Range Hood Parts & Accessories

Range Hood Accessories: What You Should Know

Before we get into the nitty gritty of range hood parts and accessories, let's review the basics of ranges themselves. Establishing a base understanding of the equipment will help you decide what additional parts you may want to invest in.

The range is one of the most basic and versatile units you can have in your foodservice operation. Specialized equipment is available for energy efficiency and optimal labor, but ranges are generally simple equipment with low space requirements and flexible usage. While they can be found in almost all restaurant configurations, they're most popular in fine dining kitchens run by chefs, establishments with diverse menu options, and small institutional kitchens such as clubs and church halls.

Ranges are often used for pan-frying, braising, boiling, simmering, or stockpot cooking. However, incorporating broilers, ovens, hot tops, and grills enables cooks to perform almost every primary cooking function. Ranges are broken down into four main categories: heavy-duty/modular ranges, medium-duty ranges, specialty ranges, and induction ranges. Depending on the manufacturer, heavy-duty/modular ranges normally measure from 32 to 36 inches wide. Medium-duty ranges are usually less expensive than heavy-duty models and function as stand-alone units. Specialty ranges include stockpot stoves and woks, while induction ranges heat up with a powerful, high-frequency electromagnet. Now that we've established range basics, we'll discuss accessory options that can enhance your experience and lengthen the equipment's lifetime.

Common Questions About Range Hood Parts

What vent hood parts are available for my range?

When it comes to ranges, there are many accessory options to choose from, but the main choice is between filter types: charcoal or grease. Light fixtures are another range feature to keep in mind, but they are constructed for part replacement rather than a necessary addition that is sold separately.

How do charcoal filters work?

Activated carbon charcoal filters, or charcoal filters, absorb and trap chemicals, particles, and debris from dirty air and water. Whether your filter is wet or dry, it is not constructed for reusability or long-term use, so you should replace the filter when all pores in the charcoal completely absorb pollutants.

How do I clean my charcoal filter?

There are two kinds of charcoal filter: dry and wet. To clean a dry charcoal filter, clean the filter housing and remove the accumulated debris from the filter's surface because it can block water or air from flowing throughout. Then, slide a crevice tool attachment onto your vacuum's hose. Using a horizontal motion, remove the debris, starting from the top and working your way down. Repeat this on the other side. If your filter housing has an intake or exhaust vent, wipe the surfaces with a lint-free, damp microfiber cloth. Then dry thoroughly with a different cloth and end by vacuuming the housing. As with dry filters, cleaning a wet filter begins by removing the charcoal from its housing. Place the filter in aquarium water or cool, distilled water. Soak the filter for five minutes, then swish it around for a few more minutes to dislodge excess debris. Pour out the dirty water and run aquarium water or fresh distilled water over the filter for several seconds before returning your filter to its housing.