Have you ever cleaned your range hood filter? It's a commonly overlooked cleaning job, but a consistent schedule helps maintain power efficiency, better air quality in your home and a longer life for the blower.

The range hood is a large fan suspended over the stove, designed to filter out airborne grease, oil, fumes, smoke and more while you're frying, searing and sauteeing your family meals. The grease filter is your hood's first line of defense against all that your stove dishes out, but without regular cleaning, it can become clogged with greasy, grimy residue and build-up, diminishing performance and air quality.

Virtually all range hoods contain removable filters in the underside of the hood. These filters are typically comprised of fabric, metal and charcoal.

Metallic grease filters are usually made from aluminum or stainless steel, and should be cleaned regularly. Top manufacturers recommend that you clean metallic filters at least once a month, to clear out all the greasy, oily smoke and grime your stove produces.

Fabric filters should be replaced rather than cleaned, usually every 3-4 months depending on frequency of use.

Charcoal filters are generally only found in ductless range hoods, and should be replaced rather than cleaned at 3-4 month intervals, depending on your cooking habits.

Directions for Cleaning Range Hood Filters:

1. Place your metallic filter in a sink or container large enough for it to fit in, and spray entirely with Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner.
2. Use a nylon or non-abrasive brush to remove grease, smoke deposits and build-up.
3. Allow to sit for 3-5 minutes for the cleaner to penetrate tough buildup.
4. Rinse filters with hot water and allow to air dry.
5. Once dry, return filter to the range hood.