Revamp your range hood with these appliance painting tips


Steven E / Monday December 30, 2024


Is your kitchen feeling a bit blah, but a full-blown renovation isn’t in the cards right now? Sprucing up your range hood with a fresh coat of paint might just do the trick! With some handy tools and a pinch of patience, you can totally transform that old range hood into a chic focal point that vibes with your kitchen’s decor.

Quick Heads-Up: The tips we’re sharing might not fit every appliance out there. While we aim to dish out helpful advice for all sorts of DIY fixes, different models have their own quirks—things like troubleshooting steps, error codes, or parts might vary. For the best scoop, check your appliance’s manual or holler at us if you’ve got questions.

So, why bother painting your range hood?

Over the years, range hoods can start looking a little worse for wear. Scratches, faded colors, or just that outdated finish can really cramp your kitchen’s style. Instead of chucking a perfectly good appliance, why not give it a facelift? Painting is an affordable way to breathe new life into it.

What you need

      • Drop cloths or old newspapers
      • Mild soap and water
      • 220-grit sandpaper
      • Painter’s tape
      • Primer made for metal surfaces
      • Heat-resistant appliance paint
      • Paintbrushes or spray paint gear
      • Protective stuff (gloves, safety glasses, mask)

    Preparing your range hood

    1. Safety first, folks

    Before you jump in, make sure to cut the power to your range hood. You don’t want any accidental zaps! If you’re scratching your head on how to do this, check out your appliance’s manual or find your appliance’s model number for the deets.

    2. Give it a good scrub

    Grease and gunk are the enemy of a good paint job. Mix up some mild soap with warm water and give your range hood a thorough cleaning. Don’t forget those spots near the stove where grease loves to hang out.

    3. Lightly sand it down

    Grab that 220-grit sandpaper and gently sand the surface. This helps the primer and paint stick like they’re supposed to. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth when you’re done.

    Protecting the surrounding area

    1. Cover up nearby stuff

    Lay down drop cloths or newspapers over your countertops, stove, and anything else you don’t want to accidentally redecorate with paint splatters.

    2. Tape it off

    Use painter’s tape to block off edges and areas you don’t want painted, like control panels or logos. This’ll give you those crisp lines and a finish that looks pro.

    Priming time

    1. Pick the right primer

    Not all primers are created equal. Make sure you snag one that’s meant for metal surfaces. This step is clutch for making sure your paint job lasts.

    2. Slap on the primer

    Follow the instructions on the can and apply a thin, even layer of primer. Let it dry all the way—usually about an hour, but double-check the label to be sure.

    Time to paint

    1. Choose heat-resistant paint

    Your range hood gets warm, so you’ll need paint that can take the heat. Look for heat-resistant appliance paint that’ll stand up to higher temps without peeling or changing color.

    2. Let’s get painting

    Whether you go with spray paint or a traditional brush is up to you and the look you’re aiming for.

    Going the spray paint route

        • Shake that can like you mean it.
        • Hold it about a foot away from the surface.
        • Use smooth, sweeping motions to avoid drips.
        • Apply a few thin coats, letting each one dry as per the instructions.

      Using a brush

          • Give the paint a good stir for consistency.
          • Use a quality brush to keep brush marks at bay.
          • Apply thin coats, brushing in one direction.
          • Let each coat dry completely before adding another.

        Finishing up

        1. Remove the tape

        After the paint feels dry to the touch, carefully peel off the painter’s tape. This helps prevent any accidental peeling of your fresh paint.

        2. Power it back up

        Once the paint’s fully cured (check the can for exact times), it’s safe to reconnect the power to your range hood.

        3. Tidy up

        Clean up your workspace and dispose of any used materials according to local rules. Store leftover paint in case you need it for touch-ups down the road.

        Keeping it looking fresh

        To make sure your newly painted range hood stays looking sharp:

            • Wipe it down regularly with a soft cloth and mild cleaner.
            • Steer clear of harsh, abrasive cleaners that could scratch the finish.
            • Tackle any chips or scratches ASAP to prevent them from getting worse.

          Running into problems?

          Paint not sticking?

          If the paint isn’t adhering like it should, chances are the prep work wasn’t thorough. Make sure you’ve cleaned and sanded the hood properly before priming and painting.

          Drips or uneven paint?

          Applying too much paint at once can cause drips. Remember, thin coats are your friend! If you spot drips, let the paint dry, sand the area smooth, and give it another go.

          Need more help?

          If you’re dealing with issues beyond the cosmetic—like weird noises or parts not working—it might be something more serious. Swing by our repair help section for guides and DIY advice.

          Still scratching your head? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!

          Feeling inspired to tackle more DIY projects? Check out more ways to jazz up your kitchen and appliances at AppliancePartsPros.com. We’re all about helping you with appliance fixes and upgrades. Stay in the loop with us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest tips, deals, and updates. We can’t wait to see what you create!

          Get in Touch: Got questions or need a hand? Feel free to contact our team. We’re here to back you up every step of the way.