How to Turn an Extractor Hood into an Affordable Air Purifier

In many kitchens, the extractor hood is regarded only as a way to deal with smoke from the hob. Yet a straightforward trick can make it work much like a basic air purifier, helping to cut down odours, airborne grease and smoke particles without major alterations or high costs.

How can you turn an extractor hood into an affordable air purifier?

The method involves fitting a disposable filter layer over the grille or the appliance's existing metal filter. This uses the extractor hood's suction flow, forcing air through the additional sheet, which traps more fine grease residue and some of the smoke.

In effect, the extractor hood becomes a simple air purifier: air is drawn in, passes through the filter sheet, and is returned to the room - or vented outdoors - with fewer impurities. In small or poorly ventilated kitchens, this generally means less frying odour, less soot and a less stuffy atmosphere.

Watch the video on the Josenilson Facilita YouTube channel explaining how to make a filter for a recirculating cooker hood and extractor hood. It gives a practical demonstration of using filter sheets and carbon filters to capture grease and odours while cooking.

What materials and steps are needed to adapt an extractor hood?

To use this method safely, choose materials intended for kitchens or ventilation, designed to cope with moderate heat and grease. Below is a basic guide to fitting the filter sheet without affecting how the appliance operates.

• Disposable filter sheet designed for an extractor fan, cooker hood or air conditioner;
• Scissors or a craft knife to cut the material to the right size;
• Heat-resistant adhesive tape or suitable fixing clips;
• Simple gloves to avoid direct contact with built-up grease.

1. Disconnect the extractor hood from the mains or switch off its circuit breaker before handling it.
2. Remove the grille or metal filter in line with the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Give the removed component a basic clean, removing visible grease.
4. Cut the filter sheet to match the shape of the grille or original filter.
5. Secure the disposable filter across the metal surface, keeping it taut.
6. Refit the grille or filter in the extractor hood, checking that it is secure.
7. Switch on the appliance and check that the airflow is sufficient and there are no unusual noises.

What precautions ensure safety and efficiency in daily use?

This adaptation needs care to avoid excessively restricting the air outlet or using flammable materials such as cloths, kitchen roll or sponges. It is best to select sheets made for extractor fans, cooker hoods or ventilation systems, as they can withstand heat and contact with grease without easily melting or catching fire.

Regular maintenance is another essential point: the disposable filter becomes saturated over time, collecting grease and dust and causing the motor to work harder. In frequently used kitchens, check the sheet every two weeks and replace it, on average, every 30 days. With moderate use, replacement will usually be needed every 45 to 60 days.

When does the extractor hood trick make the greatest difference to air quality?

The effect is usually more noticeable in compact flat kitchens, homes without large windows near the hob, and open-plan spaces connected to the living room. In these situations, an adapted extractor hood can limit the spread of strong smells to sofas, curtains and clothing, making the aftermath of cooking less unpleasant.

Where it is not possible to install a powerful cooker hood or external ducting, this solution provides a simple ventilation boost, particularly when frying or grilling. When combined with some natural ventilation and regular cleaning of the blades, housing and air outlet, the trick can result in less grease on surfaces and more pleasant day-to-day air.