While there are numerous types of chimneys available these days, what are these appliances useful for? Take a very simple scenario in this case. Suppose you love cooking but each time, the kitchen gets filled up with nauseating and claustrophobic smoke and odours. The appliances and kitchen furniture also feel greasy and oily all the time. So what do you do? Installing a kitchen chimney is the answer to your problems.
A chimney is an appliance that sucks the odour, smoke, and oil to keep your kitchen non-greasy and clean. You should always look at the different chimney types before choosing your final product.
Here is a guide to the basic types of chimneys that you should check out. Among the different kinds of chimneys, the following broader categorizations can be made, depending on their placement.
Wall-mounted
Island
In-built or integrated
Corner
There is a range of different chimney types based on the presence of ducts. In this category, there are two types worth noting:
Ducted Chimneys: These are more efficient in purifying indoor air in the kitchen since they vent the fumes outside.
Ductless Chimneys: These are convenient for those who cannot install ducts
If you consider chimneys based on the frequency of cleaning their filters, then there are two types that you can pick from as well. These include the following:
Auto-cleaning chimneys: These chimneys automatically collect the oil in a bowl which can be removed and cleaned once a month or so. Cleaning does not require any additional work since the auto-clean button only has to be pushed while cooking
Manual cleaning chimney: These chimneys require more work for cleaning since the oil is not automatically collected in any collection bowl and accumulates inside. This requires thorough cleaning and scrubbing periodically.
Here are some factors worth taking into account before installing different chimney types.
Before choosing the chimney, the kitchen’s space, dimensions, ventilation system, and cooking habits should be taken into account. If you cook with loads of spices and oil, then you require a bigger and more efficient chimney although it should be proportionate to your kitchen. You can choose from box type, angular, curved glass, pyramid, and straight-line chimneys in this regard.
When looking at various types of chimneys, it is important to assess the size carefully.
Smaller chimneys may hover between 60-90 cm.
If you have one or two burner stoves, choose a 60 cm chimney.
You can go up to 90 cm in case you have three to four burners.
Auto-clean chimneys are easier to maintain and clean without much effort. You should keep this factor in mind while choosing your chimney.
This is the rate at which fumes, smoke, oil particles, and odor are absorbed by the chimney. It depends on the motor capacity. Hence, choose a chimney with good horsepower.
Carbon/Charcoal Filters: Some chimneys come with carbon/charcoal filters with holes. They absorb oil particles and smoke better and are ideal for Indian cooking methods. Yet, they may be expensive and have to be replaced every 3-4 months.
Mesh filters: Also known as cassette filters, these require cleaning every week. They may also be noisy at times, although they are affordable and long-lasting.
Baffle filters: These have several curved panels created with stainless steel. They are washable and require cleaning once each month while being durable and less noisy. Filterless auto-clean chimneys: These filters require minimal maintenance. However, they should have powerful motors to function properly.
You should consider whether your kitchen design can accommodate the installation of ducts. Otherwise, you will have to opt for a ductless chimney.
Here is how you can choose the best option for your needs after checking out the different kinds of chimneys available in the market.
Cooking frequency: If you cook regularly and intensively, then you should opt for a ducted model.
Space and maintenance aspects: Ductless chimneys take up less space since they do not have duct installation requirements. Auto-clean chimneys are good for those who do not want to spend much time on maintenance and cleaning.
Price Point: Look at installation charges which add up to the overall cost. Compare models for prices and go for one that fits your budget, without compromising on features.
Warranty and After-Sales Service: Look for a good service network and track record. The warranty can be from one year to even a lifetime.
When it comes to choosing from different types of chimneys, several brands stand out in an otherwise competitive market. Atomberg is one of the top choices for those who desire healthy cooking and more welcoming kitchen environments.
There are several types of chimneys in various sizes that are suited for many kinds of Indian kitchens. However, a size between 60-90 cm is usually considered appropriate in this regard.
Yes, most people seem to think that auto-cleaning chimneys are the best types of chimneys in the country. These come with powerful motors and do not require much maintenance.
When you are browsing through the different types of chimneys, you should consider factors like the price, warranty, after-sales service, duct installation, suction power, filter type, cleaning method, and the size of the chimney.
What is the difference between ducted and ductless chimneys?
Ducted chimneys come with a duct system and are suitable for bigger kitchen spaces. Ductless chimneys lack these systems and are smaller, which makes them ideal for smaller spaces.
Are there chimney options for small kitchens?
Yes, there are smaller chimneys which are wall-mounted and suitable for small kitchens. A 60 cm chimney may be suitable in this regard.
How often should chimney filters be cleaned or replaced?
Chimney filters should be cleaned or replaced every one to three months.
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