Cooking in most cases produces smoke, heat, grease, and different qualities of odor, and thus, it is wise to install an exhaust fan in your kitchen. In a country such as Singapore where humidity is an especially significant problem, a kitchen exhaust fan is even more essential.
The following procedure helps you in how to correctly install the kitchen exhaust fan and maintain its efficiency and safety. Also, LS Electrician Services Singapore provides services like lighting installation, power socket installation, and house rewiring services.
Why Professional Install an Exhaust Fan In Kitchen?
Before we dive into the installation process, it’s essential to understand the benefits:
- Improved Air Quality: Forces smoke, steam, and cooking odours out of the house.
- Reduced Humidity: Moisture control which is very important in preventing mold and mildew formation.
- Heat Reduction: Cools the kitchen when preparing food.
- Grease Control: Reduces tendency of grease formation on the walls and other surfaces.
- Compliance with HDB and Condo Regulations: Enhances flow of fresh air, which is desirable in most Singaporean homes, especially according to the architectural codes.
Tools and Materials Needed to Install an Exhaust Fan
Before starting, gather these essential tools and materials:
- Exhaust fan (depending with the size of your kitchen)
- Power drill
- Screwdrivers
- Measuring tape
- Stud finder
- Level
- Ductless or ducted fan cutting tools for walls or windows
- Screws and mounting brackets
- Ductwork (if applicable)
- Electric cables and contacts
- Safety gear such as gloves, goggles and dust mask
Kitchen’s Exhaust Fan Installation Step-by-Step Guide
1. Plan the Installation
Before purchasing and installing an exhaust fan, consider these factors:
Fan Type:
- Ducted Fans: Take fresh air directly from outside through a duct. Ideal for heavy-duty cooking.
- Ductless Fans: Exhaust and replace air within the kitchen area. Perfect for small kitchens as well as houses that cannot accommodate duct work.
- Placement: Over the cooking top or stove if it is to work efficiently and produce the best results.
- Power Requirements: Make sure that the fan you choose has the right power requirements to suit the electrical wiring of your kitchen.
2. Select the Right Exhaust Fan
Choose an exhaust fan that meets your needs:
- CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): Indicates the fan’s power. For bigger kitchens, a higher rate of CFM will be needed for efficient air changes within the kitchen area.
- Noise Level: To reduce the noise level of the washing machine, choose models with a lower decibel rating.
- Energy Efficiency: Choose a model with an energy saving ability.
3. Prepare the Installation Site
- Turn Off Electricity: It is safer to switch off power by use of the circuit breaker to minimize electrical fatalities.
- Mark the Spot: With a pencil, sketch where the fan is to be positioned in order to clearly distinguish the proposed layout.
- Locate Studs: To prevent making holes in the support beam, use the stud finder.
- Create the Opening: Depending on the type of fan, make an opening on the wall or ceiling or window. Make sure the opening is as big as your fan as is depicted below.
4. Install the Mounting Bracket
- To install this, you have to firmly bolt the mounting bracket on the wall, ceiling or window frame.
- Make sure the bracket is flat so as to avoid legs of the fan to work at a different level.
5. Install the Exhaust Fan
- Place the exhaust fan on the mounting bracket.
- Fasten the fan with screws and ensure that it is a tight fit.
- Ducted fans do the same and secure the duct at the outlet of the fan by using clamps or tapes.
6. Connect Electrical Wiring
- Connect the fan’s wiring to your home electrical wiring (black wire to black wire, white wire to white wire and the green wire screw to the green wire).
- Twist the wires to complete their connection and then use wire connectors to tighten the connections.
- Gently fold it and place each wire in a chosen pit of the fan’s housing.
7. Test the Fan
- Switch it off at the circuit breaker then switch it back on.
- Check the performance of the fan by turning on the switch that is fitted on it. Make sure that it runs very silently with no horrible sound.
8. Seal and Finish
- For ducted fans it is necessary to seal all cracks and gaps in the ducts with the help of the specialized Sealant.
- It is necessary to replace any wall or ceiling, part that was removed during the process.
- To perform this activity, ensure all equipment used is properly washed and all the equipment kept in a proper place.
Guidelines for Installation
- Check Housing Regulations: Take extra care to follow the ventilation rules set forth by the HDB or condo management.
- Hire a Professional: If you are in any doubt regarding electrical or structural work then employ a licensed technician.
- Regular Maintenance: Cleaning of the fan and the filters should be done regularly to ensure that they are working well.
- Energy Efficiency: It is also advisable to correct the use of lighting by introducing a timer or a motion sensor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Improper Sizing: Selecting a casual fan with low CFM may result in inefficient circulation.
- Inadequate Sealing: Unsealing gaps affect the efficiency of the fan.
- Skipping Maintenance: Lack of proper cleansing hinders the prevention of grease deposits, therefore affecting efficiency.
- Overlooking Electrical Safety: It is advisable to switch off the power supply to a specific area before installing the units.
When to Call a Professional
In Singapore, professional installation services have to adhere to local laws and codes, and requirements of electrical safety. You should call a professional if:
- You do not have the tools or experience.
- It has a complicated ducting requirement.
- You are doubtful about electrical wire things.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your kitchen exhaust fan in top condition:
- Clean Filters: Clean out filters in fans and air conditioners, or replace them altogether every 3-6 months.
- Wipe Fan Blades: Deep clean furniture from grease and other dust that may have accumulated over some time.
- Inspect Ductwork: Look for areas of the drainpipe that may be blocked or damaged within one year.
- Test Performance: Check whether the fan is running at the right speed and if it is efficient in its operation.
Conclusion
Installing an exhaust fan in your kitchen in Singapore is a manageable DIY project if you follow these steps and prioritize safety. With the right tools, planning, and periodic maintenance, your exhaust fan will keep your kitchen fresh and comfortable for years to come. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult a professional to ensure a flawless installation.