Cooking is a daily ritual for many of us, and it's often a time to unwind and indulge in the creation of delicious meals. However, there's an aspect of cooking that's frequently overlooked, yet it's crucial for both your health and the longevity of your kitchen: the use of the exhaust fan. While the hum of a kitchen fan might be the last thing you want to hear after a long day, experts are now shedding light on why this common kitchen appliance is more than just a tool to keep your space smoke-free.

The Importance of Kitchen Exhaust Fans


When you're sautéing vegetables or searing a steak, you're not just cooking up a storm; you're also releasing a variety of emissions into the air. These can include steam, odours, smoke, grease, and other potential pollutants. According to Lidia Morawska, director of the International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health at Queensland University of Technology, cooking, especially high-temperature frying, can lead to higher emissions that may have serious health effects over time. 'We are talking about respiratory system, cardiovascular system, systemic problems,' she says. 'Basically, every system in our body is affected.'


The role of the kitchen exhaust fan is to capture and filter out these emissions, significantly reducing your exposure to harmful particles. Even if it doesn't remove all the dangerous particles, any functioning kitchen fan will make a considerable difference.


Alternatives to Kitchen Exhaust Fans

For those without a range hood or exhaust fan, Professor Morawska suggests increasing ventilation by any means possible, such as opening windows or doors. Portable air purifiers are another option, though they can be expensive and only address part of the problem, as they don't remove gaseous products released during cooking.

The Electric vs Gas Debate


Another factor to consider is whether you're using an electric or gas stove. Electric stoves are generally safer from a health standpoint, as they don't emit harmful pollutants, unlike gas stoves, which also release gas combustion products. According to Asthma Australia, gas cooktops, which are prevalent in Australian homes, have been linked to asthma flare-ups and the development of asthma in children.

Efficiency of Different Rangehoods

Kitchen rangehoods come in various styles, including wall canopies, undermount models, fixed rangehoods, retractable rangehoods, and downdraft vents. However, not all are created equal in terms of efficiency. Testing by Australian consumer group Choice found that wall canopies and fixed rangehoods are the most efficient, as they cover a larger area over the cooktop.

Ducted vs Recirculation Hoods


The distinction between ducted rangehoods, which vent air outside, and recirculation hoods, which filter and return air to the room, is significant. Ducted rangehoods are generally the preferred option, as they effectively remove pollutants from the kitchen.

Maintenance of Rangehood Filters

To ensure your rangehood continues to function effectively, regular maintenance is necessary. Aluminium mesh filters can be cleaned at home, while other types of filters may need to be replaced. Recirculation rangehoods require carbon filters, which should be replaced every three to six months, depending on usage and the type of cooking.


In conclusion, while the noise of an exhaust fan might be a minor inconvenience, the benefits it provides are substantial. Not only does it protect your health by reducing exposure to harmful pollutants, but it also helps maintain a clean and pleasant kitchen environment. So next time you fire up the stove, remember to turn on that fan – it's a simple step that could have a significant impact on your wellbeing.
We'd love to hear from our readers at the Seniors Discount Club. Do you always remember to turn on your exhaust fan when cooking? Have you noticed a difference in your kitchen's air quality when you do? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!