A well-functioning kitchen exhaust system isn’t just about keeping unwanted smells at bay—it plays a critical role in maintaining air quality, reducing fire hazards, and preventing grease build-up in your space. For Singapore residents, where delicious home-cooked meals featuring an array of spices are a staple, regular upkeep of kitchen exhaust systems is even more vital.
This guide will walk you through practical tips and tricks for maintaining your kitchen exhaust, ensuring it performs at its best and prolonging its lifespan. Whether you live in a HDB flat, a condominium, or a landed property, these steps will help you keep your kitchen exhaust in tip-top shape.
Why Regular Maintenance Is Necessary
A clean kitchen exhaust isn’t just about appearances; it affects your home in several ways:
- Ensures Proper Ventilation: The kitchen exhaust Singapore helps expel smoke, grease, and odors during cooking. Poor ventilation can make your kitchen uncomfortable and harm air quality.
- Reduces Fire Risk: Grease build-up in the exhaust system is highly flammable. Regular cleaning minimizes the risk of grease fires.
- Boosts Energy Efficiency: A clean exhaust system works more efficiently, using less energy and saving you money in the long run.
- Extends System Lifespan: Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your kitchen exhaust, saving you from costly repairs or replacements.
Now that we’ve established why maintenance is so important, let’s discuss how to do it.
How to Maintain Your Kitchen Exhaust System
Here are the essential steps to keep your kitchen exhaust system in excellent condition.
1. Understand Your Kitchen Exhaust System
Before starting any maintenance work, it’s important to know the parts of your kitchen exhaust system. Typically, it includes the exhaust hood, grease filters, and ductwork.
- Exhaust Hood: The part you see above your stove that captures smoke, grease, and moisture.
- Grease Filters: These trap grease particles, preventing them from entering the ductwork.
- Ductwork: Connects the exhaust hood to the outside of your home, expelling air.
Different designs may suit various cooking styles. For instance, Singaporean households, known for preparing flavorful dishes like sambal and stir-fries, often generate heavy grease and steam, necessitating robust cleaning efforts.
2. Clean the Grease Filters Regularly
The grease filters are the most crucial component to clean frequently. They trap grease effectively, but over time, they can clog and reduce efficiency.
How to Clean Grease Filters:
- Remove the filters from the exhaust hood. Most models feature click latches or sliding mechanisms.
- Fill your sink with hot water and add a degreasing dish soap or solution.
- Submerge the filters and soak for 15–20 minutes.
- Use a soft brush to scrub away stubborn grease. Avoid abrasive materials that can damage the filters.
- Rinse thoroughly and air-dry before reattaching.
Frequency: Clean grease filters every 1–3 months, depending on how often and what you cook.
3. Wipe the Kitchen Exhaust Hood
The exterior surface of the exhaust hood can also accumulate grease, especially near the air vents.
Steps to Clean the Exhaust Hood Exterior:
- Use a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaning solution designed for stainless steel or your hood’s specific material.
- Wipe in the direction of the grain to prevent streaks and restore shine.
Frequency: Wipe down the hood weekly or monthly, based on how greasy it becomes.
4. Inspect and Clear Ductwork
Over time, grease can build up inside the ductwork. This can hinder airflow and increase fire risks, especially for households that do heavy frying.
For safety reasons, duct cleaning is best left to professionals who are equipped with the right tools to remove grease build-up thoroughly and safely.
When to Clean Ductwork:
- Schedule a professional duct cleaning once or twice a year, especially if you cook frequently or prepare oily dishes.
5. Check and Replace Light Bulbs
Many kitchen exhaust hoods include built-in lights to illuminate your cooking area. Check these bulbs regularly to ensure they’re working.
Pro Tip: Consider switching to LED bulbs for better energy efficiency and longevity.
6. Inspect for Wear and Tear
Kitchen exhaust systems, like any appliance, experience wear and tear over time. Watch out for the following warning signs that may indicate the need for professional servicing or replacement parts:
- Strange noises during operation
- Reduced suction or airflow
- Persistent grease smell even after cleaning
- Flickering or dim lights
If you notice any of these issues, contact a trusted service provider to inspect and repair your exhaust system.
Professional Cleaning Services in Singapore
Singapore’s humid climate can make grease and grime even harder to manage. If your kitchen exhaust system needs a deeper clean or professional inspection, hiring a local expert may be your best option.
Many companies in Singapore specialize in cleaning and maintaining kitchen exhaust systems. These professionals use industry-grade equipment to remove grease and ensure optimal airflow.
When selecting a service provider, look for companies with:
- Positive online reviews
- Transparent pricing
- Certifications or experience in kitchen ventilation systems
DIY or Professional Cleaning—Which Should You Choose?
DIY cleaning: Great for regular maintenance like wiping the exhaust hood and cleaning grease filters.
Professional cleaning: Necessary for deep-cleaning ductwork and addressing more complex issues.
Both approaches should work together to keep your exhaust system functioning effectively.
Simple Tips to Prevent Grease Build-Up
- Use the exhaust fan every time you cook.
- Cook with lids on pots and pans to reduce grease splatter.
- Wipe surfaces near the hood daily.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that can corrode the material.
- Get into a regular maintenance routine.
Keep Your Kitchen Safe and Fresh
A clean, well-maintained kitchen exhaust is your kitchen’s unsung hero, quietly keeping your home safe, fresh, and enjoyable. By dedicating time to routine cleaning and proactive maintenance, you’ll ensure it works efficiently for years to come.
Feeling overwhelmed or need help with professional cleaning in Singapore? Reach out to Pawleck for a consultation or to schedule deep cleaning today!
