Replace a cooker hood filter

Turn off the hood, take out the old grease and carbon filters, clean or replace them, then refit.

CH-01Turn off and gather your filtersSwitch the cooker hood off and unplug it, or switch it off at the wall socket if it's on a plug. If it's hardwired with no local switch, turn it off at the consumer unit before you start. Check your hood's instructions or the filter itself to see if it takes a metal grease filter, a paper one, or has a separate carbon filter behind the grease filter.

CH-02Remove the old grease filterMost grease filters sit behind the front panel and release with a small clip, catch or twist-lock — check both sides. Slide the filter out carefully, as it will be greasy. Lay some old newspaper or a towel underneath first to catch drips.

CH-03Clean or replace the grease filterMetal mesh filters can usually go in hot water with washing-up liquid, or in the dishwasher on a normal cycle — check the manual first. Scrub gently with a soft brush to shift baked-on grease, then dry fully before refitting. Paper or non-washable filters should be thrown away and swapped for a new one rather than cleaned.

1 bottle · Washing-up liquid

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1 each · Replacement mesh grease filter (if not washable)

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CH-04Replace the carbon filter, if fittedCarbon filters only exist on recirculating hoods (ones that don't vent outside), and they can't be washed — they need replacing on a schedule, usually every 3–6 months. Pull the old one out from behind the grease filter and press or clip the new one into the same spot. Check the arrow or marking on the filter shows the right way round for airflow.

1 each · Carbon filter (hood-specific)

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CH-05Refit the grease filter and testSlide the clean or new grease filter back into its slot and check the clips or catches click shut fully — a loose filter will rattle or drop grease. Turn the power back on and run the hood on a low speed for a minute to check it's seated correctly and running quietly.

CH-06Tidy upWipe any grease off the hood casing, hob and surrounding worktop with a damp cloth. Bin the old paper filter or carbon filter with your general waste, unless your local council recycles them separately. Note the date on your calendar or phone so you know when the carbon filter is next due.

1 each · Cloth

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