While cooking delicious meals in the kitchen, the rising smoke, oil grease, and tiny spice particles gradually accumulate on the blades and mesh of the exhaust fan. If these parts are not cleaned for a long time, the fan begins to look dirty and its ability to pull air outward drops significantly. Sometimes, a thick layer of grease even affects the speed of the fan, causing it to slow down.
If the exhaust fan in your kitchen has also become filthy and is no longer expelling air properly, there is no need to spend money on expensive commercial cleaners. You can easily clean the exhaust fan using a few common items already present in your home. The grime can be tackled effectively without relying on harsh chemicals.
Using Baking Soda for Tough Grease
If the grease and oil layer on your fan has become quite old and thick, baking soda can prove to be very useful. Prepare a thick paste by mixing a little water into baking soda. Next, apply this paste generously over the greasy areas and leave it undisturbed for about 10 to 15 minutes. After that, scrub it clean using a sponge or an old toothbrush. Finally, wipe it thoroughly with a damp cloth, and your exhaust fan will start looking clean and fresh again.
The Power of White Vinegar
You can also use white vinegar to eliminate stubborn grease from the exhaust fan. Take a little white vinegar on a cloth and wipe down the grime accumulated on the fan mesh and blades. If the contamination is excessive, clean it first with warm water and dish soap, and then follow up with vinegar to get rid of any remaining residue.
Lemon for Breaking Down Oil and Odors
The citric acid present in lemons easily breaks down oil layers and also removes any unpleasant odors coming from the fan. Once all the dirt is successfully removed, wash the fan components with warm water mixed with dishwashing liquid, and then dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth so that your exhaust fan looks as good as new.
The Warm Water and Detergent Method
The easiest way to clean is by using warm water and detergent. First, fill a large tub with warm water and mix two spoons of washing powder or dishwashing liquid into it. Now, take out the fan blades and submerge them in this water for 20 to 25 minutes. This will soften the tough grease accumulated on them. Then, gently scrub the parts using an old brush or sponge and rinse them with clean water.
Important Safety Precautions
Before you begin cleaning the exhaust fan, make sure to turn off the main power connection. Do not pour water directly onto the motor or any electrical components. Reattach the parts only after drying the washed components completely. If the fan motor is making unusual noises, running very slowly, or failing to expel air properly even after a thorough cleaning, do not rely solely on home remedies and consult a technician.
