Product Information

1. How can I identify the product that I have at home?

The model of every product is indicated on the rating plate. There is a 12-digit code on the plate which starts with “208” called 12NC. You normally have to remove the aluminium filter grille to access the rating label. In some models, however, the rating label is also duplicated in the product documentation.

2. What is 12NC and where is it?

It is a 12-digit number that starts with 208 and is found on the product’s rating plate. This code is essential for identifying the hood model, ordering filters, accessories and/or spare parts, as well as requesting a technical service intervention.

3. What should I do if the rating plate is no longer legible?

If the rating plate deteriorates or is hard to read, please attach a photo of it to the form in the Contact us section. We will try to recover the product data necessary to solve the request.

Product Use

1. What’s the difference between the extractor version and the filtering version?

Elica hoods can be installed in 2 different versions:

  • The EXTRACTOR hood expels the air outside the home. It is the most common type as it guarantees high performance, high flow rate and minimum noise.
  • The FILTERING version removes unpleasant odours through a special filter and reintroduces the air into the kitchen area. This type is suitable in situations where there is no outlet hole, avoiding external heat dispersion.

 

EXTRACTOR

 

 

FILTERING

 

2. What kind of ducting pipe do I need to use to achieve the best performance?

The choice of ducting pipe depends on the type of configuration required for the kitchen. We recommend using:

  • a flexible ducting pipe for a direct outlet.
  • a rigid ducting pipe for a short section or if there are bends. This type of ducting pipe produces less noise than flexible or corrugated ducting pipes.

A ducting pipe with a diameter the same size as the hood outlet is required to achieve the best performance. If this is not possible, we recommend a maximum 20% reduction in the pipe diameter. Ducting pipes with diameters reduced more than 20% of the hood outlet hole diameter result in a negative impact on the flow rate and noise level of the hood. Some models do not provide for reductions, so we recommend checking the product manual to see if this is possible.

3. Do you recommend using an extractor or filtering version?

Elica recommends installing the extractor version of the hood because it guarantees a better performance, high flow rate and low noise levels. Only in cases where it is impossible to install a pipe to expel the air to the outside due to logistical and space reasons (for example, where there is no outlet hole), then install or convert the hood into a filtering version.

4. Can I convert the hood installation from one version to another?

Most Elica hoods can be converted from extractor to filtering and vice versa. To correctly convert the hood, always check the instruction manual and purchase the necessary accessories. If you would like to find out if your hood can be converted, please write to us using the form in the Contact us section indicating the 12NC of the hood in question.

Spare parts, filters and accessories

1. How often should I replace the carbon filters?

Replacing the carbon filter on a regular basis is necessary when the hood is used in the filtering configuration. Every filter has been specifically developed to maximise the air purification capability. We recommend replacing the carbon filter every 3-4 months to ensure that the hood works perfectly.

2. What’s the difference between standard carbon filters and long-life filters?

The standard carbon filters are disposable and last 3-4 months. Long-life filters, on the other hand, last 3 years. To maintain them correctly, they should be washed every 2-3 months in the dishwasher at 65° or by hand with hot water and neutral detergent and then, dried in the oven at 100° for 10 minutes.

3. What filters can be installed in NikolaTesla?

Ceramic filters can be fitted if NikolaTesla is installed in the filtering version. These filters last for 2-3 years and can be regenerated in the oven at 200° for 45 minutes. To maintain them correctly, repeat this operation every 3 months. Some models, such as NikolaTesla Libra, Prime and Flame, can be fitted with disposable carbon filters.

4. How do you clean grease filters?

Cleaning the grease filter ensure that the hood filtering system is maintained in the best possible state and guarantees long-term durability and correct hood operation. The grease filter should be washed by hand or in the dishwasher (on a low temperature setting) with neutral detergents (short cycle). The filter should be washed at least once a month and based on your individual needs. We also recommend periodically replacing it to improve the grease capturing capabilities. Always check how to wash the filter in the product instruction manual.

5. What should I do if the aluminium filters become discoloured after washing?

The grease filter may become discoloured after being washed in the dishwasher, but its filtering features and performance are not, in any way, affected.

6. What should I do if I can’t install a carbon filter?

Installing a carbon filter is normally a very quick and simple operation. All the information is outlined in the product installation manual. If you have mislaid the installation manual, you can download it directly in the data sheet of your hood model.

7. If I don’t change the carbon filter regularly, will my hood get damaged?

The carbon filter guarantees that stale air, generated during cooking in the kitchen, is regularly cleaned. The carbon filter has a specific life cycle. As time passes, the grease particles that accumulate may block the passage of air so the filtering process becomes less efficient and the motor becomes noisier. The plant-based activated carbon captures unpleasant odours, particles and unwanted substances before reintroducing the filtered air into your kitchen. Replacing the carbon filter on a regular basis is necessary when the hood is used in the filtering configuration.

8. Why is it important to use Elica original spare parts?

To ensure the very best results and problem-free use, Elica recommends that you only use original spare parts and accessories. Reliability, performance and safety must be accompanied by the quality of spare parts and accessories developed and manufactured following strict production criteria that only the parent company can guarantee, thus helping you to maintain the very high performance of Elica products in the long term.

9. How can I clean the hood and get the best results?

The hood must be cleaned with neutral products (pH7) that are neither alkaline nor acid. Check that there are no harmful components such as soda, ammonia, chlorine or acid in the cleaning product. If the hood is made of steel, it is important to be careful about the type of cleaning product you purchase as the presence of the above-mentioned substances may have a harmful effect on the steel, causing stains or rust spots. The hood must be regularly cleaned both internally and externally in strict accordance with the maintenance instructions. Failure to follow the rules for hood cleaning, as well as filter and accessory replacement and cleaning may result in a fire hazard.

10. How do I know if my hood can be used with a remote control?

To find out if your hood can be used with a remote control, fill in the form in the Contact us section. To find out the compatibility between products and accessories, it is essential to provide the hood’s 12NC code. This is a 12-digit number that starts with 208 and is found on the product’s rating plate. The compatibility is, however, also specified in the use and maintenance manual of all products.

Product technical support

1. How long does the warranty on Elica products last?

All Elica products are guaranteed with a legal warranty for 24 months. The warranty terms and conditions are indicated with each product.

2. How do I perform a hood extraction test?

The extraction test is carried out by checking the air outlet in the upper part of the hood: simply remove the duct pipe and allow the air to flow out freely by turning the hood on and varying the speed. If the air is discharged, the hood is operating correctly.

3. What should I do if the hood does not extract air?

Elica hoods can be installed with an extractor or filtering version.

If the hood is installed in extractor mode, the fumes are expelled directly to the outside via the ducting pipe. To ensure that the extractor mode works correctly, we suggest you observe the following indications:

  • Use a ducting pipe with the shortest length necessary.
  • Use a ducting pipe with the least number of bends possible (maximum bend angle: 90°).
  • Avoid drastic changes in the ducting pipe diameter.

If the hood, however, is installed in filtering mode, it is essential to install a carbon filter in the relevant slot. The carbon filter allows the air in the hood to be purified and reintroduced into the room without having to expel it. It is essential to carry out periodic maintenance of the carbon filter.

4. What information do I need to request technical support for the hood?

We recommend you contact the service partner for your area, and provide the product 12NC code and serial number when requesting technical support. Both these numbers can be found on the product’s rating plate.

5. I have mislaid the product manual, how can I get another one?

The manual for every hood is available on the elica.com website in the relevant product data sheet. If it is not present, you can request it by filling in the form in the Contact us section.

6. There is an indicator light flashing in the hood. Who should I contact?

Most Elica products have a system signalling when the filters are saturated. When the signal is active (LED/s flashing), the filters must be cleaned and a reset must be carried out as indicated in the instruction manual. If you clean the filters and do not perform the reset, the indicator light will continue to flash. In this case, we recommend that you consult the instruction manual and perform the reset operation or contact your local service partner. For correct maintenance, Elica recommends cleaning the grease filters after every 40 hours of use. Where the carbon filters are concerned, on the other hand, Elica suggests replacing them after every 160 hours of use or every 3-4 months (cleaning them in the case of Long-Life filters).

7. The hood seems to be vibrating. What can I check?

It is important to understand whether it is a mechanical or electronic vibration. Please contact your local service partner and communicate the product 12NC and date of purchase to the operator.

8. Is it mandatory to use a deflector or a fumes non-return valve?

The fumes non-return valve is only recommended for the extractor hood version with ducting into a communal flue to prevent the return of odours from other homes. If possible, the hood should always have a dedicated duct and should not connect to a communal flue. The fumes non-return valve must be free from obstruction and correctly installed to avoid an increase in noise and decrease in product performance.

9. Why does my hood produce drips that fall onto the hob?

If you have an electric or induction hob, it is normal for condensation to transform into droplets. This phenomenon does not normally occur in the case of gas hobs, as the gas heats both the pot and the surrounding air. As the hood also heats, the vapours rise and meet with a warm body, which causes them to evaporate. Induction hobs, on the other hand, heat the pot but not the surrounding air; therefore, when the vapours rise, they meet with a cold body, which transforms the vapours into droplets, which then fall onto the hob. Condensation is, however, a natural phenomenon. We advise you to turn the hood on 5-10 minutes before starting to cook and turn it off 10-15 minutes after you have finished.

Purchasing products

1. Where can I view the products?

Elica products are on show in major stores. You can find the address and contact information of the store nearest you at the following link:
https://www.elica.com/ZA-en/distribution.

2. The nearest distributor is far away. Can I purchase the products directly?

It is not possible to purchase the products directly from the manufacturer. Elica, however, has a widespread network of distributors located all over Italy. You can find the address and contact information of the store nearest you at the following link:
https://www.elica.com/ZA-en/distribution.

3. How can I purchase spare parts and accessories?

Spare parts, accessories and filters can be purchased from the best stores. You can find the address and contact information of the store nearest you at the following link:
https://www.elica.com/ZA-en/distribution.

4. Where can I view the products in the catalogue?

You view all the Elica products by accessing the following links:

Installation

1. Is a hole drilling template provided for all the models?

Not all the Elica hood models are sold with the hole drilling template in the box. If you want to know if a specific model has one or you want to request one in particular, fill in the form in the Contact us section, providing the 12-digit code which starts with “208”, indicated on the rating plate inside the product or the PRF code which you can find in the catalogue or on the www.elica.com website in the product section.

2. I have purchased a hood and I want to drill the fastening holes in advance. Can I request the manual and hole drilling template?

The hole drilling template is already included in the hood packaging in the products where it is present. To request one in advance, fill in the form in the Support section, providing the 12-digit code which starts with “208”, indicated on the rating plate inside the product or the PRF code which you can find in the catalogue or on the www.elica.com website in the product section. Check the measurements indicated in the document and the relevant scale before printing it.

3. Can I make the fumes outlet hole smaller?

The diameter of the outlet hole should never be reduced more than 20% of the original diameter. Reducing it by more than 20% will significantly decrease the performance of the hood and increase the noise level. For example, if the outlet hole is 150 mm, the section can be reduced to 125 mm at the most. If the outlet hole is 125 mm, it can be reduced to 100 mm. In some models, it is not possible to reduce the diameter of the fumes outlet hole, so we recommend checking the indications in the manual which can be downloaded from the Elica website in the product data sheet of the relevant model.

4. I have purchased an island hood. Can the discharge pipe be installed on the side?

In this case, in order to achieve an attractive aesthetic look, a modification must be made to create a false ceiling which allows the upper flue to have a partial excursion. Any changes to the product will void the legal warranty. It is important to follow the steps indicated in the manual to ensure correct installation.

5. I have bought an extractor hood. Do I have to make an outlet hole in the upper part of the room?

The ventilation hole for the extractor version is not required because the hood ducting pipe acts as the hole required by law. If there is a fumes non-return valve in the hood, the hole is necessary because the standard requires that there is always an external outlet to avoid the accumulation of harmful dioxides. Before installing the hood, you should download the technical data to find out about the product’s technical information.

6. If, for installation requirements, I have to position the hood lower than indicated in the instruction manual, will the warranty still be valid?

Positioning the hood at a lower height than indicated in the instruction manual will void the warranty and endanger the user’s safety as certain safety conditions may be lost. Moreover, if the installation instructions of the hob specify a greater distance, this should be taken into account.

NikolaTesla

1. How does NikolaTesla work?

NikolaTesla is Elica’s first downdraft induction hob with cutting-edge technology and a distinctive design, featuring bold lines and high-quality materials, combining the functions of two household appliances into one product. Change your point of view on the kitchen: NikolaTesla combines the perfection and design of a hob with the innovative technology of a powerful and silent extractor hood.

2. Where can I view the various models?

You can find the address and contact information of the store nearest you at the following link:
https://www.elica.com/ZA-en/distribution.

3. How can I clean NikolaTesla?

The hob must be cleaned after each use. Do not use abrasive sponges or scouring pads. Their use, over time, may ruin the glass. Do not use chemical irritants, such as oven sprays or stain removers. After each use, leave the hob to cool and clean it to remove deposits and stains caused by food residue. Sugar or food with a high sugar content damage the hob and must be removed immediately. Salt, sugar and sand may scratch the glass surface. Use a soft cloth, absorbent kitchen paper or products specifically for cleaning the hob. Do not use steam jet cleaners. If liquids accidentally or excessively leak out of the pots, the drain valve located on the lower part of the product can be opened so as to remove any residue and be able to clean in conditions of maximum hygiene. For cleaning, simply use a cloth moistened with neutral liquid detergents. Do not use cleaning tools or instruments. Avoid the use of products containing abrasive components and do not use alcohol.

4. What does Bridge zone mean?

Bridge zone is induction module technology that allows you to cook in the area between two cooking points on the same side.

5. What pans can I use for NikolaTesla models?

Pans must be marked with the specific symbol for induction cooking. We strongly recommend pans with complete magnetic steel bases and not ones with a perforated base because they are conductive in part. It is advisable to use pans with a flat, smooth and even base.

6. What is the E/2 error caused by?

The E2 error means the maximum permitted temperature has been exceeded.

7. It is possible to install an oven or any other household appliance under the NikolaTesla hob?

No, a gap must be ensured (the dimensions of which are indicated in the installation manual) to allow the internal components to cool.

8. It is possible to clean the compartment under the grease filter without dismantling the induction hob?

Yes, it can be cleaned without the risk of coming into contact with surfaces that could be damaged.

9. I have an aluminium or copper pan. Can I use it on the hob?

Generally speaking, you cannot because these materials are not magnetic. Test the base of the pan with a magnet to see if it is conductive.

10. What are the differences between Autocapture and Airmatic?

The Autocapture function adapts the extraction capacity to the maximum cooking level used in the cooking area whereas the Airmatic function (present only on NikolaTesla Switch) sets the most suitable extraction power based on the data detected by a sensor which distinguishes the quality of the fumes and the type of cooking.

11. If a lot of liquid is spilled, will it be collected in the central compartment that can be easily emptied via the special safety valve?

Yes, this valve is a hole with a plastic cap that is easy to remove and reinsert. If you want to, you can also remove the entire tray that is held in place with 2 latches or, sometimes, with magnets.

12. Is the name of the downdraft extractor hob a tribute to the engineer, NikolaTesla, who invented the modern alternating current electrical system?

Yes, it is. Just as NikolaTesla revolutionised the modern world with his invention, Elica has revolutionised the way you cook with the NikolaTesla downdraft extractor hob.

13. Does the POT DETECTOR function detect the presence of pots on the hob?

Yes, it does. The product automatically detects the presence of pots on the cooking areas and only activates if one is present.

14. How many KG can the scale in NikolaTesla Libra weigh?

It can weigh up to 10 kg.

15. Can NikolaTesla Flame be powered both by methane gas and LPG?

Yes, it can. The nozzles for installing the product in your preferred combination are provided in the packaging (by default, nozzles for methane gas are installed).

16. Is it possible to import an energy absorption limiter?

Yes, it is. This is the Power Limitation function. Check the hob manual to find out to what extent it is possible to limit energy consumption. It can be activated once the downdraft hob has been installed by following the procedure in the manual. The power limiter limits the total absorption of the hob. By setting a higher value, the hob automatically reduces the power of the first plate activated.

17. Does the Temperature Manager function allow food to be kept hot when ready?

Yes, it does. This is a level between 0 and 1 which maintains a constant temperature, ideal for keeping food hot when ready.

This function allows you to set the temperature on 3 pre-set levels only on NikolaTesla One HP, i.e.:

  • To slowly melt delicate products without affecting their characteristics (e.g. chocolate, butter, etc.).
  • To keep food hot without reaching boiling point.
  • To simmer food for prolonged periods (e.g. ragout, soups, vegetable soups, bain-marie) by maintaining a controlled cooking level and preventing food from boiling over or burning on the base of the pan.

18. There is an error code on the display of the NikolaTesla downdraft extractor hob. What should I do to solve the problem?

First, check the installation manual to see if it is a problem that you can solve on your own (Troubleshooting section). If not, contact your local service partner and communicate the error code.

19. To get optimal extraction with pans that are over 20 cm high, should I use a lid so the fumes are directed towards the extraction system?

Yes, this is always a good idea.

20. What is the Power Booster function?

If the product has the Power Booster function, it means that is has an additional power level which remains active for a maximum of 10 minutes, after which the power returns to the level previously set.

21. Can I use more than one area with the Power Booster at the same time?

NikolaTesla has 4 cooking areas: 2 on the right and 2 on the left. The sum of the cooking areas on the right or left cannot be greater than 16 A = 3700 W. It is, therefore, only possible to use one area with the Power Booster on each side. If you set a higher power on both the right and left side, the hob will automatically reduce the power of the first cooking area activated. If, however, NikolaTesla is set with the Power Limitation, this limit is lowered to the absorption set. We recommend, however, checking the indications in the product’s use and maintenance manual.