Charcoal filters vs. Mesh filters
Charcoal rangehood filters are used for ductless rangehoods. These are perfect appliances for apartments or other small accommodation, where ducting is not an option. The charcoal/ carbon filters work by collecting airborne grease, smoke and smells while cooking, and recirculating the fresh air back into the kitchen.
Ducted rangehoods use mesh filters, and have a filtration system that collects the grease, smoke and other particles through the duct to the outdoors. Removing the dirty air right out from the kitchen.
That is why replacing your charcoal rangehood filters every few months is so vital and important for the performance of your rangehood, in the same instance clean your mesh filters regularly.
Make cleaning and replacing your rangehood filters a habit, and your rangehood will love you for it.
How to clean & change your rangehood filters (stainless steel or mesh)
Cleaning or changing your rangehood filters is essential to make sure your rangehood functions as expected.
Best way to clean your rangehood filter:
- First remove the filter/s out from the hood, by using the tab to pull.
- You can then hand wash your filters or place them in your dishwasher on a hot cycle for added convenience. To hand wash - submerge and soak your filters in a sink with warm soapy dishwashing liquid or baking soda, for about 10 minutes. Then scrub the filters using a brush or scourer until clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning your filters as they can tarnish the mesh.
- Leave your filters out to dry (before refitting your filters, make sure they are completely dry).
- Place the filters back into the hood sockets.
To replace your rangehood filters:
- Simply remove and discard the old filters. To remove the filter/s out from the hood, use the tab and pull.
- Fit your new filters into the sockets. You can also purchase our universal UNILUX range of filters here. Be sure to use the filter guide at the top of this page to see what filter fits your rangehood.
How to know when to clean or replace your filters?
If your rangehood is not performing optimally, it could mean your filters are clogged or damaged. Make sure to clean your filters every few months, if not weeks depending on your rangehood usage. Selected rangehoods also have a warning light to prompt you to maintain your filters.
Your filters need cleaning or replacing if:
- Grease or grime starts to build up on surrounding cabinetry or walls.
- Cooking odours stay in the kitchen and are not being soaked up by the filters.
- Smoke stays in the kitchen even after you’ve had your rangehood running.
- You can visually see grease or cooking residue on your filters.
- Your rangehood suction or filtration seems compromised due to warping or bends in your filters, dents or holes in the mesh or stainless steel.
- If you have never cleaned your filters, it’s time to start now!