Where Do Kitchen Extractor Fans Go?

on April 8, 2023

Welcome to the world of kitchen ventilation! Kitchen extractor fans are essential appliances that provide adequate ventilation and air circulation in your kitchen. They work by extracting smoke, steam, and other airborne particles that are generated during cooking, helping to keep your kitchen clean, fresh, and free of unwanted odors.

However, have you ever wondered where the air from your extractor fan goes? Does it disappear into thin air, or does it have a destination? If you’re planning to install a kitchen extractor fan or simply curious about how they work, this blog is for you.

Kitchen extractor fans are typically installed either on a wall or on the ceiling above the cooking area. They are usually positioned in such a way that they can effectively capture and extract smoke, steam, and other airborne particles generated during cooking.

If you opt for a wall-mounted extractor fan, it will be placed on an external wall of your kitchen, usually directly above the hob or cooker. This type of extractor fan is ducted to the outside of the building to allow for effective ventilation.

Ceiling-mounted extractor fans, on the other hand, are typically installed above the hob or cooker in the ceiling. They are also ducted to the outside of the building for effective ventilation.

In some cases, kitchen extractor fans may be installed in a downdraft configuration, where the fan is located in a nearby cabinet or below the cooking surface. This type of extractor fan draws air downwards and extracts it out through ducting.

Regardless of the installation method you choose, it is essential to ensure that the extractor fan is correctly installed and adequately sized to provide sufficient ventilation for your kitchen.

Are there different types extraction fans?

There are different types of extraction fans available for use in kitchens. Here are some of the most common types:

Wall-Mounted Extractor Fans: Wall-mounted extractor fans are attached to an external wall of the kitchen and vented outside. They are suitable for kitchens where the cooking area is located close to an external wall.

Ceiling-Mounted Extractor Fans: Ceiling-mounted extractor fans are installed into the ceiling above the cooking area and vented outside. They are suitable for kitchens with no external walls or where wall-mounted extraction is not possible.
Island Extractor Fans: Island extractor fans are suspended from the ceiling and are suitable for kitchens with an island or peninsula cooking area.
Downdraft Extractor Fans: Downdraft extractor fans are installed into the work surface or a nearby cabinet and draw the air downwards before venting it outside. They are suitable for kitchens where traditional extraction methods are not possible.

Recirculating Extractor Fans: Recirculating extractor fans work by filtering the air and releasing it back into the kitchen. They do not vent the air outside and are suitable for kitchens where traditional extraction methods are not possible.
In-Line Extractor Fans: In-line extractor fans are installed within the ducting system and are suitable for larger kitchens or where multiple extraction points are required.

Each type of extractor fan has its own advantages and disadvantages. The type of fan you choose will depend on your specific requirements and the layout of your kitchen. It’s essential to consult with a professional installer or ventilation specialist to help you choose the right type of extractor fan for your kitchen.

How do you maintain and clean a kitchen extractor fan?

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your kitchen extractor fan are essential to ensure it operates efficiently and prolong its lifespan. Here are some tips for maintaining and cleaning your kitchen extractor fan:

Turn off power: Before you start cleaning your extractor fan, make sure you turn off the power supply to the fan to avoid any electrical hazards.
Clean the filter: The filter in your extractor fan traps grease, dust, and other particles from the air. Clean the filter regularly to ensure it continues to work effectively. You can use warm soapy water to clean the filter or place it in the dishwasher.

Clean the hood: The hood above your extractor fan can also collect grease and dust. Use a degreaser or warm soapy water to clean the hood regularly.
Check the ducting: The ducting that connects your extractor fan to the outside can also collect grease and dust. Check the ducting regularly and clean it if necessary.
Lubricate moving parts: Some extractor fans have moving parts that may require lubrication. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on how to lubricate your fan’s moving parts.

Replace the filter: If your extractor fan’s filter is damaged or worn out, replace it with a new one. Most filters are easily replaceable, and you can buy replacements from your local hardware store.

It’s essential to clean your kitchen extractor fan regularly to maintain its efficiency and prevent any fire hazards that could arise from accumulated grease. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and cleaning, and if you’re unsure, seek advice from a professional installer.

How do you choose the right size of a kitchen extractor fan for your kitchen?

Choosing the right size of a kitchen extractor fan is crucial to ensure that it provides adequate ventilation for your kitchen. The size of the extractor fan you need will depend on the size of your kitchen, the type of cooking you do, and the amount of ventilation required.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right size of a kitchen extractor fan:

Kitchen Size: The size of your kitchen is the primary consideration when choosing an extractor fan. The larger your kitchen, the larger the fan you will need to ensure effective ventilation.
Type of Cooking: The type of cooking you do in your kitchen will affect the amount of ventilation required. If you cook frequently or use appliances that generate more smoke and steam, you may need a larger fan.

Hood Width: The width of your hood should match the size of your cooker. If you have a large cooker, you will need a larger hood and fan to ensure sufficient ventilation.
Airflow Rate: The airflow rate is the amount of air that the extractor fan can move per hour. It is measured in cubic meters per hour (m3/h). The airflow rate you need will depend on the size of your kitchen and the type of cooking you do.
Ducting: The length of ducting required will also affect the size of the fan. Longer ducting requires a larger fan to maintain adequate airflow.

It is recommended that you consult a ventilation specialist or a professional installer to help you choose the right size of extractor fan for your kitchen. They will be able to assess your kitchen and recommend the appropriate fan size to ensure effective ventilation.