Replace Your Outdated Kitchen Exhaust Fan

Is your kitchen exhaust fan loud, greasy, and just plain past its prime? Upgrading to a new model can transform your cooking experience and keep your kitchen cleaner and more comfortable.

First, we'll look at the signs indicating it's time for an upgrade. Then, we'll explore how to select the perfect new fan for your needs. From ducted to ductless, under-cabinet to ceiling-mounted, we've got you covered. Next up: a step-by-step installation guide to make the switch seamless. We'll close with maintenance tips to keep your new exhaust fan running optimally for years to come.

When Is It Time to Replace Your Kitchen Exhaust Fan?

Kitchen exhaust fans take a beating. Smoke, grease, and moisture buildup can take a toll over time. Here are some telltale signs it may be time to replace your old kitchen exhaust fan:

• Excess Noise: If your fan squeaks, rattles, or roars, upgrading can restore peace and quiet.
• Lackluster Ventilation: An underpowered fan leads to lingering odors and humidity. A new model circulates air better.
• Frequent Clogs: Grease accumulation impedes airflow. A new fan with washable filters alleviates clogs.
• Age: Most exhaust fans last 10-15 years. Beyond this, replacing is safer and more efficient.
• Missing or Damaged Parts: Broken blades or housing will only worsen. Replacement avoids further deterioration.
• Remodel Motivation: Upgrading fans during kitchen renovations pairs well for a coordinated look.

A good rule of thumb is to replace exhaust fans older than 15 years. Advances in technology make new models much more powerful and energy efficient. However, even younger fans showing signs of wear merit replacement. Acting quickly curtails further damage.

Prioritize a New Exhaust Fan for Energy Efficiency

New kitchen exhaust fans boasting DC motors use significantly less energy than outdated AC models. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, you can save $35 annually by upgrading fans older than 10 years. Over the 15 year lifespan of a new fan, that's a total savings of $525.

New ENERGY STAR certified fans are up to 60% more efficient than conventional models. Replacing an exhaust fan is an easy project producing major energy savings over time.

How to Choose the Best Exhaust Fan for Your Kitchen

You rely on your kitchen exhaust fan daily to clear smoke, grease, odors, and humidity. Carefully selecting a replacement ensures it tackles everything your kitchen throws at it. Keep the following factors in mind when choosing a new exhaust fan:

CFM Ratings

CFM stands for cubic feet per minute, defining airflow. Look for a CFM rating at least as high as your existing fan. Bigger kitchens and commercial-grade appliances require more powerful fans with CFMs of 1,000 or higher. Standard home kitchens usually require 100-400 CFM.

Sones Ratings

Sones measure noise levels. Look for the lowest sone rating you can find. .3 - .7 sones is ideal, up to 2 sones is tolerable. Anything above 4 sones is quite noisy.

Ducted vs. Ductless

Ducted fans route air outside via ventilation shafts. They're more powerful but require professional installation. Ductless fans recirculate kitchen air through filters. They install easily but can't match ducted CFM capacities.

Mounting Styles

Under-cabinet fans mount to the bottom of cabinets, ideal for targeted ventilation. Downdraft fans reside beside cooktops. Island canopy hoods suspend over stoves. Chimneys mount to walls. Choose the style best fitting your kitchen layout.

Special Features

Consider extra perks like lights, remote controls, moisture sensors, timers, and filter change reminders. Smart app connectivity is on the rise for controlling fans from phones.

How to Install a New Kitchen Exhaust Fan

Once you've selected the ideal exhaust fan for your kitchen, it's time to get down to business. Here is a step-by-step guide to smoothly replacing your old kitchen exhaust fan:

1. Turn off power at the breaker. Use a voltage tester to be sure.
2. Remove the existing fan carefully following the manufacturer instructions.
3. Thoroughly clean the existing ductwork, sealing leaks with metal tape.
4. Attach any additional ductwork segments needed to reach the new fan location.
5. Securely mount the new fan according to the accompanying hardware.
6. Connect the wiring to the wires protruding from the electrical box.
7. Install new filters if applicable.
8. Turn the power back on and test the new fan is operating and venting air properly.
9. Weatherproof housing duct penetrations to seal out moisture.

Always turn off power at the breaker before connecting any wiring. Complex ductwork extensions may require professional help. But minor modifications are doable for most DIYers with basic skills.

What to Watch Out For

Focus on potential trouble spots as you replace your kitchen exhaust fan:

• Use metal duct tape for all ductwork connections. Secure joints tightly.
• Match wiring colors when making connections.
• Check your new fan's CFM rating does not exceed the ductwork capacity.
• Weatherstrip all exterior ducting penetrations thoroughly.
• Ensure dampers open properly to provide needed airflow.
• Mount the fan securely to avoid vibrations and noise.

Taking care at these common issues makes for smooth installation. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for additional specifications unique to your new model.

Maintaining Your Replacement Kitchen Exhaust Fan

Your kitchen exhaust fan works hard every day. Regular upkeep optimizes its performance and lifespan. Follow these maintenance tips:

Change Filters Regularly

Clogged filters reduce airflow. Stick to the manufacturer's recommended interval, generally every 3-6 months.

Clean Fan Blades

Use a degreaser and small brush to remove accumulated grime above and below the blades.

Check Wiring Condition

Loose connections can be fire hazards. Inspect wires every year or two for fraying or corrosion.

Clear Clogs

Built-up grease also blocks ductwork. Professionally cleaning ducts maximizes venting.

Seal Any Leaks

Prevent moist air escaping into crevices. Apply weatherstripping and metal tape as needed.

Adhering to the manufacturer's care guidelines keeps your new exhaust fan functioning properly. Establishing a periodic maintenance routine also prevents avoidable repairs down the road.

Greasy, noisy kitchen exhaust fans do more than just disturb the peace. Poor ventilation exacerbates indoor air pollution and humidity permitting mold growth. Replacing old kitchen exhaust fans provides cleaner, healthier indoor air.

Advances in efficiency also make upgrades financially prudent. The project doesn't have to break the bank. Even entry-level new fans significantly outperform older models.

This guide covers everything from choosing CFM ratings to DIY installation steps. A few tools and a free weekend empower you to handle the project yourself. Or, hire a handyman for assistance completing more complex ductwork modifications.

No matter your approach, a new kitchen exhaust fan is one of the highest ROI upgrades you can make. The improvements to airflow, ventilation, grease capture, and noise reduction enhance the ambiance of your entire kitchen.