Symptoms
- Reduced suction even at high fan speed
- Visible grease buildup or discoloration on the filter
- Grease dripping or coating nearby surfaces
- Cooking smoke lingers more than it used to
Likely causes
- CommonInfrequent cleaningGrease filters need regular cleaning, generally monthly with typical cooking use, and buildup restricts airflow quickly.
- CommonHeavy frying or high-grease cookingFrequent frying accelerates how fast the filter clogs compared to lighter cooking.
- PossibleWrong or missing filter installedAn incorrect replacement filter may not fit or perform properly.
What to do
- Remove the metal grease filter, usually by sliding or unclipping it from the underside of the hood.
- Soak it in hot water with degreasing dish soap for 10–15 minutes to loosen baked-on grease.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely before reinstalling.
- Run it through the dishwasher instead if the manual confirms it's dishwasher-safe, which many metal filters are.
- Clean the filter on a regular schedule going forward, roughly monthly for typical use, more often for heavy frying.
- Replace the filter if it's warped, damaged, or won't come clean after a thorough soak.
Tools and parts
- Degreasing dish soap
- Soft brush
- Hot water
Range hood grease filterSearch: “range hood metal grease filter replacement”
When to call a pro
A technician isn't needed for filter cleaning; this is routine maintenance you can do yourself.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.