Chimneys are becoming very popular in Indian kitchens. Gone are the days when you had to depend on keeping the kitchen window open or switching on the exhaust fan to let out the spice and oil-laden fumes from the kitchen and still cough volumes when that tadka was given to the food. The chimney keeps that smoke out of your kitchen, and while it started as a luxury kitchen item you could do without, it is now a standard kitchen appliance in great demand. But like everything else, you must choose the suitable kitchen chimney for your needs and keep your kitchen clean and smoke-free. This is easier said than done, as you can choose from many options at different prices. Use this article to choose the best kitchen chimney in India that fits your budget.
Size: Tailored to your kitchen needs
The kitchen chimney should be an ideal fit for your kitchen space and leave enough space for you to work and not feel claustrophobic. You don’t want your kitchen chimney to tower over you, which can overwhelm you in a small space. Typically, you can choose from 60 cm and 90 cm chimneys, and these sizes are available across diverse price ranges. An Elica 90 cm kitchen chimney will be available for around Rs. 15000, while a Faber 90 cm kitchen chimney in India will cost upwards of Rs. 19000. The price depends on the model and the brand you are going for.
Suction Capacity: Fume-pulling power is the key
Suction capacity refers to how much air a specific chimney model can pull out of the kitchen in an hour. Ideally, you need to talk with the chimney salesperson to understand the kind of suction capacity in your kitchen and the food you cook demands. Suction capacity is also called airflow and can range from 1000 m3 to 1500 m3, and some models might offer lower airflow or even higher. The price ranges from Rs. 10,000 to upwards of Rs. 60000 or more, depending on your chosen brand. An Elicia chimney with 1350m3/hr is available for approximately Rs. 20000, while a Bosch Serie- 4 Island hoods 90 cm 800 m3/hr Stainless steel Chimney is available for upwards of Rs. 65,000. The price, therefore, depends on your choice.
Annual Energy Consumption: Maximize benefits with minimal power
Buying a chimney is good, but how much will the chimney’s operation add to your electricity bill? The price of a kitchen chimney depends on its features, but do not forget the recurring energy costs in the form of your monthly electricity bills. The annual energy consumption of kitchen chimneys in India can be pegged between 100 and 250 kilowatt hours. You can use chimneys at both high-intensity and medium-intensity settings, and the higher the intensity, the more the electricity consumption, which in turn can take your electricity bill northwards.
Noise Level: Low disturbance levels are the key
The functioning of the electric chimneys can produce a noise that can sometimes be irritating; therefore, the best chimney for the kitchen is a low-noise chimney; ideally, you must pick a chimney with 58 decibels or below. Any decibel level over 70 can produce a very high noise, similar to the noise made by a vacuum cleaner.
Durability: Focus on chimneys that will last long
Whether it is a ductless chimney or any other, like most chimneys available on the market, you must pick an efficient and durable option. Research your options, and select a model known for its low maintenance and good reliability. Also, ensure that it has a comprehensive warranty; typically, the warranty on the kitchen chimney covers the motor for five years or more and offers comprehensive coverage for two years or more. While no rule says the more comprehensive the warranty, the more costly the kitchen chimney, you will find more reputed brands offering better warranties than others.
Price: Pick a chimney within budget
Chimney brands include Faber, Elica, Glen, Crompton, Livpure, Hindware, KAFF, Whirlpool, and others. Prices for these brands and the various chimney models begin at under Rs. 10000 and can go up to Rs. 60000 or more. Unique kitchen chimneys for huge kitchens can be priced higher.
To Conclude
The best kitchen chimney in India is one that addresses your cooking needs and falls within your budget. We want to reiterate that prices vary from brand to brand and expect prices to change yearly. Some brands offer some models at discounts at different times during the year, and if you are lucky, you can find a good chimney that is available at a significant discount. All the best for your search for the proper chimney for your kitchen.
FAQs
- When Should I Use a Kitchen Chimney?
A kitchen chimney is necessary and should be used whenever you cook in the kitchen. It ensures that the kitchen is free from strong smells and cooking fumes, making the kitchen space more comfortable for use and preventing the grease and oil from sticking to the walls, thus ensuring cleanliness.
- Can I find the best chimney for the kitchen between Rs 15,000 and Rs. 20,000?
Yes, you can find suitable chimneys within this price range, but bear in mind that the specifications will differ across price points, and you also need to consider reliability and durability when choosing the proper chimney for your needs.
- Apart from the price of the chimney, what other factors should I consider while choosing the chimney?
Some considerations are the airflow, size, noise level, and mounting type. When reviewing the options online, review all the specifications, thoroughly compare, and then choose.
- What is the most crucial feature of kitchen chimneys?
The most crucial feature of a kitchen chimney is its suction capacity or airflow. When choosing a chimney, ensure its suction power is well-suited to effectively clean the air in your kitchen based on its size
- Is a kitchen chimney challenging to maintain?
You will need to clean the chimney filters after a given point of time, and if you think they cannot be washed, they need to be replaced. If you want a chimney that will not require manual maintenance for long periods, choosing a chimney with auto-clean features is a good idea.
