This document describes the DEFY DCH323 Cooker Hood, specifically an Island Hood with Curved Glass, designed for household and similar applications. It functions as either an air extractor or an air re-circulator, aiming to keep the kitchen free of grease and cooking odours.
Function Description:
The cooker hood operates by drawing in kitchen vapours through a fan. These vapours then pass through a filter system.
- Air Extractor Mode: In this mode, the air is drawn in, cleaned by an aluminium filter, and then directed outside through an exhaust pipe (150mm diameter, not included). This setup requires an external wall connection for discharge.
- Air Re-circulator Mode: When operating as a re-circulator, the air is drawn in, cleaned by a carbon filter (not included), and then released back into the room. This mode is suitable for installations where external ducting is not feasible.
The appliance is designed to be switched on before cooking to effectively eliminate contaminated air and should be left running for 15 minutes after cooking for thorough air purification. Its effective performance is dependent on consistent maintenance, particularly of the filters.
Important Safety Instructions:
The manual emphasizes several critical safety points:
- General Safety:
- Do not operate if defective or visibly damaged.
- No repairs or modifications should be carried out by the user.
- Never wash with water due to electric shock risk.
- Avoid using under the influence of alcohol/drugs.
- Disconnect from mains during installation, maintenance, cleaning, and repair.
- Keep flammable materials away.
- Ensure function knobs are switched off after use.
- Switch off power at mains during faults or cleaning.
- Do not check filters while operating.
- Never operate without a filter.
- Complies with all relevant safety regulations.
- Not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities or lack of experience/knowledge unless supervised.
- Children must be supervised to prevent tampering and should not perform cleaning or maintenance without supervision.
- Never leave cooking fat or oil unattended due to fire risk.
- Do not flambé food directly under the hood.
- Observe minimum distance (at least 65 cm for gas appliances) between the hob's supporting surface and the lowest part of the hood.
- Regulations concerning air discharge must be fulfilled; air must not be discharged into a flue used for other fuel-burning appliances.
- Ensure adequate room ventilation when used simultaneously with other fuel-burning appliances.
- Avoid touching light fittings or adjacent hot areas during or after prolonged use.
- Electrical appliances can be a hazard in certain circumstances.
- Avoid exposed flames and ensure burners are covered to prevent damage to filters and fire hazards.
- Constantly check frying food to prevent overheated oil from becoming a fire hazard.
- Risk of fire if cleaning is not carried out as instructed.
- Do not use with a programmer, timer, separate remote-control system, or any other device that switches on automatically.
- Accessible parts may become hot during use.
- Safety for Children:
- Electrical products are dangerous to children; keep them away from the operating hood.
- Packaging materials are dangerous; dispose of them responsibly.
- Cut plastic bags to prevent accidental suffocation.
- Safety when working with electricity:
- Connect to an earthed outlet/line protected by a suitable fuse.
- Earth installation must be done by a qualified electrician.
- Manufacturer and seller are not responsible for damage due to incorrect installation or electrical connection.
- Damaged supply cord must be replaced by the manufacturer, service agent, or qualified persons.
- Defective electrical equipment is a major cause of house fires.
- Electrical work should only be carried out by authorized and qualified persons.
- In case of damage, switch off, disconnect from mains, and report to dealer for corrective action.
- Manufacturer is not liable for damage caused by improper use or handling errors.
- Damaged power cables must be replaced by an Authorized Service Agent.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Supply: 220-230V~ / 50Hz.
- Mounting: Designed for ceiling installation. The ceiling must support at least 40kgs and have a thickness of 30MM or more. A 170mm round hole is required in the ceiling.
- Ducting: For extractor mode, an exhaust pipe with 150mm diameter is required (not included).
- Lighting: Uses 20W 12V halogen lights (G4 20W Max).
- Ventilation Tube Bending: Must be ≥120°, parallel or above the start point, and connected to the external wall.
Usage Features:
- Control Panel: Features buttons for motor speed (Low, Mid, High) and a light button to turn lights on or off.
- Air Extractor Installation: Air is drawn in, cleaned by an aluminium filter, and directed outside through an exhaust pipe.
- Air Re-circulator Installation: Air is drawn in, cleaned by a carbon filter (not included), and released back into the room.
- Carbon Filter Installation (for re-circulator mode):
- Remove the aluminium filter.
- Insert the carbon filter into the rectangular hole, fitting it over the motor.
- Insert the front edge of the carbon filter into the slot on the cooker hood.
- Lower the back edge until it clicks into place at the rear of the rectangular hole.
- Raise the two fixing bars until they are horizontal over the carbon filter.
- Place the aluminium filter back into position.
- Reverse procedure for uninstallation.
- Pre-use: Read the manual carefully, remove all packaging (except protective film), and dispose of it environmentally. Do not use if damaged; report to dealer. Ensure protective coverings are removed after installation.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning the Air Filter:
- In normal operation (1-2 hours daily), filters should be cleaned every 8-10 weeks.
- The air filter is made of high-density aluminium; do not use corrosive detergents.
- Procedure:
- Place filter in clean water (40-50°C).
- Pour detergent on filter and soak for ~3 minutes.
- Wear gloves and gently clean with a soft brush.
- Do not apply too much pressure to avoid damage.
- Cleaning the Hood (External Surfaces and Controls):
- Use a little washing-up liquid applied with a soft sponge or cloth.
- Wipe dry with a soft cloth.
- Only use a damp cloth; water could damage the unit.
- Do not use cleaning agents containing soda, acids, chlorides, or solvents.
- Do not use abrasive cleaning agents (powder cleaners, cream cleanser, abrasive sponges, pot scourers) as these will damage the surface material.
- Keep the motor and other parts free from water to prevent damage.
- Stainless Steel Cleaning:
- Frequent cleaning is recommended.
- Routine cleaning preserves corrosion resistance and appearance.
- Clean as often as necessary (when dull or dirty).
- Use clean water or mild detergent solution with a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rinse well and wipe dry.
- Always wipe in the direction of the brushed texture.
- Periodically apply a fine film of dedicated stainless steel cleaner or baby oil for lustre.
- Do not use: Steam cleaner, acid, alcohol, soda, chloride or spirit-based cleaners, coarse abrasive cleaning powders, metallic scourers, steel wool, metal scrapers, plastic scouring pads, wire brushes, emery paper, or "silver cleaners."
- Replacing the Lamp:
- Disconnect electricity supply.
- Remove lamp cover ring and glass.
- Replace with a 20W 12V halogen light (G4 20W Max).
- Do not touch bulbs with bare hands.
- Hold cover and glass securely when handling.
- Carbon Pad Filters (Optional):
- Assist in removing unwanted cooking odours.
- Not required if filtered air is ducted outside.
- Factory-approved carbon pad filters and installation kits can be purchased from Defy Service Centres or authorized agents.
- Used to purify air released back into the room.
- Not washable or re-usable; must be replaced at least once every three months.
- Saturation level depends on usage frequency, cooking type, and anti-grease filter cleaning regularity.
- Must not be exposed to heat.
Owner's Responsibility:
The owner is responsible for:
- Damage to exterior finish.
- Breakage of glass and other components.
- Replacement of light bulbs.
- Damage through improper use or installation.
Problem Check (Before calling service technician):
- Check main distribution board for tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse.
- Check wall socket.
- Ensure filters have been cleaned.
- Check if chimney is blocked.
- Service calls for faults due to owner responsibility may be charged, even during the warranty period.
The manual also provides contact information for Defy Customer Care Line and various branches in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. The manufacturer strives for continuous improvement, so the manual's text and illustrations are subject to change without notice.
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