What Is a Kitchen Extractor Fan? | eHow

A kitchen extractor fan is typically installed over the stove to expel fumes, smoke and aromas from the kitchen. The fan is typically enclosed in a canopy, and is attached to one or more motors, depending on the type of kitchen extractor fan that you want to install in your house.

Kitchen extractor fans are primarily used for pulling out smoke generated from cooking. Some extractor fans have a small, chimney-like appliance, which extracts odors and fumes. There are others that may be able to filter the air and circulate it around the kitchen. These types of extractor fans have charcoal filters.

There are four main types of extractor fans. Axial fans can move air over short distances. Centrifugal fans can move air over long distances by creating high pressures, which allow the air to travel further and faster. Mixed flow fans have features of both axial and centrifugal fans. Recirculating range fans filter the air using charcoal filters before recirculating the air.

Kitchen extractor fans are very useful. They can control the humidity inside a kitchen, slowing food spoilage. They also control the odors and the fumes inside the kitchen, making it easier to work there. The gas burners inside a kitchen can cause a lot of heat. The kitchen extractor fan can also remove heat, and keep the kitchen cool.

The maintenance of kitchen extractor fans is not very elaborate. Most models are easy to dismantle and clean. These can be cleaned mechanically or in a dishwasher. In the recirculating type fans, the charcoal filters may need cleaning from time to time to ensure the effectiveness of the filters. Fan blades can be cleaned mechanically.

The two main things to consider before buying a kitchen extractor fan are the amount of noise that it generates and the ability to expel smoke. There are chimneys and fans that work almost noiselessly. Appearance of the fan may be another consideration if you are buying a fan to match the d cor of your kitchen.