Chimney, a kitchen appliance nowadays, is an essential requirement of most modern kitchens. It is incredibly effective at eliminating heat, smoke, oil, vapours, odours, and grease, leaving the kitchen odour-free and spotless.
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In urban homes where ventilation may be limited, one must consider the chimneys that can best suit their kitchen among the many varieties available in the market. If you are confused about buying a chimney for your kitchen based on the dimensions of your kitchen, appliances in use, and more, here are some tips to be mindful about choosing a good chimney for your kitchen.
3 Tips To Be Mindful About While Purchasing A Kitchen Chimney
Consider The Size And Type Of Chimney Required
Before purchasing a kitchen chimney, first consider the size and type that will be best for your kitchen. Chimneys generally come in 60 cm and 90 cm sizes. If your kitchen has a two-burner stove, a 60 cm chimney is suitable for your kitchen, while on the other hand, a 90 cm chimney is ideal for larger stoves with three to four burners.
Additionally, while choosing the type of chimney, consider which fits your kitchen layout, such as wall-mounted chimneys that are attached to the kitchen wall above the stove or island chimneys that are installed in the centre of the kitchen above a cooking island.
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Research The Brands For Quality And Budget Consideration
Before going to purchase, it is important to research different brands. Go for reputable brands that are known for quality and provide reliable customer service. Consider a budget that aligns with your needs and preferences. High-end models always offer advanced features, but on the other hand, many mid-range options can provide excellent operations at a reasonable price.
Understand Chimney Features Well
Understand the features of a chimney, as they can greatly influence your buying decision. Pay attention to the filter type, like baffle filters, which are ideal for heavy cooking and are easy to clean. Or charcoal filters that can help better with odour removal, but they need regular replacement. Consider the suction power to match according to your cooking style; higher suction power is better for frequent cooking.
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Ensure to check the noise level, as a less noisy chimney enhances the daily cooking experience. Also, look for additional features like auto-clean functions for easy maintenance, and choose a design that complements your kitchen aesthetics.
5 Tips To Maintain Chimney
Ensure Regular Cleaning
To ensure the effective function of the chimney, clean the filters of your chimney regularly and remove grease and dirt. Generally, in Indian households, cleaning every two weeks is ideal. For cleaning, simply soak the filters in hot, soapy water, scrub gently, and rinse thoroughly.
Schedule Professional Inspection
Make sure to have a professional inspection of your chimney every six months. They can check for any issues and will help to clean hard-to-reach areas and ensure everything is working properly.
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Use The Auto Clean Method
If your chimney has an auto-clean feature, use it by following the steps recommended by the manufacturer. This feature helps remove grease buildup on the chimney, reduces the need for manual cleaning, and will save your budget, which you have allotted for scheduling a professional inspection.
Check Ducts And Connection
At regular intervals, check the ducts and connections to ensure they are clear and properly secured. Clean the ducts if needed to prevent blockages and ensure smooth airflow and proper functioning.
Replace Filters When Needed
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for replacing charcoal filters and any other types of filters, as it will keep the chimney efficient and help remove odours and smoke effectively.