The short answer: clean metal mesh or baffle grease filters about once a month (Broan-NuTone). Charcoal filters in recirculating hoods can't be washed, so replace them every 3 to 6 months, or sooner if they're saturated. Mesh filters wear out too; Broan-NuTone says around once a year, if needed.
The range hood filter is one of the small monthly jobs in our how often to replace household items lookup, alongside the fridge water filter and the HVAC filter. Below: how to tell which filter you have, how to clean or replace it, and a printable schedule.
Which filter do you have?
Most hoods use one or two of these. Pop the filter out (most have a tab, latch or slide) and take a look.
- Aluminum mesh. Layers of fine metal mesh in a frame. Common on ducted hoods that vent outside. Wash it and reuse it.
- Baffle. Sturdy metal panels with angled channels, common on professional-style hoods. Wash and reuse; Broan-NuTone says they can last several years with care.
- Charcoal (carbon). A pad or cartridge, usually sitting behind the metal grease filter. Only recirculating (ductless) hoods use them. They soak up odors before the air goes back into the kitchen, and they can't be washed.
Ducted or recirculating? A ducted hood connects to a duct that runs up through the cabinet, wall or ceiling to the outside. A recirculating hood blows the air back into the room and has a charcoal filter. If you can't tell, your owner's manual will say.
How to clean a metal grease filter
- Turn the fan and light off. Haier Appliances also advises disconnecting the power before cleaning.
- Remove the filters. Your manual shows how for your model.
- Soak them in warm water with a mild dish detergent. Broan-NuTone suggests 15 to 20 minutes per side.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse and shake off the water.
- Let them dry completely before you put them back (Haier Appliances).
Dishwasher? Some metal filters are dishwasher safe, so check your manual first. If yours is, Broan-NuTone recommends a non-phosphate detergent and notes that any discoloration won't affect how the filter works. While the filters are out, wipe down the inside of the hood. And never run the hood without its grease filters in place (Haier Appliances).
How to replace a charcoal filter
Charcoal traps odors, and once it's full, washing won't bring it back. Broan-NuTone gives 3 to 6 months, and Haier Appliances says up to 6 months with normal use. In a kitchen that sees light cooking, Broan-NuTone says they may last longer.
- Turn off the hood and remove the metal grease filter.
- Unclip or twist out the old charcoal filter.
- Fit the new one the same way, then put the grease filter back.
- Note the date so you know when the next one is due.
Signs it's overdue
- Cooking smells or smoke hang around after you've finished.
- You can see grease or a sticky film on the filter.
- The fan feels weaker, or sounds louder and rattlier than usual.
- Hold a metal filter up to a light. If light struggles to get through, it needs cleaning or replacing.
Broan-NuTone lists all four as signs to act on.
Finding the right replacement
Filters are made to fit specific hoods, so start with the hood's model number. Look for a label inside the hood (it's easier to spot with the grease filters out), or check the owner's manual. Broan-NuTone recommends checking the model number before you order and using manufacturer-approved parts.
Take a photo of the label and of the part number on the old filter, so you have both when you shop. If your hood uses charcoal filters, keeping a spare on hand means the next swap takes a couple of minutes. It's the same idea as keeping a spare refrigerator water filter in the cupboard.
Range hood filter schedule (printable)
| Filter type | How often | How to clean or replace | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum mesh | Clean monthly; replace when worn (around yearly, if needed) | Soak in warm water with mild detergent, or the dishwasher if your manual allows | 15 to 20 minutes of soaking per side, then dry fully |
| Baffle | Clean monthly | Same as mesh; can last several years | 15 to 20 minutes of soaking per side, then dry fully |
| Charcoal (recirculating hoods only) | Replace every 3 to 6 months, or when saturated | Swap for a new filter; don't wash it | A few minutes |
| Inside of the hood | Whenever you clean the filters | Wipe off grease while the filters are out | A few minutes |
If you're doing a monthly kitchen round, add the dishwasher filter to the same day. For the rest of the kitchen, see our printable home maintenance checklist.
Questions people ask
Can a range hood filter go in the dishwasher?
Many metal mesh and baffle filters can, but check your owner's manual first. Broan-NuTone suggests a non-phosphate detergent if you do. Charcoal filters should never be washed.
What happens if you never clean it?
Grease builds up, the fan pulls less air, and cooking smells and smoke hang around the kitchen. The hood can also get noisier (Broan-NuTone).
Do charcoal filters need replacing?
Yes. They can't be washed or reused, and Broan-NuTone says to replace them every 3 to 6 months, or sooner if they're saturated.
How do I know if my hood is ducted or recirculating?
A ducted hood connects to a duct that carries air outside. A recirculating hood sends the air back into the kitchen and uses a charcoal filter. Your owner's manual will confirm which you have.
Can you clean a charcoal filter?
No. Washing won't restore the charcoal, so swap it for a new one (Broan-NuTone, Haier Appliances).
Let Tagwell remember for you
Add this to your home in a tap, get a reminder when it's due, and keep the part details on file. Free to start.
Sources
- Broan-NuTone: Range hood filter maintenance
- Broan-NuTone Help: How do I clean my range hood's grease filters?
- Haier Appliances (GE Appliances): Range hood grease and charcoal filters
General guidance only. Follow your manufacturer's instructions, and call a licensed professional for gas, electrical, roofing or anything that feels unsafe.