Simple Extractor Fan Trick to Use It as a Budget Air Purifier

In many kitchens, the extractor fan is treated as nothing more than a way to deal with steam and smoke from the hob. However, there is a straightforward trick that helps it work a bit like a basic air purifier, cutting down on smells, airborne grease and smoke particles without major alterations or high costs.

How can you turn an extractor fan into a budget air purifier?

The idea is to place a disposable filter layer over the grille or over the appliance’s original metal filter. By taking advantage of the extractor fan’s suction, you force the air to pass through this added mat, which can trap finer grease residues and some of the smoke.

In practical terms, the extractor fan behaves like a simple air purifier: air is drawn in, pushed through the filter mat, and then returned to the room (or vented outside) with fewer impurities. In smaller kitchens or spaces with poor ventilation, this often feels like less lingering frying odour, reduced soot and a less stuffy atmosphere.

Watch the video on the YouTube channel Josenilson Facilita showing how to make a filter for a recirculating cooker hood and cooker hood. The content demonstrates, in a practical way, how to use mats and charcoal filters to capture grease and odours while cooking.

What materials and steps are needed to adapt the extractor fan?

To do this safely, you should use materials intended for kitchens or ventilation systems-items designed to cope with moderate heat and grease. Below is a basic step-by-step guide for fitting a filter mat without compromising the appliance’s performance.

• Disposable filter mat suitable for an extractor fan, cooker hood or air conditioner
• Scissors or a craft knife to cut the material to size
• Heat-resistant tape or suitable clips for securing it
• Simple gloves to avoid direct contact with built-up grease

1. Switch off the extractor fan at the plug or consumer unit before handling anything.
2. Remove the grille or metal filter, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Give the removed part a quick clean, taking off any visible grease.
4. Cut the filter mat to match the shape of the grille or the original filter.
5. Secure the disposable filter over the metal surface, keeping it taut.
6. Refit the grille or filter in the extractor fan and check it is firmly in place.
7. Turn the unit back on and test that airflow is normal and there are no unusual noises.

What precautions ensure safety and efficiency in everyday use?

This adaptation requires care so you do not restrict airflow too much or use flammable materials such as cloths, kitchen roll or sponges. The best approach is to choose mats made specifically for extractor fans, cooker hoods or ventilation systems, as these are built to tolerate heat and contact with grease without easily melting or catching fire.

Regular maintenance is also essential, because the disposable layer will eventually become saturated, collecting grease and dust and forcing the motor to work harder. In kitchens that are used heavily, it is worth checking the mat every two weeks and replacing it, on average, every 30 days; with moderate use, replacement typically falls between 45 and 60 days.

When does the extractor fan trick make the biggest difference to air quality?

The improvement is usually most noticeable in compact flat kitchens, in homes without large windows near the hob, and in open-plan spaces connected to the living room. In these situations, an adapted extractor fan can help limit strong cooking odours spreading to sofas, curtains and clothes, making the post-cooking period less bothersome.

Where it is not possible to install a powerful cooker hood or an external duct, this approach works as a simple ventilation boost, particularly during frying and grilling. Combined with some natural ventilation and routine cleaning of the blades, casing and air outlet, the trick helps reduce grease build-up on surfaces and keeps the air more pleasant day to day.