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When it comes to kitchen ventilation, there are two main options: ducted and recirculating range hoods.
Ducted range hoods, also known as vented or exhaust hoods, operate by expelling air outside the home through a duct system. This process effectively removes cooking byproducts, such as odors and smoke, by directing them outdoors.
In contrast, recirculating range hoods don't require an external duct system. Instead, they use charcoal filters to capture and neutralize odors and contaminants before recirculating the purified air back into the kitchen.
Recirculating range hoods are popular solutions in situations where adding ductwork is not possible or desired and often provide a budget-friendly alternative. ZLINE manufactures over 50 recirculating range hoods that do not require a pre-installed ducting system.
If you use a ZLINE recirculating range hood to ventilate your kitchen, the charcoal filters should be replaced every 4-9 months, depending on use, in order to keep your kitchen air as fresh as possible. Taking a few moments to replace these filters can make a world of difference in preserving the air quality in your kitchen.
In this guide, we'll take you through the simple yet crucial process of installing these charcoal filters. First, we'll cover the CF1, which is compatible with ZLINE's CF1-compatible range hoods.
Second, we'll cover how to install the CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filters in select ZLINE Professional Recirculating Range Hoods.
Click below to jump to the CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filter installation.
Jump to CF1-587/597/9597 Steps
How to install/replace the CF1 charcoal filters on ZLINE Range Hoods
ZLINE has provided this helpful video walking through the process of changing the CF1 filter on CF1-compatible range hoods. ZLINE recirculating range hoods require a CF1 charcoal filter for each side of the internal blower/motor.
ZLINE 1 Set of 2 Charcoal Filters for Range Hoods with Recirculating Option (CF1)
$59.99
Charcoal Filters - Ductless Kits The CF1 filter is compatible with all range hoods found in the CF1 Convertible Range Hoods Collection. THE FOLLOWING MODELS AND SERIES ARE NOT COMPATIBLE: 587 597 9597 Alpine Series Under Cabinets Dual Motor Range Hoods… Read More
Steps for changing the CF1 filters:
Step 1.
Unplug and disconnect the range hood from all electrical sources.
Step 2.
Remove the metal range hood baffle filters so that the internal blower/motor is visible. The internal blower or motor is usually located directly behind the baffle filters, mounted inside the central plenum of the hood. Once the filters come off, you’ll usually see an open cavity where the blower housing sits, either as a single centered motor assembly or as two smaller blowers positioned on each side, depending on the hood’s design. The blower is also highlighted in red in the images below.
Step 3.
A charcoal filter for a range hood has two small pins that help it lock into place, one at the top and one at the bottom. Locate the top and bottom pins on the CF1 charcoal filter. The pin is also circled in red in the image below.
Step 4.
Locate the set screws on the blower; there will be one on the top and one on the bottom. Align the top and bottom pins on the CF1 charcoal filter with the corresponding set screws on one side of the internal blower/motor. The set screws are also circled in red in the image below.
Step 5.
Rotate the CF1 charcoal filter counterclockwise so that the top and bottom pins slide underneath the set screws and lock into place. The CF1 charcoal filter should fit firmly in place.
Step 6.
Repeat steps 3-5 on the other side of the internal blower/motor.
Step 7.
With a CF1 filter securely installed on both sides of the internal blower/motor, replace the metal baffle filters on your range hood.
Step 8.
Reconnect your recirculating range hood to power and test to ensure the air is circulating correctly through the filter, blower, and vents.
How to install/replace the CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filter on ZLINE 587, 597, and 9597 Range Hoods
If your ZLINE Range Hood is a professional 500 CFM hood with model numbers 587, 597, or 9597, you will need the CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filter. The standard CF1 filter is not compatible with these models and will not work.
ZLINE Charcoal Replacement Filters for Models 587, 597, and 9597 (Set of 2) (CF1-587/597/9597)
$59.99
Charcoal Filters 587, 597, and 9597 - Ductless Kits Compatible with THE FOLLOWING MODELS: 587 597 9597 Need help installing? You can read our detailed installation guide for the CF1-587/597/9597 filter here. Charcoal filters are used for converting your range hood to… Read More
Steps for changing the CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filters:
Step 1.
Unplug and disconnect the range hood from all electrical sources.
Step 2.
Remove the metal range hood baffle filters so that the internal 500 CFM motor is visible.
Step 3.
A CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filter for a range hood has one small tab that helps it lock into place at the top. Locate the tab on the top of the CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filter.
Step 4.
The tab slot on the motor is located next to the fan exhaust. Locate the tab slot on the 500 CFM motor.
Step 5.
Slide the tab into the tab slot so that it firmly locks in place. When the tab is properly inserted, the filter will sit flush against the motor.
Step 6.
Locate the pins on the opposite side of the CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filter.
Step 7.
Locate the pin catch on the opposite side of the 500 CFM motor.
Step 8.
Align the pins with the pin catch and rotate the filter counter-clockwise so that the pins slide into the pin catch and lock in place.
Step 9.
Once locked in place, the charcoal filter pins and pin catch will be firmly secured.
Step 10.
Repeat steps 3-9 on the other side of the 500 CFM motor.
Step 11.
With a CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filter securely installed on both sides of the 500 CFM motor, replace the metal baffle filters on your range hood.
Step 12.
Reconnect your recirculating range hood to power and test to ensure the air is circulating correctly through the filter, blower, and vents.
Conclusion
ZLINE's recirculating range hood technology ensures that no kitchen is left behind when it comes to proper kitchen ventilation. We hope this guide has been helpful, and thank you for reading. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us. We are here to help!
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FAQs
What is a recirculating range hood?
A recirculating range hood cleans kitchen air by pulling it through charcoal filters that trap odors and contaminants before releasing the filtered air back into the kitchen. Unlike ducted hoods, it does not vent air outside and does not require ductwork.
When should I use a recirculating range hood instead of a ducted hood?
Recirculating range hoods are ideal when exterior ducting is not possible, such as in apartments, condos, interior kitchens, or remodels where adding ductwork would be costly or impractical.
Why are charcoal filters necessary for recirculating range hoods?
Charcoal filters neutralize odors, smoke, and airborne contaminants that cannot be vented outdoors. Without charcoal filters, a recirculating hood cannot properly clean the air.
How often should ZLINE charcoal filters be replaced?
ZLINE charcoal filters should typically be replaced every 4 to 9 months, depending on how often you cook and the type of cooking you do. Frequent frying or high-heat cooking may require more frequent replacement.
Can ZLINE charcoal filters be cleaned instead of replaced?
No. Charcoal filters cannot be washed or reused. Once saturated, they must be replaced to maintain proper airflow and odor removal.
How do I know which charcoal filter my ZLINE range hood needs?
Most ZLINE recirculating range hoods use the CF1 charcoal filter. However, ZLINE Professional models with model numbers 587, 597, and 9597 require the CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filter. The standard CF1 filter is not compatible with those models.
How many charcoal filters does my ZLINE range hood require?
ZLINE recirculating range hoods require one charcoal filter per side of the internal blower or motor. Most models require two filters total.
Do I need tools to install ZLINE charcoal filters?
No specialized tools are required. Installation typically involves removing the baffle filters and twisting or locking the charcoal filters into place by hand.
Is it necessary to unplug the range hood before installing charcoal filters?
Yes. The hood should always be unplugged or disconnected from power before removing filters or accessing the internal blower to ensure safety.
Where are the charcoal filters installed inside the hood?
Charcoal filters install directly onto the internal blower or motor, behind the metal baffle filters. The exact mounting method depends on whether you are using CF1 or CF1-587/597/9597 filters.
What is the difference between CF1 and CF1-587/597/9597 charcoal filters?
CF1 filters attach using top and bottom pins that lock under set screws on the blower. CF1-587/597/9597 filters use a tab-and-pin system designed specifically for ZLINE’s 500 CFM professional motors.
How can I tell if my charcoal filters are no longer working?
Common signs include lingering cooking odors, reduced airflow, and a range hood that seems louder or less effective than usual. These are indicators that the filters are saturated and need replacement.
Will replacing charcoal filters improve airflow and performance?
Yes. New charcoal filters restore proper airflow, improve odor control, and help the blower operate more efficiently, extending the life of the range hood.
Are charcoal filters required for ducted ZLINE range hoods?
No. Charcoal filters are only required for recirculating installations. Ducted range hoods vent air outside and do not use charcoal filters.
Can I convert my ZLINE ducted range hood to recirculating?
Many ZLINE range hoods are convertible and can be used in either ducted or recirculating configurations with the correct charcoal filter kit. Always confirm compatibility with your specific model.
What happens if I don’t replace charcoal filters regularly?
Failure to replace charcoal filters can lead to poor odor control, reduced airflow, increased motor strain, and a noticeable decline in indoor air quality.
Who should I contact if I’m unsure which filter my hood needs?
If you are unsure which charcoal filter is compatible with your ZLINE range hood, contact a ZLINE product specialist or the customer service team here at The Range Hood Store for confirmation before purchasing.
