Poor Performance - Retractable Downdraft
Possible Solutions
- The retractable downdraft vent system is designed to remove smoke, cooking vapors, and odors from the cooktop area.
- For best results, the vent should be operating before cooking is started.
- If you use large or tall utensils, place them on the large rear element or burner surface.
Is the fan speed control set correctly?
- Excessively high fan speed may remove heat from the utensils and the food.
- A higher heat setting than usual may be needed when the downdraft vent is in use.
Refer to the Owner's Manual for specific operating instructions.
Are the grease filters clean and installed correctly?
- For optimal performance, operate the ventilation system with the filters properly installed. To avoid the buildup of grease, the filter should be cleaned often.
- Refer to the Owner's Manual for more information on cleaning the grease filter.
Visit Clean and Replace the Grease Filters in a Downdraft Vent Hood for additional information.
Replacement parts can be purchased at KitchenAid Purchase Genuine Parts.
Is there an air movement restriction in the room?
Any other air movement devices, such as ceiling fans, air conditioner registers, etc., can create air currents that interfere with ventilation.
Make-up Air:
- Local building codes may require the use of makeup air systems when using ventilation systems with air movement greater than the specified CFM. The specified CFM varies from locale to locale.
- The air that is exhausted by the unit must be replaced. If a room or house is too tight, the unit may not vent properly, and it will be necessary to introduce more air into the space.
Adjacent Cabinets:
- The cabinet opening dimensions shown in the Installation Instructions must be used.
- Given dimensions provide minimum clearance.
- Cabinets that are closer than the minimum allowed distance can create dead air pockets, impairing performance.
Refer to the Installation Instructions for complete details.
Was the vent system installed correctly?
There are specific venting requirements. Refer to the Installation Instructions for complete details.
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