Kitchen Feels Greasy With An Electric Chimney? Here Is How To Fix It

It's a scene many of us are all too familiar with: you've just finished cooking a hearty meal in your kitchen, the aroma of spices lingering in the air, and you're proud of the delicious dish you've created. Yet, despite your efforts to keep things tidy, there it is grease. Not just on the countertops but lingering in the corners of your kitchen, making the space feel dirty and unpleasant.

This scenario is especially puzzling when you've invested in an electric chimney to help ventilate all those cooking smells and grease. If you've ever asked yourself, "Why does my kitchen still feel greasy?" after cooking, you're certainly not alone. An electric chimney is supposed to be the hero, whisking away the smoke, steam, and grease. But sometimes, it just doesn't live up to expectations.

In this article, we'll explore the various reasons why your kitchen still feels greasy, even with that trusty electric chimney in place, and more importantly, how you can solve the problem once and for all. So, let's get to the bottom of this oily mystery and make your kitchen a cleaner, more comfortable place to cook.

Also Read: Why Your Kitchen Chimney Is Not Working As Well As It Should And How To Fix It

Why Your Kitchen Feels Greasy Even With An Electric Chimney; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. The Chimney's CFM Might Be Too Low For Your Kitchen Size

One of the main reasons your electric chimney might not be living up to expectations is its CFM, or cubic feet per minute, rating. The CFM of your chimney tells you how powerful the suction is. If your chimney isn't powerful enough for the size of your kitchen, it won't be able to effectively suck up all the grease, smoke, and steam produced while cooking.

For example, if you have a large, open kitchen with high ceilings or frequent heavy cooking, a low-CFM chimney won't do the trick. You might notice the grease settling on your cabinets, walls, and even the ceiling.

The Fix:

Before choosing or replacing your chimney, always check the CFM rating and compare it to the size of your kitchen. Typically, you need around 100 CFM for every square foot of kitchen space. So, for a kitchen of 200 square feet, a 2000 CFM chimney is ideal. It may sound a bit much, but the extra power ensures your chimney can handle whatever you throw at it.

2. Incorrect Installation Or Placement

You could have the best chimney model on the market, but if it's installed incorrectly, it may not function properly. For instance, placing the chimney too high or too far from the cooking area can reduce its efficiency. This means the chimney will struggle to capture the grease and smoke properly, allowing it to circulate in your kitchen instead.

Many chimneys are installed too far above the cooking range, which makes the suction less effective. If the chimney is not aligned properly or if it's too far from the cooking surface, its performance will be significantly hindered.

The Fix:

Check the installation manual of your electric chimney for the recommended height above the stove. Most chimneys should be positioned about 65-75 cm above your cooktop. If the chimney is too high or misaligned, consider getting it professionally reinstalled. It could make all the difference in how well it captures grease and smoke.

Why Your Kitchen Feels Greasy Even With An Electric Chimney; Photo Credit: Pexels

3. Clogged Filters: The Hidden Culprit

Filters are the unsung heroes of any electric chimney. They trap the grease, oil, and other particles from the air, preventing them from lingering in your kitchen. However, over time, these filters can get clogged, making the chimney less effective at capturing the greasy air. If your filters are dirty, even the most powerful chimney can leave your kitchen with that sticky, oily feeling.

The Fix:

Make sure to clean or replace your chimney's filters regularly. Some chimneys have reusable filters that you can wash, while others use disposable ones. Either way, neglecting to clean them will result in reduced performance. A clean filter ensures that grease is trapped before it has a chance to spread.

4. Not Using the Chimney At The Right Time

Many people only turn on the electric chimney after they've started cooking, but that's often too late to avoid the grease buildup. Waiting until the air is already thick with smoke and oil particles will make the chimney's job much harder. If you've been cooking for a while without any ventilation, the grease will already have coated your kitchen surfaces.

The Fix:

Turn on the chimney before you start cooking. The key is to create a strong airflow that will catch the smoke and grease before they settle. By having the chimney running during the entire cooking process, you can keep your kitchen cleaner and less greasy.

Why Your Kitchen Feels Greasy Even With An Electric Chimney; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Inadequate Kitchen Ventilation

An electric chimney works best when there is a clear exit route for the greasy air. If your kitchen has poor ventilation, such as a blocked duct or vent, the air may have nowhere to go, leading to grease lingering in the space. Without a proper outlet, the air will just recirculate, leaving the kitchen feeling greasy and stale.

The Fix:

Ensure your kitchen has adequate ventilation by checking the chimney's exhaust system. If there's a vent pipe, make sure it's clear of any blockages. Regularly inspect the ductwork to ensure air can escape without any obstructions. If your chimney is recirculating air back into the kitchen (instead of venting it outside), consider installing an external vent for better airflow.

6. Cooking Habits: The Grease Factor

Some cooking methods produce more grease and oil than others. Deep-frying, grilling, or stir-frying, for instance, are prime culprits in making your kitchen greasy. If you're frequently cooking with these methods, it's no wonder your kitchen feels sticky, even with an electric chimney in place.

The Fix:

If you're prone to deep-frying or cooking oily foods, try using a lid while cooking. This helps trap the steam and grease inside the pan and directs it to the chimney. Additionally, consider placing a cloth or paper towel on the stove to absorb excess oil when possible. A few minor adjustments to your cooking habits can drastically reduce the amount of grease left behind.

Why Your Kitchen Feels Greasy Even With An Electric Chimney; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Poor Quality Or Incompatible Chimney Models

It's tempting to go for a budget-friendly chimney, but sometimes the cheaper models just aren't up to the task of dealing with serious cooking grease. A low-quality or underpowered chimney might not remove the grease and smoke as efficiently, leaving the kitchen with a greasy feel. You may think it's working, but in reality, it's just circulating the grease around.

The Fix:

Invest in a good-quality electric chimney that is suited to your cooking needs. Look for models with strong suction power and reliable filtration systems. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can help you find a chimney that's right for you. A little extra investment can save you from constant cleaning and frustration later on.

8. The Kitchen's Overall Cleanliness Matters Too

Even with the best chimney in the world, a kitchen's cleanliness plays a massive role in how greasy it feels. If your walls, cabinets, and even ceiling are covered in grease from months (or years) of cooking, no chimney is going to make your kitchen feel fresh again. Sometimes, the greasy buildup around your kitchen surfaces becomes so ingrained that it makes the room feel unpleasant, even after a short cooking session.

The Fix:

Make it a habit to give your kitchen a deep clean every few months. Focus on areas that don't get cleaned every day, like the walls, under the cabinets, and the ceiling. A mixture of vinegar, water, and a bit of dish soap can go a long way in breaking down stubborn grease. Regular cleaning, along with a functional chimney, will keep your kitchen feeling fresh and grease-free.

Products Relaed To This Article

1. RUWA VIVA 60 BLACK Wall Mounted Black 800 CMH Chimney

2. Whirlpool CLASSIC BF 60 BK HOOD 60 cm 750 m³/hr Pyramid Shape

3. Whirlpool CLASSIC CF 60 BK HOOD Pyramid Shape 60cm

4. LIVPURE LIV-AIRIS-60+LIV-ZENO-2B COMBO Chimney And Cooktop Combo

5. Eurodomo HOOD INDIGO IN HC SC FL BK 90 Auto Clean Curved Glass 90 cm

6. LIVPURE Elega-60 Auto Clean Curved Glass 60 cm

7. Kutchina Virgose DLX 90 Auto Clean Wall Mounted Black 1400 CMH Chimney

In the end, it's easy to get frustrated when your kitchen feels greasy despite investing in a fancy electric chimney. However, as we've explored, the issue often lies in factors such as installation, maintenance, ventilation, or even cooking habits. By addressing these concerns, you can make sure your chimney works efficiently and your kitchen remains a clean and inviting space.

So, next time you're frustrated with that oily feeling in your kitchen, remember that small changes can make a big difference. With the right chimney, proper installation, and consistent cleaning, you'll be able to enjoy cooking without the worry of an oily mess lingering long after the meal. It's all about creating a balance between the power of your chimney and the cleanliness of your cooking environment, and soon enough, your kitchen will be the grease-free haven it should be.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.