Kitchen Exhaust Duct: What Every Homeowner Should Know

If you’ve ever wondered why your kitchen smells like fried food even after you turn off the cooker, the answer is usually the exhaust duct. A clean, well‑working duct pulls steam, smoke, and grease out of the room, keeping the air fresh and protecting your cabinets from grime. Below you’ll find simple steps to keep the duct humming, signs it needs help, and how to decide whether you can DIY or should call a pro.

How to Clean Your Kitchen Exhaust Duct

Cleaning the duct is easier than most people think. First, turn off the power at the circuit breaker – safety first. Remove the vent cover; most are held on with a few screws or clips. Soak the cover in hot, soapy water and scrub away grease with a non‑scratch scrubber.

Next, grab a flexible brush or a dryer‑vent cleaning kit. Insert it into the duct and work it back and forth to dislodge built‑up grime. For stubborn buildup, spray a kitchen‑grade degreaser and let it sit for a few minutes before brushing again. Pull the brush out and wipe the interior with a damp rag. Finish by re‑installing the cover and restoring power.

Common Problems and Quick Fixes

Even with regular cleaning, ducts can develop issues. A humming noise often means the fan motor is struggling because of dust or a mis‑aligned fan blade. Turn off the fan, remove the housing, and give the motor a gentle dust‑off. If the blade is bent, straighten it with pliers – but only if you’re comfortable doing so.

Reduced airflow is another red flag. Check for blockages at the exterior vent – leaves, nests, or even a loose metal flap can choke the duct. Clear any debris and make sure the flap opens freely when the fan runs. If airflow is still weak, the duct might be collapsed or kinked. A short section of new metal or flexible duct can be spliced in with foil tape; however, if the damage is extensive, it’s time to call a specialist.

Lastly, watch out for weird smells (like a burnt plastic odor). That usually means the fan motor is overheating. Shut down the system immediately and inspect the wiring for melted insulation. Replace any damaged wires and consider hiring an electrician if you’re unsure.

When in doubt, remember that a professional can save you time and prevent costly mistakes. A qualified vent technician will test airflow, check for code compliance, and install new sections that meet UK building regulations.

Regular maintenance – a quick visual check each month and a deep clean every six months – will keep your kitchen exhaust duct working efficiently and extend the life of your extractor fan.