A greasy or worn rangehood filter might not seem like a major problem, but it can affect how well your rangehood deals with cooking grease, steam and odours. If the filter is damaged, heavily clogged or overdue for replacement, finding the right one can make a noticeable difference.
Choosing a new filter isn't always as simple as measuring the old one and ordering something that looks similar. Rangehoods can use aluminium grease filters, charcoal or carbon filters, and model-specific filter designs that may appear almost identical at first glance.
This guide explains the main types of rangehood filters, how to work out which filter your rangehood uses and what to check before ordering a replacement.
What Type of Rangehood Filter Do You Need?
The first step is understanding which type of filter you're replacing.
Depending on the rangehood and how it is installed, you may have an aluminium or metal grease filter, a charcoal or carbon filter, or a combination of both.
Aluminium and Metal Grease Filters
Aluminium mesh filters are commonly fitted underneath a rangehood, directly above the cooktop.
Their job is to catch airborne grease before it travels further into the rangehood. These filters often consist of several layers of aluminium mesh held inside a metal frame.
Many aluminium grease filters can be removed and cleaned rather than replaced every time they become dirty. Cleaning instructions vary between manufacturers, so check the instructions for your particular rangehood before putting a filter in the dishwasher or using cleaning products on it.
Replacement may be needed if the frame has become bent, the mesh is damaged, the locking tab has broken or the filter no longer sits securely in the rangehood.
Charcoal and Carbon Filters
A charcoal filter, also commonly called a carbon filter, has a different purpose.
These filters are normally associated with rangehoods operating in recirculation mode. Instead of sending the extracted air outside through ducting, a recirculating rangehood filters the air before returning it to the kitchen.
The charcoal or activated carbon helps deal with cooking odours as the air passes through the rangehood.
Unlike many aluminium grease filters, standard charcoal filters are usually consumable parts that need periodic replacement rather than ordinary washing and reuse. How often this is required depends on the rangehood, filter design and amount of cooking, so follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your appliance.
You can browse rangehood carbon and charcoal filters if this is the type used by your rangehood.
Does Your Rangehood Need a Charcoal Filter?
Not every rangehood needs a charcoal filter.
The important question is whether your rangehood is ducted outside or operating in recirculation mode.
A ducted rangehood draws cooking air through its grease filter and directs it outside through ducting. A recirculating rangehood sends the filtered air back into the room and may require additional charcoal or carbon filtration.
Some rangehood models can be installed either way, so identifying the model alone may not always tell you how yours has been configured.
If you're unsure, check the rangehood manual or inspect how the unit is installed. You may also be able to see a charcoal filter positioned behind the aluminium grease filter.
Don't automatically order a charcoal filter simply because one is available for your rangehood model. First confirm whether your particular installation uses it.
How to Find the Right Rangehood Filter Replacement
Once you know which type of filter you need, the next step is identifying the exact replacement.
Start with your rangehood brand and full model number.
Find the Rangehood Model Number
The model number is one of the most useful pieces of information when looking for rangehood spare parts.
Look for the rangehood's identification label or rating plate. Its exact location varies between brands and models, but it may be visible after removing the grease filter or looking inside the rangehood body.
Record the entire model number exactly as shown.
Taking a clear photo of the label is a good idea, especially when the number contains several letters, numbers or variations.
Small differences between two model numbers can matter when matching replacement filters.
Check the Original Filter
Remove the existing filter carefully and inspect it.
Look for a part number, manufacturer code or other identifying information printed, stamped or moulded into the filter or frame.
With an aluminium filter, pay attention to:
- Overall width and length
- Filter thickness
- Handle or release-tab position
- Shape of the frame
- Mounting points or locating tabs
- Any part number or code
For a charcoal filter, check the shape, mounting arrangement, diameter where relevant, number of filters required and any identifying number on the original part.
Keep the old filter until you've found the replacement. It can be useful for comparison even if it is damaged.
Why Measuring the Filter Isn't Always Enough
Measurements are useful, but they shouldn't be the only way you select a replacement rangehood filter.
Two filters might have very similar dimensions but use different locking tabs, handles, clips or mounting arrangements.
Even a difference of a few millimetres can matter if the filter needs to sit inside a particular frame or locking system.
This is particularly important when comparing filters from the same manufacturer. A brand may use several filter designs across different rangehood ranges and production versions.
When possible, compare the full appliance model number and listed compatibility information rather than selecting a filter only because its dimensions look right.
If model information isn't available, accurate measurements and clear photos of the filter and rangehood can provide additional information when trying to identify a replacement.
How Do You Know When a Rangehood Grease Filter Needs Attention?
A grease filter naturally becomes dirty as the rangehood is used.
If the filter is visibly coated in grease, airflow seems restricted or the mesh is heavily clogged, it may be time to remove it for cleaning according to the manufacturer's instructions.
While cleaning, inspect the filter for physical damage.
A replacement may be more appropriate if:
- The aluminium mesh is torn or badly damaged
- The outer frame is bent
- The filter doesn't remain securely in place
- The handle or release mechanism has broken
- Parts of the filter have separated
- The filter has been damaged during removal or cleaning
Don't continue using a filter that can't be fitted securely.
When Should a Charcoal Rangehood Filter Be Replaced?
Charcoal filters work differently from washable grease filters.
Over time, the filter material becomes saturated and becomes less effective at dealing with cooking odours. Because of this, charcoal filters generally require replacement at intervals rather than simply being cleaned indefinitely.
The correct replacement schedule varies between rangehoods and depends on how frequently you cook.
If you cook regularly, particularly foods that produce a lot of grease, smoke or strong odours, the filter may require attention more often than in a kitchen where the rangehood is only occasionally used.
Check the manufacturer's instructions for your particular rangehood and filter rather than relying on one replacement interval for every appliance.
If your rangehood is recirculating and cooking smells seem to remain in the kitchen more than they previously did, checking the condition and age of the charcoal filter is a sensible place to start.
How to Remove a Rangehood Filter for Inspection
Before removing a filter, turn the rangehood off and follow the safety and maintenance instructions provided for your appliance.
Many aluminium filters have a small handle, catch or release tab. Supporting the filter with one hand while releasing the catch can prevent it from dropping unexpectedly.
Once removed, place the filter on a protected surface and inspect both sides.
Charcoal filters may be positioned behind the visible grease filter and can use a different attachment system. Some twist or clip into position around the motor area, while others are rectangular panels or pads.
Don't force a filter if you're unsure how it releases. Check the appliance manual or the original fitting arrangement first.
Can You Clean a Rangehood Filter Instead of Replacing It?
It depends on the type of filter.
Many metal and aluminium grease filters are designed to be cleaned and reused. Depending on the manufacturer, cleaning may involve warm soapy water or a dishwasher.
However, not every filter should be treated in exactly the same way, so check the care instructions for your rangehood.
Standard disposable charcoal or carbon filters generally aren't treated the same way as washable aluminium grease filters. If the manufacturer describes the carbon filter as a replaceable consumable item, it should be replaced according to the appropriate maintenance schedule.
Knowing which type you have prevents you from replacing a reusable filter unnecessarily or trying to wash a filter that is intended to be replaced.
What Should You Check Before Ordering?
Before purchasing a replacement, compare as much information as possible.
Start with:
- The rangehood brand
- Full model number
- Filter type
- Part number, if available
- Filter dimensions
- Mounting or locking system
- Number of filters required
- Whether the rangehood is ducted or recirculating
Also check what is actually included with the replacement. Some charcoal filters may be supplied individually while others are sold as a pair or pack.
Don't assume that the quantity shown in a product photo is necessarily the quantity supplied. Check the product description before ordering.
Most importantly, don't choose a filter based on appearance alone. Similar-looking filters can still have different dimensions or fittings.
Where to Buy Replacement Rangehood Filters
Home Appliances Online stocks a wide range of replacement rangehood filters, including aluminium grease filters and charcoal or carbon filters for many common appliance brands.
The rangehood filter collection includes filters for brands such as Fisher & Paykel, Robinhood, Smeg, Bosch, Parmco, Westinghouse, Electrolux, Baumatic, Classique and others.
Start with the full model number of your rangehood and check the listed compatibility carefully. If you still have the original filter, its part number, dimensions and mounting arrangement can also help narrow down your options.
If the issue turns out to involve something other than the filter, you can also browse our wider range of rangehood spare parts, including replacement components for a range of rangehood models.
Taking a few extra minutes to identify the correct filter can save the frustration of ordering one that looks almost right but doesn't fit.
Browse the range of replacement rangehood filters at Home Appliances Online and find the right filter for your rangehood.