FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS(Q&A)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT HÄFELE RANGE HOODS

 

1. General FAQs

1.1 Is a range hood really necessary?
Absolutely. It helps remove smoke, cooking odors, grease, and moisture – keeping your kitchen air clean and protecting your health.

1.2 What types of range hoods are available?

Undercabinet: Compact, space-saving.

Wall-mounted (chimney): Stylish design, high performance.

Wall-attached: Installed close to the wall, easy to set up.

Island: Ideal for island kitchens, highly aesthetic.

1.3 How does a range hood work?
It includes a fan (motor), grease filters, and either a ducted exhaust system or recirculating charcoal filters. It works by extracting, filtering, and either expelling air outside or recirculating it.

1.4 When should I replace the charcoal filters?
On average, every 6–12 months depending on usage and model.

1.5 Does the hood completely eliminate cooking odors?
Up to 95–98% when installed and used correctly with the right power setting.

1.6 Is the range hood noisy?
Häfele’s modern hoods are designed to reduce noise (45–65 dB). Choosing the correct power level also helps reduce noise.

1.7 What suction capacity is sufficient?

Small to medium kitchens: 400–700 m³/h

Larger kitchens or heavy cooking: 900+ m³/h

1.8 Should I let the hood run after cooking?
Yes, run it for an additional 5–10 minutes to remove lingering odors.

1.9 Is it energy-efficient?
Yes. Average consumption is 80–150W/h, similar to a light bulb.

1.10 Can grease filters be washed?
Yes. Made from aluminum or stainless steel, they can be soaked and scrubbed every 2–4 weeks. Some are dishwasher-safe.

1.11 Can I use a range hood without a vent?
Yes, choose models with charcoal filters for recirculating air.

1.12 Is the range hood durable?
With regular cleaning and maintenance, lifespan can reach 8–10 years.

1.13 Should it be grounded?
Yes. For electrical safety, all appliances should be grounded.


2. Safety Guidelines

2.1 Installation Safety

Maintain 60–75 cm clearance above induction stoves, 70–80 cm above gas stoves.

Mount securely to avoid vibration and motor damage.

Don’t install in damp areas or near water sources.

2.2 During Operation

Don’t cook with excessive flames under the hood.

Avoid touching controls with wet hands.

Don’t block air vents or place objects near the intake.

Never hang cloths near the air intake.

2.3 Electrical Safety

Use a dedicated grounded outlet.

Avoid overstretching cords or placing near heat sources.

Turn off power before cleaning or maintenance.


3. Proper Usage

Turn on the hood 1–2 minutes before cooking to create airflow.

Choose appropriate power levels during cooking.

After cooking, run for 5–10 minutes or use the timer.

Use Booster Mode for frying or oily dishes.


4. Cleaning & Maintenance

4.1 Grease Filter (Aluminum/Stainless Steel)

Remove every 2–4 weeks.

Soak in warm water + dish soap.

Use soft brush to clean.

Dishwasher-safe if heat-resistant.

4.2 Charcoal Filters

Cannot be washed. Replace every 6–12 months.

4.3 Hood Body (Exterior)

Wipe with damp cloth and kitchen cleaner.

Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

4.4 Ventilation Duct

Inspect every 6 months.

Clean if greasy or blocked.


5. Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Issue / Description

Cause

Solution

Hood not working

Motor failure, clogged duct

Check power, clean duct

Loud noise

Loose screws, fan obstruction

Tighten screws, inspect fan

Light not working

LED bulb failure

Replace with correct LED bulb

Vibration during use

Improper installation

Adjust and stabilize installation

Lingering odors

Dirty filter or old charcoal

Clean filter, replace charcoal


6. Tips to Save Energy & Extend Lifespan

Always turn on early and off late for full odor removal.

Clean filters regularly to maintain performance.

Avoid high-power settings when unnecessary.

Use genuine charcoal filters for effective purification.


7. Installation Suggestions Based on Kitchen Type

Kitchen Type

Recommended Hood Type

Small (under 2m)

Undercabinet, 300–500 m³/h

Medium-sized

Wall-mounted (curved glass), 700 m³/h

Large/Open

Island hood, 900+ m³/h

Small restaurant

Industrial-grade, full stainless steel


8. Recommended Cleaning & Maintenance Schedule

Component

Frequency

Method

Grease filter

Every 2–4 weeks

Wash with warm water/soap

Exterior surface

Weekly

Wipe with soft dry cloth

Charcoal filter

6–12 months

Replace

Air duct

Every 6 months

Clean, check for grease buildup

Exhaust fan

Yearly

Disassemble and clean if needed


9. Modern Features on Häfele Range Hoods (if available)

Odor Sensor: Auto activation when smoke is detected.

Touch Control: Replaces physical buttons, easier to clean.

Digital/LED Panel: Sleek, accurate interface.

Auto Shut-off Timer: Turns off after set time.

Booster Mode: Powerful suction for short bursts.


OTHER QUESTIONS ABOUT RANGE HOODS

1. How does a range hood work?
It uses a ventilation fan and filters to pull in air containing odors, grease, and smoke from the kitchen. This air is either expelled outside or filtered and recirculated. Grease and grime are trapped in the filters, which must be cleaned monthly.

2. Is a range hood safe for children?
Yes. It’s usually installed high up, out of children''s reach. Plus, by cleaning the air, it contributes to a healthier environment and reduces respiratory risks.

3. What models and features are available from HÄFELE?
Häfele offers undercabinet, wall-mounted, island, and downdraft models. All have elegant designs and powerful suction. Aluminum filters are lightweight, removable, and easy to clean using common household ingredients like lemon, vinegar, baking soda, or even Coca-Cola. Charcoal filters are also included – perfect for apartments or small kitchens without external vents.