Kitchen Chimney Buying Guide: If you’re someone who loves to cook delicious items and spends a lot of time creating culinary masterpieces in your kitchen, you’re probably familiar with the challenges of keeping your space clean and smoke-free. Grease, steam, and odours can overwhelm even the most well-ventilated kitchens. And this is where the kitchen chimney enters – an essential appliance that can make all the difference in maintaining a fresh and inviting cooking environment. This kitchen chimney buying guide 2024 India will help you understand what to look for when buying a kitchen chimney to make an informed decision.
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What are Kitchen Chimneys?
Before delving into this best kitchen chimney buying guide 2024, it’s crucial to get a clear picture of what a kitchen chimney is and how it works.
A kitchen chimney is an electric fan or exhaust system that hangs above the cooktop to suck in vapours, filtering out grease particles, heat, odours, and smoke from cooking. Depending on your kitchen layout, there are various types of wall-mounted, island, built-in, and corner chimneys.
What is Suction Capacity?
The core feature of a chimney is its suction capacity – the ability to absorb smoke and fumes at a specific rate, measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/hr). For Indian kitchens, where high-flame cooking is popular, it’s advisable to look for chimneys with higher suction capacities ranging from 800 m³/hr to 1200 m³/hr.
What are the Filter Types?
As per our kitchen chimney buying guide, there are the following types of filters used in chimneys:
What are Kitchen Chimneys?
What are the Types of Kitchen Chimneys?
| Wall-Mounted Chimney | The most commonly used type of kitchen chimney as per kitchen chimney buying guide 2024 India is the wall-mounted chimney. As the name suggests, this type of chimney is installed against the wall above the cooktop. It comes with a duct that helps to expel all the smoke and odours from the kitchen. Wall-mounted chimneys are available in different sizes and designs. Such versatility makes them suitable for all kinds of kitchen layouts. This type of chimney is best suited for kitchens with a horizontal or vertical ducting system. |
| Island Chimney | An island chimney is one of the best kitchen chimney 2024 as it is ideal for kitchens with a cooking island or a countertop in the centre of the room. These chimneys are mounted to the ceiling instead of the wall, allowing them to hang freely above the cooktop. Island chimneys come with longer ducting pipes to accommodate the distance between the cooktop and the ceiling. They are designed to add a touch of sophistication to the kitchen and are usually the centrepiece of the room. |
| Built-In Chimney | Built-in chimneys are integrated into the kitchen cabinets, making them a seamless part of the kitchen design. They are ideal for smaller kitchens where space is limited. Built-in chimneys are usually installed above the cooktop or built into the kitchen wall. They are compact and do not take up much space, making them a perfect choice for modern, minimalist kitchens. |
| Under-Cabinet Chimney | Under-cabinet chimneys, according to our kitchen chimney buying guide, are similar to built-in chimneys but are installed beneath the kitchen cabinets. They are suitable for kitchens that have limited space above the cooktop. Under-cabinet chimneys are a practical choice for busy kitchens as they do not obstruct the view while cooking. They are also easy to clean and maintain. |
| Downdraft Chimney | Downdraft chimneys are a relatively new type of kitchen chimneys that are installed behind the cooktop. These chimneys work by sucking in the smoke and odour from the cooktop and expelling it through a duct that is installed below the kitchen floor. Downdraft chimneys are a great space-saving option for kitchens with limited space. They also have a sleek and modern design, which adds to the aesthetics of the kitchen. |
| Filterless Chimney | Filterless chimneys, also known as baffle chimneys, use advanced technology to trap and collect grease and oil particles from the air. They do not require any filters and are easy to clean and maintain. Filterless chimneys are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan compared to chimneys with filters. They are also quieter and more powerful, making them a popular choice among homeowners. |
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What are Some of the Most Special Features You Get in a Kitchen Chimney?
| Multiple Suction Power Levels: One of the most significant advantages of modern kitchen chimneys is the availability of multiple suction power levels. This feature helps you adjust the suction power according to the type of cooking and the amount of smoke or odours generated. For instance, if you are frying food or cooking something with strong flavours, you can switch on the high suction power to quickly eliminate the smoke and smells. For regular cooking, you can use a lower suction power, which saves energy and reduces noise. | Auto Clean Technology: Cleaning a kitchen chimney has always been a daunting and time-consuming task. But with the advent of auto-clean technology, this task has become significantly more manageable. This feature mentioned in this kitchen chimney buying guide uses a heating element to melt the accumulated grease and oil, which is then collected in a separate oil collector. All you need to do is push a button, and the chimney will take care of the rest. This not only saves your time and effort but also ensures that the chimney functions efficiently. |
| Touch Control Panel: Gone are the days of traditional push buttons for controlling kitchen chimneys. Nowadays, most modern chimneys come with a touch control panel that not only adds a sleek and sophisticated look to the appliance but also makes it effortless to use. With just a slight touch, you can switch on/off the chimney, change the suction power, and even turn on the LED lights. This feature is not only convenient but also adds a touch of modernity to your kitchen | LED Lighting: A well-lit cooking area is essential for safe and efficient cooking. Kitchen chimneys now come equipped with LED lights to illuminate the cooking space. These lights not only provide sufficient light for cooking but also enhance the overall ambience of the kitchen. Moreover, LED lights are energy-efficient, which means they consume less power and last longer than traditional incandescent or fluorescent lights. |
| Heat Sensor: What makes a kitchen chimney the best kitchen chimney 2024? The answer is a Heat sensor. This sensor detects the temperature of the cooking surface and automatically adjusts the suction power accordingly. This ensures that the chimney functions at its optimum level and there is no waste of energy. This feature is handy when cooking dishes that require a high flame or intense heat | Baffle Filter: One of the most crucial components of a kitchen chimney, as per our kitchen chimney buying guide 2024 India, is the filter. Traditional mesh filters were not very efficient in trapping grease and oil, which led to a decrease in the chimney’s suction power over time. But modern chimneys come with baffle filters. These are designed to separate grease and oil from the smoke and fumes, thus maintaining the chimney’s efficiency for a longer time. Baffle filters are relatively easier to clean and maintain. |
How To Select The Best Kitchen Chimney 2024?
Evaluate Kitchen Dimensions and Configuration
Assess and measure the size and layout of your kitchen to determine the appropriate chimney dimensions and style. Take into account the positioning of your cooking range or hob, and select a chimney that adequately covers the entire cooking area.
Select Ventilation Method
Choose between a ducted or ductless chimney based on your kitchen’s requirements. Ducted chimneys excel in eliminating smoke and odors efficiently, while ductless chimneys offer easier installation options in certain spaces. Therefore, in order to select the type of chimney, our kitchen chimney buying guide first recommends you to select the type of ventilation you have in your kitchen.
Type of Chimney
Once you have analyzed the space and ventilation type, the next step is to consider the type of chimney. There are numerous types of chimneys that are mentioned above. Based on your calculations, select the one that suits you the most.
Suction Power
For Indian kitchens, where most cooking involves deep-frying and tadkas, it is advisable to choose a chimney with a suction power of 1000 m3/hr or higher. A higher suction power means the chimney can remove smoke and fumes faster, making the cooking experience more comfortable.
Filter Type
Various types of filters are available for kitchen chimneys, such as baffle filters, mesh filters, and carbon filters. Baffle filters are the most effective as they have a curved design that traps oil and grease, allowing clean air to pass through. Mesh filters have multiple layers of mesh that trap oil and grease but require frequent cleaning. Carbon filters are used in ductless chimneys and absorb odour and smoke, but they must be replaced every few months.
Noise Level
Noise level is often overlooked, but according to our kitchen chimney buying guide, it can significantly impact your cooking experience. A loud chimney can be very distracting and make cooking noisy. A 55 decibels or lower noise level is considered ideal for a kitchen chimney.
Brand and Warranty
Considering a kitchen chimney is a durable product, it is always advisable to purchase it from a reputable brand, as it ensures the quality and durability of the product. A good and well-established brand will also offer a warranty, which is essential in case of any malfunction or defects. Furthermore, recognized brands provide good services due to their vast service networks. Therefore, check the warranty period and the brand’s after-sales service before purchasing.
Budget
According to our kitchen chimney buying guide, it is pivotal to consider your budget before buying a kitchen chimney. They come in a wide range of prices, and balancing your budget and the features and quality you are looking for is essential. Investing in a good quality chimney that may be slightly expensive but will last longer and provide better performance is always wise.
How Do You Maintain Your Kitchen Chimney?
| Regular Cleaning Schedule | 1. Establish a routine for cleaning your kitchen chimney. 2. At least once every two weeks or more frequently if you cook often. |
| Gather Necessary Supplies | 1. Get a sturdy ladder or step stool. 2. Have cleaning solutions like degreaser or vinegar. 3. Prepare soft cloths or sponges for wiping. |
| Safety Precautions | 1. Ensure the chimney is turned off and cool before cleaning. 2. Use gloves and eye protection. 3. While cleaning your kitchen chimney, ventilate your kitchen area well to avoid inhaling fumes. |
| Remove Filters | 1. Take out the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 2. Soak the filters in hot, soapy water to loosen grease and grime. |
| Clean the Exterior | 1. Wipe the exterior surfaces of your kitchen chimney with a damp cloth. 2. Pay attention to knobs, buttons, and display panels. |
| Clean the Interior | 1. Use a degreaser or a mixture of vinegar, salt and water to clean the interior walls. 2. Scrub your kitchen chimney gently with a soft brush or sponge. 3. Avoid harsh abrasives. |
| Check the Exhaust Duct | 1. Inspect the exhaust duct for any blockages or buildup. 2. Use a brush to remove debris. |
| Check for Damage | 1. Look for any signs of wear or damage, such as loose screws or cracked surfaces. 2. Address any issues promptly. |
| Reassemble and Test | 1. Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble the chimney according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 2. Test the chimney to ensure it’s functioning correctly |
| Maintenance Tips | 1. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. 2.Consider professional servicing annually for thorough inspection and maintenance |
Verdict
From ‘what is a kitchen chimney‘ to ‘buying the best kitchen chimney‘, this comprehensive kitchen chimney buying guide contains all the necessary information you need. The above-mentioned points regarding kitchen chimneys will not only help you understand kitchen chimneys in a better way, but also will help you get the best kitchen chimney in 2024.
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FAQs
For Indian kitchens, which often involve heavy cooking with spices and oils, a ducted chimney is generally considered the best option. Ducted chimneys remove smoke, grease, and odours by venting them outside the kitchen.
