Many people know that stovetops and ovens should be cleaned regularly, but they do not realise that kitchen extractor fans can also be a major hotspot for grease.
The extractor fan above the stove has been designed to suck up smoke and steam from kitchens, but this can also lead to grease particles and grime clogging up the fans.
It is incredibly important to clean the extractor fan every few months as grease build-up can be a major fire hazard, especially since the fan is in a high-heat area.
However, Shirley Langridge, a cleaning expert from Maggies Oven Services, has shared that cleaning an extractor fan is “rather easy” as long as you use washing-up liquid.
Shirley said: “Load a big basin or washbasin with warm, soapy water. If the cover or filter is very greasy, toss in a bit of degreaser. Cover and filter the water. Let them soak for approximately 10 to 15 minutes to release the dirt.”
It may seem simple, but grease can be incredibly difficult to remove without scrubbing it for ages. However, you cannot use this method to clean a kitchen fan as it can risk damaging the filter.
Washing up liquid contains surfactants that can loosen grease and prevent it from sticking to a surface, making it easier to rinse off.
Using washing-up liquid to clean your extractor fan is a quick and safe way to remove grease buildup without having to buy a harsh chemical product.
How to properly clean an extractor fan
To begin, switch off the extractor fan at the mains and check that the power is off before you start cleaning.
Then, remove the extractor fan’s cover and filters. Most covers should unclip easily, but some may need to be unscrewed using a screwdriver if the model is older.
Cover the filter in a big basin of warm water filled with washing-up liquid. Leave it to soak for 10 to 15 minutes to give the soapy solution time to break down the grease.
Once the time is up, use a sponge or cloth to gently wipe away the grease, which should easily disappear. For more stubborn stains, you may need to use an old toothbrush to brush off the dirt.
While the cover and filters are soaking, check the fan blades and carefully wipe them with a slightly damp cloth that has been dipped in soapy water. Be gentle, as they can be fragile, and make sure the fans are completely dry before switching them on again.
Also, dust around the fan innards and give the surrounding wall or tiles a quick clean as well. Grease can also build up on these surfaces.
Place the filter and cover on a tea towel and pat them dry. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back into the fan.
Reassemble the fan and ensure everything is in place before turning on the fan again. The extractor fan should now be completely clean.
In the future, try to clean your extractor fan monthly or every two months to avoid grease build-up.
Shirley said: “Depending on how often you cook, clean the cover and filter every one to two months for kitchen extractor fans. If you fry food often, you could have to clean it more often.”