Why do you really need a hood over the stove? And it's not about the smells, as you might think
In the modern kitchen, a hood has become almost a mandatory element. Many believe that its main function is to eliminate odors, but is this true? Let's figure out what a kitchen hood is really for and why it is important for your home, informs Ukr.Media.
Not fighting odors
The main function of a kitchen hood is not so much to remove odors, but to capture the smallest particles of oil that are formed during cooking. When we fry, stew or boil food, vapors and microparticles of fat enter the air and spread imperceptibly throughout the room.
Invisible problem
When cooking, oil heats up and partially evaporates. These vapors rise and, if there is no hood, spread throughout the kitchen and surrounding areas. Over time, they settle on:
- Kitchen ceiling and walls;
- Kitchen furniture and appliances;
- Curtains and other textile surfaces;
- Decorative elements.
Without extraction, these particles form a thin sticky layer on all surfaces. Dust sticks to this layer, making surfaces not only dirty but also difficult to clean. When oxidized in air, the oil polymerizes and turns into a kind of drying oil – forming a persistent film that is difficult to remove.
The amount of oil deposits is surprising
The scale of the problem becomes apparent when you see how much grease builds up on your range hood filters. Even with regular cooking (without deep-frying), filters can accumulate over 100-200 grams of grease in a year. Now imagine what all that could be settling on your kitchen surfaces.
Types of hoods and their effectiveness
There are two main types of hoods:
Hoods with a vent into the ventilation duct are the most effective option, as contaminated air is completely removed from the room.
Recirculating hoods – These filter the air and return it to the room. These hoods are less efficient, but still capture a significant portion of the grease deposits.
It is worth noting that carbon filters in recirculation hoods are not as effective in combating odors as is commonly believed. However, their main function is to capture oil particles.
Additional benefits of using a hood
In addition to protecting against fat deposits, the hood provides:
- Reducing humidity in the kitchen, which prevents the appearance of mold;
- Removal of combustion products during cooking;
- Creating a healthier atmosphere for breathing;
- Less contamination of kitchen appliances.
Hood care
Regular maintenance of the hood is important. Metal grease filters should be cleaned periodically (they are usually suitable for washing in a dishwasher or by hand using degreasing agents).
Carbon filters in recirculation hoods must be changed periodically.
So, a kitchen hood is not just about fighting odors. It is an important element that protects your home from invisible but constant vapor pollution. Regular use of a hood while cooking significantly reduces the amount of grease that settles on kitchen surfaces, reduces the need for frequent general cleaning, and keeps the interior clean and attractive for many years.
Джерело: Source
