The maintenance of the house goes far beyond ironing or shaking the dust. There are discreet but indispensable equipment that are often ignored in everyday life. This appliance, present in thousands of kitchens, may be the source of risks they rarely consider themselves. And what seems to be just a layer of fat can hide much more serious dangers.
Importance of the exhaust in the kitchen
The exhaust is a true partner when cooking. By absorbing vapors, odors and fat particles, this device improves the air and reduces the residues that spread around the house. To remain effective, it is essential to ensure frequent cleaning, explains the dietary scientist Bryan quoc le, quoted by HuffPost.
Over time, accumulated fat in internal filters and components affects not only the performance of the appliance, but also the safety and health of the environment. Many ignore the real consequences of this accumulation.
The hidden fat that can cause problems
During the clothing, tiny oil and steam particles are released in the air and end up at the exhaust. Bryan quoc le, cited by the same source, states that “micro-explosions that occur when cooking with oil release droplets that create thick layers of fat in the filters.”
Over the days, this fat forms a sticky film that impairs ventilation, favors mold and can become flammable in contact with heat sources. It is a silent danger that, according to the expert, should not be devalued.
A fire risk that few consider
The main warning of experts is straightforward: the fat accumulated in a neglected exhaust can easily ignite. According to Bryan quoc le, heat proximity or prolonged use of the device increase the risk of combustion. And a fire started in the kitchen can spread quickly.
But the risks do not end there. Clogged filters compromise air circulation. Sabrina TretyAkova, Issa -certified cleaning expert, warns that this “can aggravate respiratory symptoms”, especially in people with rhinitis, asthma or allergies.
A dirty exhaust contaminates and attracts pests
The fat that drips from a poorly clean exhaust can drip over food, carrying harmful microorganisms. Muffetta Krueger, founder of a home care company in New York, says these drops contain “old, rancid and dirty oil, full of microorganisms” and represent a threat to health. The greasy environment also attracts cockroaches, ants and even mice. A small carelessness can turn the kitchen into an unhealthy place.
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How often should clean?
The regularity of cleaning this appliance depends on cooking habits, the same source says. If the stove is used daily, the exhaust maintenance should be done every month. If you cook only occasionally, you can space for two or three months. Bryan quoc le reinforces: “It’s simpler to clean frequently than have to deal with embedded fat.”
In addition, proper maintenance improves the performance of the device. According to TretyAkova, a clean exhaust ventilates faster and has greater longevity.
Effective cleaning in a few steps
To clean the outside of the appliance, just a degreasing microfiber cloth. Inside, you can apply a warm water solution with vinegar or resort to specific products. It is essential to turn off the chain appliance before any intervention, warns Tretyakova, cited by the same source to avoid electric accidents.
One in one, or every three months, a more thorough cleaning is recommended. Muffetta Krueger suggests removing the filters and diving them 15 to 30 minutes in hot water with degreasing. Then just brush gently, rinse well and dry before putting it again.
Disposable Filters: When to change
Some modern models use activated carbon filters that cannot be washed. In these cases, they should be replaced every three to six months, depending on the manufacturer’s use and guidelines. Fan blades, if accessible, should also be cleaned with damp and degreasing cloth. These areas are often forgotten, but they easily accumulate dirt.
A simple gesture with great impact
Cleaning this appliance, according to, is a care that many postpone. However, the dangers resulting from this negligence are serious and, above all, preventable. Respiratory problems, contamination and fires can be prevented with a simple action. The expert’s recommendation is consensual: to integrate the host in the cleaning routine is to protect family health and prevent domestic accidents. As Bryan Qoc Le concludes, “Cleaning frequently is simple and effective, and avoids major problems.”
As a curiosity, it is known that in some Nordic countries, the exhaust’s cleaning is mandatory by law every six months, especially in leased housing. Already exist, however, exhausts with sensors who warn when fat reaches critical levels? This functionality is becoming a trend in top-of-the-art models.
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