How do you clean a range hood filter?
Short answer: Turn off the hood and let it cool. Swish metal grease filters in hot, soapy water, rinse in clean water, and reinstall. GE manuals allow dishwasher cleaning of its metal filters and say to clean them monthly to every 6 months, depending on model. Charcoal filters cannot be washed. GE says to replace them about every 6 months.
What type of range hood filter do you have?
Most hoods use one of two filter types. Check your owner’s manual before you clean anything.
| Filter type | What it looks like | Washable? | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal grease filter (mesh or baffle) | Aluminum or steel mesh, or angled metal slats | Yes | Wash in hot soapy water, or dishwasher if your manual allows |
| Charcoal (carbon) filter | Dark pad or cartridge, used on recirculating (ductless) hoods | No | Replace it |
GE’s manuals state the charcoal filter “cannot be cleaned” and must not be rinsed or put in a dishwasher. It is only used when the hood recirculates air instead of venting outside.
How often should you clean a range hood filter?
Intervals vary by model, even within one brand.
| GE model (manual) | Metal grease filter | Charcoal filter |
|---|---|---|
| UVW8364 | Every month, or as needed | Replace every 6 months, or sooner if visibly dirty or discolored |
| PV977 | Every 6 months, or as needed | Replace when noticeably dirty or discolored |
Follow your own manual. As a rule of thumb, frequent frying or searing calls for the shorter interval.
How to clean a metal range hood filter by hand
- Turn off power and let it cool. GE says to switch off the circuit breaker and wait for surfaces to cool before cleaning or servicing the hood.
- Remove the filter. Most slide or unlatch from the underside of the hood.
- Wash in hot, soapy water. GE’s instruction is to swish the filter in hot soapy water. A grease-cutting dish soap is a common choice. Letting a heavily greased filter sit in the water for a while can help loosen buildup.
- Rinse in clean water.
- Let it drain and dry. Shake off water and let it drip dry before you put it back.
- Reinstall. Put the filter back before you use the hood again.
Do not use abrasive cleansers. GE warns against them. Skip steel wool and harsh scouring pads on mesh.
Some home guides suggest adding baking soda to the soak for stubborn grease. No manufacturer page we reviewed mentions it, so treat it as optional and test on a small area first.
Can you put a range hood filter in the dishwasher?
Only if your manual says so. Both GE manuals allow washing the metal filters in the dishwasher. They note some discoloration may occur. Neither says this harms the filter. Never put a charcoal filter in the dishwasher.
If your dishwasher drains slowly after greasy loads, see how to clean a dishwasher filter.
Safety notes
- Cut power at the breaker and let the hood cool before removing filters.
- Do not run the hood without its grease filter, which keeps grease out of the fan and ductwork.
- On recirculating hoods, use the replacement charcoal filter your manual lists.
- Never use water on a grease fire.
Quick answers
Can you wash a charcoal range hood filter? No. GE states charcoal filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced.
How often do you change a charcoal range hood filter? GE’s UVW8364 manual says every 6 months, or sooner if it looks dirty or discolored. Check your own model’s manual.
Why did my range hood filter discolor in the dishwasher? GE’s manuals say some discoloration may occur in the dishwasher. They do not treat it as damage.
What is the best soap for a greasy range hood filter? GE specifies hot soapy water and no abrasive cleansers. A grease-cutting dish soap is a reasonable choice.
Do I need to dry the filter before putting it back? Let it drain and drip dry first. That keeps water from dripping onto the cooktop.