Carbon Filters vs Grease Filters Explained
If you’re choosing or maintaining a cooker hood, understanding the difference between carbon filters and grease filters is essential. Both play a key role in keeping your kitchen air clean — but they perform very different jobs.
Whether you’re using a recirculating or ducted system, knowing how each filter works will help you improve performance, reduce odours, and extend the life of your appliance.
👉 Explore our full range of cooker hoods to find the right model for your kitchen.
What Is a Grease Filter?
A grease filter is the first line of defence in any cooker hood. It captures airborne grease, oil, and food particles released during cooking before they reach the motor or spread into your kitchen.
- Keeps internal components clean and protected
- Prevents sticky residue build-up on surfaces
- Improves overall extraction efficiency
Types of Grease Filters
- Aluminium mesh filters – reusable and easy to clean
- Stainless steel filters – durable and long-lasting
- Fleece filters – disposable and budget-friendly
What Is a Carbon Filter?
A carbon filter (or charcoal filter) removes odours and smells from the air. It uses activated carbon to absorb cooking fumes before the air is recirculated back into your kitchen.
- Neutralises cooking smells
- Ideal for kitchens without external venting
- Works alongside grease filters for full filtration
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Grease Filter | Carbon Filter |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Traps grease & particles | Removes odours & smells |
| Used in | All cooker hoods | Recirculating hoods only |
| Maintenance | Wash regularly | Replace periodically |
| Lifespan | Reusable (most types) | Typically 3–6 months |
Do You Need Both Filters?
In most cases, yes — especially for recirculating cooker hoods.
- Ducted systems: Only grease filters are required
- Recirculating systems: Both grease and carbon filters are needed
The grease filter captures particles, while the carbon filter removes smells — together they provide complete air filtration.
How Often Should You Replace or Clean Filters?
Grease Filters
- Clean every 2–4 weeks depending on usage
- Usually dishwasher-safe
Carbon Filters
- Replace every 3–6 months
- Not washable in most cases
Choosing the Right Setup
If your kitchen allows external venting, a ducted cooker hood with grease filters is usually the most efficient option. If venting isn’t possible, a recirculating hood with both filter types will still deliver strong performance.
👉 Browse our cooker hoods to find models suitable for both setups.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between carbon filters and grease filters helps you get the best performance from your cooker hood. Grease filters capture particles, while carbon filters remove odours — and together they keep your kitchen fresh and clean.
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