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Extractor fan chimney: What is its purpose and what is the difference between external exhaust and air recirculation?
When looking for a new kitchen extractor fan, many people focus on the suction power or the exterior design, but there is an important element that does not receive as much attention, which is the extractor fan chimney.
Although its elegant shape makes it a prominent part of the kitchen design, its role is not limited to the aesthetic aspect only, but is also related to the way the ventilation system works inside the kitchen.
What is a range hood chimney? What is its relationship to external exhaust and air recirculation? And what is the role of the different filters in each system?
What is a range hood chimney?
The extractor fan chimney is the upper part that extends over the pyramidal or decorative body of the extractor fan.
Its primary function is:
- Conceal a pipe or air duct.
- The extractor fan was given a uniform and elegant appearance.
- Assistance in directing air towards the external discharge path when present.
Therefore, it is not the suction element itself, but rather part of the ventilation system and the overall design of the extractor fan.
When is the extractor fan chimney important?
The importance of the chimney becomes even more apparent when using a extractor fan with an external exhaust system.
In this system, fumes, fats, and odors are drawn from the cooking area and then transported through an air duct that runs inside the chimney to the outside of the house.
Here, the chimney acts as an elegant cover that hides the components of the ventilation system and maintains the aesthetic appearance of the kitchen.
External expulsion: The most efficient solution for eliminating odors
The external exhaust system relies on completely expelling air outside the house.
Its features include:
- The actual elimination of odors.
- Expel fumes and heat to the outside.
- Reduce the accumulation of grease and moisture inside the kitchen.
- Achieving the highest levels of suction efficiency.
Therefore, it is the preferred option in many kitchens that allow the installation of an external air outlet.
What is the role of metal filters in an external centrifuge system?
Even when expelling air to the outside, metal filters remain an essential element.
Its function:
- Capture volatile fats and oils.
- Protecting the engine and internal parts.
- Reducing the buildup of grease inside the airway.
Therefore, grease filters are considered the first line of defense inside the chimney.
With daily use, grease and oils begin to accumulate on the surface of the filters, reducing airflow and affecting suction power.
Therefore, it is advisable to clean the filters periodically to maintain optimal chimney performance.
Air recirculation: when no external outlet is available
In some kitchens it is not possible to install an air duct that leads outside the house.
This system works by:
- Air is drawn out of the cooking area.
- Pass it through the filters.
- Air purification.
- Bringing fresh air back into the kitchen.
This is where the carbon filter comes in
When using a recycling system, it is not enough to rely solely on metal filters.
Metal filters capture grease, but do not completely remove odors.
This is why an activated carbon filter is used .
It works on:
- Absorbing cooking odors.
- Improve the quality of air returned to the kitchen.
- Reduce the lingering of odors for extended periods.
Unlike metal filters, a carbon filter cannot be washed and must be replaced periodically to maintain its effectiveness.
Which is better: expulsion or recycling?
The choice depends on the kitchen design and installation possibilities.
external expulsion
Suitable if there is an external air outlet.
Its advantages:
- Highest efficiency.
- Complete elimination of odors.
- Reduce heat and humidity.
Recycling
Suitable when no external outlet is available.
Its advantages:
- Easy to install.
- Greater flexibility in some kitchens.
- It does not require additional extensions.
