Paper Grease Filters for Older Extractor Hoods Explained

If your extractor is a few years old, there's a good chance it doesn't use the slot-in metal mesh you see on newer models. Instead, the removable panels often come in two halves with a thin paper gauze filter sandwiched in between. This guide covers cooker hood paper filter replacement on those older designs, how to spot when the filter is past its best, and where to get replacement material that you can cut to size.

How to tell which filter your extractor has

Most extractors and cooker hoods carry two or three filters, and they aren't all the same. Knowing what you're looking at makes maintenance much simpler.

• Metal gauze filters. These are the standard on most extractors and cooker hoods. You release them by pushing down on the sprung-loaded catch on either side, which frees the tabs and lets the filter drop out. Stainless steel mesh filters clean up extremely well in a dishwasher, so they're easy to look after. They don't need to go back in any particular order, as each one fits in a different position anyway.
• Carbon filter. Not every hood has one. Where fitted, it's usually on the motor section and comes away with a quarter turn before popping out. Carbon filters can't be cleaned or maintained. Once saturated, they have to be replaced, because a clogged carbon filter can cause problems for the motor itself.
• Paper gauze filters. The type found on many older extractor fans and cooker hoods. This is the one we're focusing on below.

Where the paper filter sits

On older extractors, the panel you take off to clean isn't a single piece. It's made in two halves, and the paper gauze filter is held between them. When you separate the two halves, the paper sheet is exposed and can be lifted straight out.

Because it's paper, it traps grease and cooking residue and gradually becomes saturated. Unlike a metal mesh, you can't wash it and put it back. Once it's loaded with grease, it needs swapping for a fresh piece.

Signs your paper filter needs replacing

The clearest clue is performance. If the extractor isn't clearing steam and cooking smells the way it used to, the filter is the first thing to check. A saturated paper filter restricts airflow, so the hood has to work harder and pulls less through.

When you open the two panel halves, a filter that's ready for replacement will look discoloured and greasy rather than clean and dry. If in doubt, change it. Paper filters are inexpensive and there's no benefit to nursing a tired one along.

Replacing a paper gauze filter step by step

1. Make sure the hood is switched off before you start handling the panels.
2. Remove the panel from the underside of the hood and separate the two halves to reveal the paper filter inside.
3. Lift out the old, saturated filter and dispose of it.
4. Fit the new paper gauze filter in its place, then clip the two panel halves back together.
5. Refit the panel to the hood.

That's the whole job. It's one of the easier bits of appliance maintenance you'll do, and it makes an immediate difference to how well an older hood draws.

Buying replacement paper filters and cutting to size

You don't need to track down a part that matches your exact model. Paper gauze filter material is sold in large sheets, and you simply cut it to the size you need to fit between the panel halves. Measure the old filter (or the recess it sits in), mark the sheet and trim it with scissors. One sheet usually gives you several replacements, which keeps the running cost low on a vintage or budget extractor.

While you have the hood apart

If your hood has integrated lighting, replacing a paper filter is a sensible moment to deal with any failed bulbs too. The method is the same as changing a bulb in a fridge or a cooker, so our guides on how to change a fridge light bulb and how to change an oven light bulb will walk you through it.

When to call in an engineer

A fresh paper filter solves most poor-performance complaints on older hoods. If you've replaced the filter and the extractor still isn't shifting steam properly, the problem may lie with the motor or the wiring rather than the filter. That's where it's worth having someone take a proper look.

NAC engineers are trained across all makes and appliance types, and we can repair any brand of cooker hood or extractor. We quote a service charge before an engineer attends, which covers all labour, callout and VAT where applicable. The only extra would be for any parts needed, and we always quote those separately and get your go-ahead before doing the work. Repairs are backed by a guarantee, with the length depending on the parts fitted and covered under our terms and conditions.

To book, use the Book A Repair button on the website or call us on 0333 016 9622. You can also reach us through our contact page, and it's worth checking our service areas to confirm we cover you. For more practical fixes around the home, browse our help and repair guides.