solution. Take special care to not damage the motor with excessive scrubbing.
Step 5: Clean the housing
The corners and edges of the housing are areas prone to accumulation of dust. Get rid of it by gently wiping the interior of the fan housing with a damp cloth. Use a mild detergent for greater effectiveness.
Step 6: Check the motor
Periodic cleaning of the exhaust fan is also a good opportunity to check for any functional damages and address them as required. While cleaning, inspect the motor for signs of wear or damage. If found, consult the manual for fixes or seek professional help on how to address it.
Step 7: Reassemble
Ensure that all the parts have been properly cleaned. Once thoroughly dried, reattach the grille and secure it with the screws. Turn the power back on to check if the fan is functioning correctly after being cleaned.
Exhaust fan cleaning: Troubleshooting problems
Aside from the regular cleaning, there might be some specific problems you face with your exhaust fan. Here is a list of some of those common problems and how you can fix them:
Excessive dirt buildup
If you notice a large amount of dust and grime on the exhaust fan, it is advisable to first remove the loose particles using a vacuum cleaner or a dry cloth before wiping the surface. In case of stubborn grime, use a small amount of mild detergent solution and wipe with a cloth to break it down.
Stains on grille and blades
A mild cleaning solution can help remove stubborn stains from the grille and blades. Using a mild solution of vinegar or dish soap mixed with water usually helps. Let the solution sit and work on the stains before wiping it off.
Sticky residue
Excessive buildup of grease can lead to a sticky residue being left behind on the surface of the exhaust fan. Wipe it away using a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaning agents that might damage the surface.
Mould or mildew growth
Humid environments such as kitchens are ideal for mould to thrive. Therefore, mould and mildew growth on exhaust fans is a common problem. Use a solution of water and vinegar to disinfect the surface and get rid of the growth. After cleaning, allow the surface to dry thoroughly to prevent the accumulation of moisture that might lead to regrowth in future.
Hard-to-reach areas
Exhaust fans have components in small spaces that cannot always be reached manually. To clean such tight and inaccessible spaces, use a small brush or an old toothbrush. It is advisable to disassemble the fan altogether for a more thorough and cautious cleaning of small and fragile parts.
Grille or blade warping
The grille or blades of the exhaust fan are prone to succumb to excessive force, resulting in warping. Take extra care while cleaning these parts and ensure gentleness to avoid this problem. If warping occurs, gently try to reshape the components or consider replacing if the damage is severe.
Painted surfaces
If the surface around your exhaust fan is painted, take care to not scratch or damage the paint while cleaning. Go for a soft cloth or sponge to avoid this. If the paint gets damaged, touch it up with a matching shade to avoid aesthetic inconsistencies.
Rust on metal components
Metal components of the exhaust fan are susceptible to corrosion with regular use. Remove the loose rust particles by scrubbing gently with a soft brush. To prevent rusting in future, consider applying a rust inhibitor or a light coating of lubricant
Foul odours
If unpleasant odours persist, clean the fan components to get rid of accumulated dirt. Place odour-absorbing materials such as baking soda near the fan to reduce its impact.
FAQs
How often should I clean my exhaust fan?
It is advisable to clean your exhaust fan once every three to six months depending on the usage and external factors.
Are regular household cleaners suitable for exhaust fans?
You can use a household cleaner for exhaust fans as long as it is non-abrasive. Consider mixing it with water and using it as a solution for more convenient usage.
Can I remove the fan grille for cleaning?
Most exhaust fans have removable grilles held in place using screws that can be removed using a screwdriver. You can clean it and then fix it again.
How do I clean hard-to-reach areas of the exhaust fan?
To reach small and tight spaces, consider using a small brush or used toothbrush for gentle cleaning. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on how to disassemble the exhaust for better accessibility.
Can I use compressed air to clean the exhaust?
Compressed air is an effective way of removing dust without much effort or potential damage to the appliance.
Is it safe to clean the exhaust fan without switching off the power?
It is highly unsafe to clean the exhaust with the power running as it might cause accidents. Before turning on the power once cleaned, make sure that the fan is completely dry.
What should I do about the foul odours coming from the exhaust fan?
Clean the accumulated dirt and grease thoroughly and place odour-absorb materials like baking soda around the exhaust to neutralise the odour.
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