A carbon filter, often called a charcoal filter, is used when a range hood or over-the-range microwave recirculates air instead of venting outside. It traps odors and some smoke, and it wears out, so it needs replacing on a schedule.
The six options below cover filters for common hood and microwave styles. We have not used these products ourselves, and fit is the main risk with any filter, so confirm your hood’s model number against the filter’s compatibility list on the current listing before buying. Filters are model-specific, so a similar-looking one may not fit. The model number is usually on a label inside the hood or the microwave.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | Match the filter to your hood or microwave model number |
| Shape and size | Round, rectangular and panel filters are not interchangeable |
| Carbon type | Activated carbon absorbs odors; amount varies |
| Count | Some listings include two filters |
| Replacement schedule | Check the maker’s guidance on how often to replace |
Specs at a Glance
| Filter | Used with | Shape | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broan-NuTone BPSF30 | Ductless range hoods | Panel | Check compatibility list |
| GE JX81H | GE over-the-range microwaves | Panel | Check the model list |
| Cosmo charcoal filter | Cosmo ductless hoods | Check listing | Match hood model |
| ZLINE charcoal filter | ZLINE ductless hoods | Check listing | Match hood model |
| Ciarra charcoal filter | Ciarra hoods | Check listing | Match hood model |
| Whirlpool charcoal filter | Whirlpool over-the-range microwaves | Check listing | Match microwave model |
The 6 Best Carbon Filter Replacements for Range Hoods
1. Broan-NuTone BPSF30 Charcoal Replacement Filter
A replacement charcoal filter for Broan-NuTone ductless range hoods. Check your hood’s model number against the compatibility list on the listing, since Broan-NuTone has several filter shapes.
Suits: owners of Broan-NuTone hoods. Strengths: a name-brand replacement. Weaknesses: fits only compatible hoods. Skip it if your hood is another brand.
View Broan-NuTone BPSF30 Charcoal Filter on Amazon
2. GE JX81H Charcoal Filter
A charcoal filter that GE lists for some of its over-the-range microwaves and recirculating hoods. Check the model list before ordering. GE lists several different filters, so the part number matters.
Suits: owners of compatible GE microwaves. Strengths: a brand-matched part. Weaknesses: fits only certain models. Skip it if your microwave is not on the list.
View GE JX81H Charcoal Filter on Amazon
3. Cosmo Charcoal Filter for Ductless Range Hood
A replacement filter made for Cosmo ductless range hoods. Match the hood model number to the listing to confirm fit. Look for a photo of the filter shape that matches your current one.
Suits: Cosmo hood owners. Strengths: a brand-matched filter. Weaknesses: fits only compatible Cosmo hoods. Skip it if you own another brand.
View Cosmo Charcoal Filter on Amazon
4. ZLINE Charcoal Filter for Ductless Range Hood
A charcoal filter for ZLINE hoods that run in recirculating mode. Check the listing for the models it fits. ZLINE sells hoods in various widths, so the filter size can differ.
Suits: ZLINE hood owners. Strengths: a brand-matched replacement. Weaknesses: fits only certain models. Skip it if your hood is another brand.
View ZLINE Charcoal Filter on Amazon
5. Ciarra Charcoal Filter for Range Hood
A replacement carbon filter sold for Ciarra range hoods. Always compare the shape and size with your current filter, and check the compatibility list for your hood’s model number.
Suits: Ciarra hood owners. Strengths: a matched filter. Weaknesses: check compatibility. Skip it if your hood is another brand.
View Ciarra Charcoal Filter on Amazon
6. Whirlpool Charcoal Filter for Over-the-Range Microwave
A replacement charcoal filter for Whirlpool over-the-range microwaves that recirculate air. Check the part against your microwave’s model number, which is usually on a label inside the door frame.
Suits: Whirlpool microwave owners. Strengths: a brand-matched part. Weaknesses: fits only certain models. Skip it if your microwave is another brand.
View Whirlpool Charcoal Filter on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Replace the filter on the maker’s schedule.
- Wear gloves when handling a used filter.
- Wash metal grease filters separately.
- Note the model number before ordering, and take a photo of the old filter.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying a filter by looks alone.
- Ignoring the model number.
- Waiting too long to replace it.
- Using a filter in a hood that vents outside.
Range Hood Carbon Filter FAQ
How often do I replace a carbon filter?
Many makers suggest every few months, depending on how much you cook. Check your manual for the interval your model recommends.
Can I wash a carbon filter?
Usually not. Only metal grease filters are washable, and charcoal filters should be replaced rather than rinsed.
Do vented hoods need carbon filters?
Usually not. They are for recirculating hoods.
Will a universal filter fit?
Only if it matches your hood’s shape and size, and the maker approves it. A bad fit can let air bypass the filter.
The Short Version
For Broan-NuTone hoods, the BPSF30. For compatible GE microwaves, the JX81H. For Cosmo, ZLINE or Ciarra hoods, use the brand-matched filter. For Whirlpool microwaves, the Whirlpool filter. Always match the model number first.