Washing up liquid is an effective starting point for cleaning your kitchen extractor fan, thanks to its grease-fighting properties. Here's a breakdown of how to effectively clean your extractor fan:
Steps to Clean Your Extractor Fan
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Gather your supplies: You'll need washing up liquid, warm water, a non-abrasive sponge or cloth, a large container or sink, bicarbonate of soda (optional), and paper towels or a clean cloth for drying.
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Turn off the power: Ensure the extractor fan is switched off at the mains to prevent any accidents.
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Remove the grease filter: Most extractor fans have a removable filter, often made of metal mesh. Consult your fan's manual for specific instructions, but typically, you can slide, unclip, or unscrew the filter.
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Soak the filter: Fill your container or sink with warm water and add a generous amount of washing up liquid. If the filter is heavily soiled, add a few tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda for extra cleaning power. Submerge the grease filter and let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for stubborn grease.
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Scrub the filter: After soaking, use your sponge or cloth to scrub away any remaining grease and grime. Rinse thoroughly with clean, warm water.
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Clean the fan housing: While the filter is soaking, wipe down the exterior and interior of the extractor fan housing with a damp cloth and washing up liquid. Pay attention to any areas with visible grease buildup. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth.
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Dry thoroughly: Before reassembling, ensure both the filter and the fan housing are completely dry. Use paper towels or a clean cloth to dry all components.
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Reassemble: Once everything is dry, reattach the grease filter according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Restore power: Turn the power back on at the mains.
Tips for Stubborn Grease
- Longer Soaking Time: If the grease is particularly stubborn, consider soaking the filter overnight.
- Degreaser: For very heavy grease buildup, you might consider using a commercial degreaser specifically designed for kitchen appliances. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products.
- Boiling Water: Exercise caution, but soaking the filter in boiling water (with washing up liquid) can also help loosen tough grease. Be extremely careful handling boiling water.
- Baking Soda Paste: For localized stubborn spots, create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it directly to the grease. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Regular Maintenance
To prevent excessive grease buildup, clean your extractor fan's grease filter regularly. A good rule of thumb is to clean it every 1-3 months, depending on how often you cook.
