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To keep your range hood working perfectly and looking great, you need to clean it regularly. Especially important is the aluminum meshing, because it catches any grease and keeps it from going into the blower. You need to remove this and clean it with a degreaser, followed by a good soaking with water and dish soap. If you have a dishwasher, you could give it a run through that too. If you have a ventless range hood, you will either have to wash or replace the filter. If it is a charcoal type, you will need to replace it with a new one about every 12 months. Some new models have a light that comes on when it’s time to put in a new filter. 

For removable filters, you should clean them with a degreaser, wash and if possible, run through the dishwasher. If you aren’t sure what type of filter you have, check your owner’s manual.  Actual range hood owner’s advice runs the gamut from using engine degreaser and baking to water softener. For the latter, the owner advises that you fill a pail with water and softener. Throw in the filter and let it sit for a bit. Then remove any grease with a brush. Another owner suggests using a dryer sheet and letting it sit over night. For the baking method, line a baking pan with several layers of newspaper and place the filter on it. Put it in the oven at about 250 degrees, so it just becomes warm. Wait until the grease melts off the filter and then wash it. Using cream of tartar and vinegar was also suggested. For this method, you make a paste and put it on the filter. Leave it for about an hour and then clean it. It is advised that you may have to do this a second time to remove all the grease and grime. 

To clean the top, front and sides of your range hood, use a degreaser or gentle cleaner. Before you attempt to clean the inside parts to the range hood, ensure that it is not on first. Use a degreaser or other good cleanser to remove grease and grime. If there is just too much build-up, try using water and ammonia. If you had the foresight to by a range hood that is self-cleaning, then you are the lucky one. You can program this type of hood to clean itself.  You will also need to clean the fan blades as they catch grease and grime too. If they are not cleaned, the airflow can be affected causing the motor to overheat. Wash the blades with warm, sudsy water. Do the same with the blower wheel. When it comes to cleaning the vent, you need to hire a professional. If you live in the

Los Angeles

County area and need assistance with this or any other part of your range hood, you need to go to www.chiefappliance.com. West Coat Chief Appliance offers maintenance, parts and repairs by qualified service technicians.