Why does condensation sometimes occur while cooking?
Condensation during cooking occurs when warm, moist air from your pots comes into contact with cooler surfaces, such as the kitchen backsplash or the extractor hood itself. This is a natural phenomenon and cannot always be completely avoided.
How Can I Reduce Condensation?
Here are some simple steps to minimize condensation:
1. Turn on the extractor hood in time and use the post-ventilation function
Switch on the hood before you start cooking to ensure a constant airflow that immediately removes moist air. After cooking, it’s recommended to let the hood run for an additional 10 minutes. Novy extractor hoods come with a built-in post-ventilation function.
2. Use the appropriate power setting
Adjust the hood’s suction power to match the intensity of your cooking. For heavy cooking vapors (e.g., when boiling pasta or stir-frying), a higher setting is required.
3. Use lids on your pots
Cooking with lids limits the amount of steam released into the air. Whenever possible, position your pot with its lid directly under the center of the extractor hood.
4. Cook at lower temperatures
Cooking at high temperatures generates more steam and increases the likelihood of condensation. Start with high heat to quickly reach boiling point, then reduce the temperature to maintain it. This not only reduces the amount of steam but is also a more energy-efficient way to cook.
5. Use the right cooking zone for high-vapor dishes
Place pots that produce a lot of steam on the front cooking zones. This helps prevent condensation on the backsplash, as the steam is extracted more quickly by the hood.
6. Keep the kitchen well-ventilated
Ensure a supply of fresh air by opening a window or using ventilation grilles or a system, especially if you’re using a recirculating extractor hood. A hood operates more effectively in a space with adequate airflow.
My extractor hood works well, but I still experience condensation. What should I do?
Even with a perfectly functioning extractor hood, condensation cannot be entirely avoided due to temperature and humidity differences in the kitchen. If you notice excessive condensation, check:
- whether the hood’s grease filter is clean.
- whether airflow is blocked, for example, by a clogged or narrow duct.
- whether the maximum distance between the hood and the worktop has been exceeded.
If you’re unsure about the installation or operation of your extractor hood, contact our after-sales service. We’ll work with you to find a solution and determine whether an inspection is necessary.
With these tips, you can enjoy a better-ventilated kitchen and a more pleasant cooking experience!