Exhaust charcoal filter: a great way to clean indoor air

Most kitchen work is accompanied by the appearance of odors, which can persist for a long time. To prevent the spread of aromas in the apartment, forced air ventilation is organized. It is important to purchase a charcoal filter for the hood if you install a recirculation-type device that does not need an air duct. In addition to helping to eliminate odors, the filter also removes dust particles and other impurities from the air.

If you install a recirculation hood, you cannot do without periodical replacement of the carbon filter

What is the advantage of buying a kitchen hood with a filter without a drain

Circulating (recirculating) models of hoods are distinguished by the fact that they do not need to be vented through an air duct, because the air flow is cleaned by passing through two cleaning stages. In kitchen hoods with a charcoal filter, the polluted air first passes through the anti-grease filter and then through the charcoal filter, after which it returns to the room.

Kitchen hoods with a filter without a drain are distinguished by the fact that they do not need to be vented

Interesting information! In addition to recirculation hoods, carbon filters are also installed in combined models of devices. A distinctive feature of the models is the ability to start air recirculation, as well as the output of the flow to the ventilation using an air duct.

Despite the fact that recirculating types of hoods require constant filter replacement, which entails additional costs, they are very popular due to the presence of a large number of advantages, among which are the following:

1. Autonomy. To operate the device, the presence of a ventilation shaft is not necessary, which is especially important in a situation when it is located far from the place where the hob is planned to be installed and you do not want to stretch a massive pipe through the entire kitchen.
2. Small size. Hoods with a charcoal filter take up a minimum amount of space above the surface of the stove and are easy to hide even in a small cabinet.Especially little space is taken up by sliders, which are extended only for the period of use.
3. High-quality air purification without unnecessary ventilation. In winter, when it is cold outside, frequent ventilation will lead to a drop in the temperature in the room, which will entail additional expenses for heating. After installing the hood with a filter, frequent ventilation is not required.
4. Easy to install and connect. To use the device, you just need to fix it above the hob, and you don't have to build any decorative boxes or mask bulky pipes.
5. Simplicity of care. For normal operation, it is necessary to choose the right filters for the hood and change them from time to time; grease nets also require additional cleaning.

Despite the fact that filter hoods require constant replacement, they are very popular.

The price of a coal hood is slightly more than the cost of a conventional device connected to ventilation. Among budget models, you can find good options, the price of which is 2500-5500 rubles. The filter needs to be replaced every six months, depending on the application. The price of a carbon filter for ventilation, depending on the model and characteristics, is in the range of 400-1000 rubles.

In addition to a large number of advantages, circulating hoods have several disadvantages, for example, low productivity and the need for constant filter replacement. Whether this is a disadvantage, everyone decides for himself.

Why it is recommended to purchase carbon filters

The work of any hood is based on air purification and prevention of cooking odors in the kitchen. The principle of operation of a charcoal filter for a kitchen hood is based on purifying the air passing through it not only from odors, but also from small particles of dust, dirt and grease. Externally, the device is a rectangular cassette installed in a plastic case. Sometimes in retail outlets you can find options made of synthetic material.

The work of the charcoal filter is to cleanse the air passing through it not only from smell, but also from dirt, dust and grease.

There are also differences between the filters that are used in circulating hoods. So, a cartridge-type filter has an adsorbent located inside. In the case of using a textile filler, the active ingredient is an impregnation. Universal exhaust filters provide a high degree of protection of the air flow from both harmful impurities and hot steam particles.

In a carbon filter cartridge, the active ingredient is small granules of activated carbon or even carbon powder, the main feature of which is the ability to absorb and retain various impurities contained in the drawn air. With active use, the filter on the hood is recommended to be changed at least once every 4 months. The cleaning element is installed immediately behind the grease mesh, which protects it from the ingress of large fatty particles that can disrupt the operation of the carbon sorbent.

Interesting information! The purchase of a charcoal filter for the hood in the kitchen allows you to make the appliance work efficiently and to improve the indoor climate. And the constant use of a charcoal hood not only helps to reduce air pollution, but also protects kitchen furniture from plaque and grease particles that form during kitchen work.

The active ingredient in the carbon filter cartridge is small granules of activated carbon

Various types of activated carbon are used for the production of filters: stone, peat or coconut.For production, impregnated coal is also used, which is a stone or coconut material treated with special compounds and certain reagents that increase its operational capabilities.

Filters are classified according to their application. So, many companies, in addition to filters for household use, also produce industrial options that differ not only in appearance, but also in weight. Some models of industrial filters reach a weight of 300 and even 400 kg. Such options for charcoal filters are appropriate to install in public institutions and in production.

It is interesting! Some types of carbon filters are designed for installation in waste water treatment plants in order to absorb organic pollutants. They differ not only in the granularity of the coal content, but also in shape, because they can be concave or convex.

The combined filter, in addition to the carbon granule cartridge, has a dense textile layer

Charcoal filter for hood: what is the principle of operation

Carbon deposits, dust, small particles inevitably appear during cooking, and recirculation hoods prevent them from settling on various surfaces. Unlike extraction grease filters, the carbon cartridges can be replaced depending on the degree of soiling.

Their other distinguishing feature (in comparison with conventional air duct hoods) is the fact that the air, passing through double filtration, is not discharged into the ventilation shaft, but returns to the room. This is especially true if a gas boiler is installed in the kitchen, which consumes a large amount of air. During an hour of operation, the device can cope with cleaning from 2.5 to 22 thousand cubic meters of air, and the aerodynamic resistance reaches 120 Pa. It is important to note that for normal operation of the hood, it is required that the humidity in the room does not exceed 70%.

The direct operation of filters for a kitchen hood is provided by turning on a motor that supplies air flow to the hood through one or several fans. In this case, the carbon adsorbent is capable of absorbing harmful impurities, and the inner filling of the cartridge also absorbs light ions. In some cases, the degree of filter contamination can be estimated by the increase in its initial mass, as well as by the change in density. In order for the hood to work efficiently, you should constantly monitor the cleanliness of the filter, especially during prolonged work in the kitchen.

The operation of the charcoal filters is ensured by turning on the fan, which supplies the air flow to the hood

The combination filter works a little differently from the conventional carbon filter. In this case, at the first stage, the polluted stream enters through a dense synthetic textile layer, in which there is a carbon impregnation. Most often, viscose acts as a synthetic textile, on which most of the large particles remain.

After the first stage of cleaning, the second begins, which consists in passing air through the cartridge with carbon granules. The result of this double purification is truly clean air that does not have any foreign smell.

For ease of use, many modern hoods are equipped with special sensors that signal the need to replace a dirty filter. This helps to extend the life of the instrument and to ensure efficient cleaning of harmful particles.

Pros and cons of carbon cartridges, differences from the grease filters for the hood

There is a big difference between different types of filters. This is due to the fact that anti-grease aluminum filters for extraction are considered to be designs that provide coarse air purification, while after using carbon cartridges, the flow is freed from both large and small air polluting particles.

Aluminum hoods for the hood provide only coarse air purification

Important! The main purpose of anti-grease filters is to protect the fans located inside the hood, and the result of the use of carbon cartridges is complete air purification.

The main advantages of carbon filters (relative to ordinary aluminum ones) are considered to be a good work result and high-quality air purification from odors, as well as the ease of replacing contaminated elements. To change the charcoal filter, there is no need to contact a specialist or do not use the device for a long time. You don't have to choose the most expensive filter options. There is always the possibility of purchasing more affordable options that are not inferior in quality to original cartridges.

The undoubted advantage of using coal systems, in comparison with ordinary grease systems, is the fact that the smells coming out through the ventilation shaft will not irritate the neighbors, since the air does not leave the kitchen.

Among the disadvantages of installing coal systems, one can single out the fact that for the most part they are disposable, in contrast to aluminum filters for hoods, which, as they become dirty, can be washed and cleaned using simple methods. In case of heavy contamination of the carbon cartridge, air purification is practically not performed.

Carbon adsorbent of the filter absorbs harmful impurities, and the inner filling of the cartridge absorbs even light ions

Features of installing and replacing carbon filters for hoods

Before installing a built-in hood with a carbon filter, you should pay attention to the manufacturer's recommendations regarding which replacement cartridges are required for it. This is due to the fact that many firms set certain restrictions on use and replacement. So, on average, it is recommended to replace the cleaners at least once every 4-5 months, and with infrequent use, it is permissible to stretch the terms up to 6 months.

Carbon filters for the hood of the German company "Bosch" are designed to operate throughout the year, because reliable adsorbents are used in the manufacture, and the build quality of the device is at a high level. Of course, the price of these filters will be significantly higher than the cost of products of other less popular brands, but the cheaper the cartridge is, the more often it will have to be changed.

Helpful information! Before purchasing additional carbon filters, you should study the technical part of the issue, clarify for what period of use the design is designed. It should not be forgotten that the service life of the filter can both increase and decrease: it all depends on how often and for how long the hob is used.

Manufacturers recommend replacing carbon filters at least every 4-6 months.

You need to understand that it is impossible to clean the used carbon filter with your own hands, because the main component is finely crushed coal that cannot be recycled. Most often, manufacturers recommend purchasing cassettes of their own production, although there are also universal charcoal filters for hoods that can be installed in a device manufactured by any company.

Related article:

Kitchen hoods with ventilation ducts: making the right choice

Types of hoods with outlet for ventilation. Selection options. Varieties of air ducts. Features of installation.

The purchase of such a product allows you to save time searching for the desired option. After the purchase, it is important to adhere to a certain algorithm for a safe replacement of the part.

How to extend the term of use and is it possible to change the contents of the cassette

The first thing to do before replacing the cartridge is to disconnect the device from the mains and dismantle the air intake mesh. After that, the grease trap for the hood is removed, as a result of which access is opened directly to the cartridge with the carbon filter.

After replacing the cartridge, it is recommended to turn on the hood for 4-5 minutes to dry the contents of the charcoal filter

Some cassette designs offer the ability to open the case, which allows you to replace content as it gets dirty without buying an entire cassette. To perform this action, after the filter has expired, it is required to pour out the dirty filler and fill in new granular activated carbon. After that, the updated cassette is assembled and installed in place.

The correct installation of the filter is indicated by a characteristic click. If the installation is not carried out correctly, most likely the device will not turn on. In a similar way, in the future, you can update the contents of the charcoal filter for the hood with your own hands.

In order to extend the life of the cleaning cartridge, experts recommend leaving the device to work for an additional 4-5 minutes after the installation is complete. During this time, drier air passes through the mesh on the hood, and the contents of the carbon filter will dry out, which will prevent it from pressing. In addition to ensuring a longer cartridge life, this simple manipulation will help to extend the operation of the hood itself.

To extend the life of the carbon filter, experts recommend keeping grease nets clean.

Another point that allows you to increase the life of the filter is keeping the grease mesh clean. The cleaner it is, the less likely large particles will get onto the sorbing element. This means that the coal will remain loose for a longer time, especially since the anti-fat cleaning process does not take much time. Basic mesh cleaning options:

• wash the part in soapy water or with a good fat-dissolving detergent using a stiff brush;
• pour over with boiling water and grate with a soda-based paste;
• clean with a directed jet of hot air from a household steam cleaner;
• pass through the wash cycle at the highest temperature in the dishwasher.

Users note that any of the methods allows you to make the grease trap cleaner, but the best result can be achieved only after mechanical action on the part with a brush. It should be borne in mind that the installation of the mesh in place should be carried out only after complete drying, otherwise it will quickly clog again.

Some designs of charcoal filter cassettes offer the possibility of opening the housing and replacing the contents

When buying a hood, it is additionally recommended to take into account the fact that some models are produced without a grease mesh. Such devices are not advised to choose due to the fact that there is a large load on the carbon filter, which, in addition to small particles, has to filter large, moist and oily particles. All this affects the cleaner and leads to its rapid failure. For this reason, it is better to give preference to hoods with a grease trap.

How to choose the filter that is optimal for the functioning of the hood

For the most part, a charcoal filter is suitable for use in a variety of hood models. Any consultant in the shopping center will help you choose the right option for a specific device. But nevertheless, experts recommend inquiring about the possibility of purchasing and replacing filters before buying a circulating hood, and it is even better to immediately buy several replacement filters, which will be enough for 1-2 years of use.

Helpful information! When buying a charcoal filter from a source other than the hood manufacturer, pay attention to the box. Most often, the package contains a list of hood models that are designed for the installation of a specific filter. It should be borne in mind that the shape of the filter must be selected depending on whether the device has a pull-out panel or it is a stationary version.

When buying a carbon filter, you need to pay attention to the packaging, which indicates a list of hood models to which the cartridge fits

You should not rely on the fact that a hood with a charcoal filter, regardless of the area of ​​the room, is able to completely rid the kitchen of odor and prevent its spread throughout the home. Recirculation devices, like ordinary ones, are designed to clean a certain volume of air, so before buying you need to pay attention to what area the device is suitable for in the room. Often, coal hoods are 20% less efficient than flow hoods.

The choice of a filter element should be done thoughtfully in order to acquire a truly correct design, because it will not be possible to place a synthetic version of the purifier in a place designed for installing a cartridge. Very often, due to the lower cost, users purchase filters made of synthetic fabric, not considering the fact that they are not suitable for many models of coal hoods. Even if it is possible to install the structure, the performance of the hood will be significantly affected by this.

Despite the fact that cheaper universal filter systems have been invented, it is still recommended to give preference to the models of the same manufacturer from which the hood was purchased. It is precisely the cassettes designed for a specific version that will ideally occupy the niche intended for them, which will ensure more efficient operation of the device.

Main manufacturers of charcoal filters for household use

All companies that produce recirculation hoods for kitchens are engaged in the production of carbon filters. For the convenience of users, filters are manufactured not only for standard rectangular hoods, but also for wall-mounted and corner versions. Depending on the build quality, the operation of many hoods is carried out practically without unnecessary noise, which cannot be said about devices with an air duct.

It is not recommended to purchase charcoal filters for hoods of dubious manufacturers.

When buying a model, you need to take into account the number of carbon filters and be sure to choose options equipped with fat nets for the hood. It must be remembered that the more built-in filters there are, the more you need to buy for replacement, which will affect further waste.

You should not purchase cassettes for hoods from dubious manufacturers that do not indicate the recommended filter life. Otherwise, there is a possibility that the hood will not work efficiently. It is necessary that the performance of the filter not only matches the performance of the exhaust fan, but also slightly exceeds this indicator in order to increase the service life. For example, if, according to its characteristics, the hood is designed to purify 250 cubic meters of air, and a filter designed for 500 m³ is installed in it, it will need to be changed not after 3 months, but at least after six months.

Important! Before buying a filter, you should make sure that it is suitable for your specific hood model, otherwise the purchase will be useless. And you should also pay attention to the build quality and the availability of certificates from the seller.

The company "Folter" produces carbon filters for hoods in a wide range and high quality standards

Carbon filters for hoods "Folter" are presented in a wide range and meet the established quality standards. The company produces various options designed for installation in a circulating type of hoods, as well as in supply and exhaust devices. Filters help to clean the air stream from fine dust particles, gas vapors, foreign odors, and also to carry out air conditioning.

The average price of filters is within 2000 rubles. The key advantage is that most of the models are universal.Due to the high quality and the use of good sorbents, the service life reaches 5 months, and the filters themselves are distinguished by high efficiency of air purification.

Other hood filter manufacturers: Krona, Jet, Hansa

The company "Krona" is considered a popular German manufacturer specializing in the production of high-quality kitchen hoods. The company strives to constantly evolve and develop technologically advanced systems that create a pleasant microclimate in the kitchen. Each appliance comes with a filter for the "Krona" hood, which allows you to effectively deal with air pollution in the kitchen, and this is also facilitated by a reliably assembled hood body that does not have unnecessary gaps or slots.

Average service life of Krona carbon filters is 100-130 operating hours

Besides the fact that filters for Krona hoods provide reliable elimination of odors and impurities in the air, they protect the engine from the penetration of fatty particles that impair its operation. All of the company's filters are easy to install and fit a wide range of models. Due to the fact that most of the company's hoods are equipped with two fans, 2 filters are included in the kit.

The price of a set of filters for the Krona hood is 1590 rubles. It should be noted that spare cassettes are not included with the hood and must be purchased separately. On average, the service life is 100-130 operating hours. Thus, with standard use, these cassettes will last for 6-12 months. Correctly installed carbon filter for Krona hood helps to reduce the amount of noise generated slightly.

Among the Italian-made models, Jet Air filters are considered in demand, which, together with the company's energy-efficient and productive devices, form an ideal tandem. The most frequently purchased are the following model options:

Hansa charcoal filters are not considered universal, so it is better to check with a consultant for their compatibility with a particular hood

1. F00169 / 1S. Differs in original appearance, suitable for most circulating hoods. Sold in original packaging with all accompanying documents. Price - 560 rubles.
2. F00307. The filter is designed to work from 3 to 5 months and ensures efficient operation of the hood. The price of the model is from 660 rubles.

Another well-known Italian manufacturer of filters is the Hansa company, which provides cassettes of decent quality. It should be noted that filters for Hansa hoods are not considered universal, therefore, before buying, it is better to check with a consultant about their compatibility with a particular device. The high quality of the adsorbents used and the long service life without replacement explain the high cost of one filter - at the level of 1600 rubles.

What filters are offered by Elika, Elikor, Cata

Elikor hood filters are also available in 2 pieces. in packaging, they can be found in almost any retail outlet. They are characterized not only by high quality, but also by affordable cost. Carbon filters for Elikor range hoods are produced in Greece. According to customer reviews, cassettes should be replaced no more than once every six months, even if the hood is actively used. Among the advantages, one can also highlight the absence of fatty deposits on the facades adjacent to the cleaning device, which indicates good filtration. The average price of filters for Elikor hood is 700 rubles.

Carbon filters for Elikor range hoods are sold in 2 pieces. packaged

Elica exhaust filters help the appliance to cope well with polluted air in filtration mode. They are best combined with the company's circulation devices, because they are able to purify the air flow while working in the kitchen. The filters are recommended to be replaced every 3-4 months.The delivery set contains 2 cassettes, the price of packing is 790 rubles, which makes the filters available to a large number of consumers. Country of origin - Italy.

The Spanish company Cata began its existence 70 years ago and is engaged in the production of not only kitchen hoods, but also industrial ventilation systems. Cata hood filters are designed to work in devices of various capacities, the service life is 3-4 months from the date of installation. As a sorbent, only high-quality activated carbon is used, which allows you not to worry that the smell will spread throughout the apartment. Price - 600 rubles.

Installing a hood with a charcoal filter is able to establish a microclimate in the kitchen and protect the home from the spread of odors resulting from cooking. In addition, a recirculating hood with charcoal filters can remove fine dust particles and other harmful impurities from the air. High-quality air filtration prevents dirt from settling on the surfaces of furniture and other equipment.