How to Clean a Vent-A-Hood

Vent-A-Hoods are used to exhaust fumes while cooking on a stove top. Over time, grease and debris can build up on the surface and in the metal filters. This buildup, especially in the metal filters, can cause the fan to draw air poorly. It can also cause the grease to migrate into the fan chamber and damage the exhaust fan. In order to keep the exhaust system running efficiently, a periodic cleaning is required.

Things You'll Need

• Formula 409 or other degreaser type cleaner Brass or copper polish (if applicable) Clean rags Screwdriver T- handled hex wrench one-eighth inch WD-40 Warm soapy water Toothbrush

Instructions

The Hood Surface and Filter

1. Remove the metal filter from the exhaust unit. Place the filter in the kitchen sink and spray both sides with the Formula 409 or other degreaser. Let the filter set while cleaning the rest of the hood.

2. Spray the hood completely with the 409. Allow the cleaner to set for a couple of minutes. The grease will begin to dissolve and breakup any thick grime. Respray the surface on very heavy buildups of grease.

3. Wipe the hood down with a clean rag. Turn the rag over after every couple of wipes. This will help in removing the grime and not spreading it to other areas. Use this method on both the outside and inside of the hood. Respray the surface one more time and rewipe with a clean rag.

4. Rinse the metal filter with hot water while it is in the sink. Turn the filter in both directions under the stream of water. This will flush the filter. Spray the metal mesh again and allow it to set for five minutes. Rerinse the filter completely with hot water and allow the mesh to thoroughly dry.

5. Install the filter in the Vent-A-Hood. Wipe the stove top of any cleaner drippings or grease. If the blower unit is to be cleaned do not replace the filter just yet. Move on to the next section.

The Blower Unit

1. Remove all electrical power from the Vent-A-Hood exhaust unit.

2. Reach up inside the Vent-A-Hood unit and use the screwdriver to remove two screws that hold a metal shield in place. Once the metal plate is removed it will expose the squirrel cage exhaust fan.

3. Unsnap the two latches that hold the fan box in place to the rear of the exhaust hood housing. Remove the box and place it in the sink along with the metal shield.

4. Remove the squirrel cage fan by placing the tip of the hex head wrench into the Allen set screw. The long handled wrench will have to go through the fan blades. The screw will be located near the end of the fan and over a flat portion on the motor shaft. Turn the wrench in a counterclockwise direction. Gently pull the fan from the shaft. If the fan will not move, squirt a little WD-40 onto the shaft. The oil will help to break up any grease that is causing the fan to stick.

5. Pull the blower fan from the shaft and place in the sink. Remove the small Allen set screw from the fan housing and keep in a safe place. You could loose the screw during cleaning.

6. Fill the sink with warm, soapy water. Allow all the metal parts to soak for a few minutes. Use the toothbrush and carefully clean each individual blade on the fan. The metal box and plate can be placed in a dishwasher for cleaning. Do not place the fan in a dishwasher as it can become damaged.

7. Replace the fan on the motor shaft. Be sure to align the Allen set screw hole over the flat area of the motor shaft. Turn the fan by hand to assure free movement. If the fan is placed too far back it can rub against the motor's mounting screws. If placed too far forward it will interfere with the metal cover. Adjust the fan for freewheel.

8. Install the remaining parts in the reverse order as they have been removed, and the filter.

Tips & Warnings

• If the blower unit has two fans, match up the correct color rings to the proper motor shaft. In other words, place the black colored ringed fan on the black ringed motor shaft and the white to white. Tighten each fan to the motor shaft and adjust as in Step 7 above. For real copper and brass hoods, use only approved cleaners and polishes for this type of metal.

• Do not use an abrasive type cleaner such as Comet or Soft Scrub as they can cause scratches in fine finishes. Use caution when using heavy solvents for cleaning as the fumes may be hazardous.

References

• Stanford University
• Vent a Hood Blower
• Vent a Hood Cleaning