11
Care Instructions
CARE OF YOUR COPPER OR BRASS RANGE HOOD
Pure copper or brass, polished to a mirror finish, is used in the fabrication of your ABBAKA Range hood of
semiprecious metal. The optional utensil rail and “S” hooks are like wise made of pure mirror- polished
brass. These exotic metals are left in their natural state, uncoated, to provide a finished product of the high-
est luster and natural, rich color. The nature of copper and brass is to tarnish. However, the beauty of these
materials is that the brilliance of the original finish can be easily retained with a little care.
1. Do not use harsh alkali (i.e., oven cleaners) or acid base detergents (i.e., acid grout cleaner for tile),
abrasive polishes or scouring powders (this is a good rule of thumb for all range hoods regardless of
material or finish. Stainless steel or chrome plating can be scratched. The hard surface to enamel fin-
ishes will be dulled and become porous).
2. Tarnish can be removed with a number of readily available brass/copper cleaners and polishes. Follow
the manufacturer’s directions, using a soft cloth (baby diapers are excellent for this purpose). Polish or
wipe in a straight or horizontal direction. DO NOT USE A CIRCULAR MOTION. Use a NON-ABRASIVE
POLISH. ABBAKA makes no specific product endorsements. However, products such as WENOL,
SIMICHROME, and FLITZ have been found effective.
3. Normal body oils are in part alkali in composition. Consequently, fingerprints will turn to tarnish on cop-
per or brass. After polishing, a light application of wax will retard tarnishing. The wax creates a protective
barrier between the metal and tarnish producing moisture or fingerprints. A car wax with silicon, for ex-
ample, is well suited for the task.
4. Over time, scratching will gradually occur. These fine scratches will eventually work into a smooth, even
patina, much in the manner of sterling silver flatware, or an aged brass hand rail or banister. The patina
is viewed by many as a desirable trait, and in fact, can add character to the hood.
5. Fine scratches can normally be smoothed or blended into an even patina over the course of time. They
can also be completely buffed out by a professional metal refinisher. However, this may require removal
and reinstallation of the hood
Basic maintenance of your copper or brass ABBAKA range hood will ensure that it retains its natural beauty
for generations.
Polish with straight
level motion, parallel
to the bottom of the
hood
NOTE: Different
grain direction on
Barrel Forms or
hoods with
rounded canopy
or exhaust flue