Keeping your wall-mount kitchen chimney clean is vital for maintaining suction power, keeping your kitchen smoke-free, and preventing oil and grease build-up in the filters and ducts. Over time, grease and sticky residue accumulate on filters and the inside walls of the chimney, reducing efficiency and causing foul odors. This guide shows you how to clean a wall-mount kitchen chimney safely at home.
1. Why Regular Cleaning is Important for Wall-Mount Kitchen Chimneys
- Better Suction Power – Clean filters mean stronger airflow and less smoke.
- Energy Efficiency – The motor works less hard when filters are grease-free.
- Hygiene & Odor Control – Prevents bacterial growth and unpleasant smells.
- Longer Lifespan – Regular cleaning protects the fan motor and ducts from clogging.
Clean your filters every 2–4 weeks if you cook oily food, and do a deep clean every 3–6 months.
2. Safety First: Essential Precautions
- Turn off the chimney and unplug it from the power supply.
- Wear gloves and goggles to protect your hands and eyes from strong degreasers.
- Ensure ventilation – Keep kitchen windows open while cleaning.
- Use a stable stool or ladder if you need to reach high parts safely.
3. Tools & Materials Needed
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Bucket of warm water
- Mild dishwashing liquid or kitchen-safe alkaline degreaser (avoid harsh acids)
- Baking soda + vinegar (optional natural alternative)
- Steam cleaning machine (optional for heavy grease)
- Screwdriver (if filter panels need removal)
4. Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Step 1: Switch Off & Remove Filters
- Unplug the chimney.
- Open the panel and carefully remove baffle/mesh filters.
Step 2: Soak the Filters
- In a bucket, mix warm water with 1–2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid or an alkaline degreaser.
- Add a pinch of baking soda for extra grease-cutting power.
- Soak filters for 20–30 minutes.
Step 3: Scrub & Rinse
- Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub remaining grease.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let them air dry completely.
Step 4: Wipe the Inside Surface
- Dip a cloth in warm soapy water or degreaser solution.
- Wipe the inside walls and hood area of the chimney.
- For stubborn grease, use a steam machine to loosen deposits.
Step 5: Clean the Duct & Exterior
- Wipe the exterior body with a damp cloth.
- If the duct pipe is accessible, wipe or vacuum visible parts to prevent clogging.
Step 6: Reassemble & Test
- Once everything is dry, re-insert the filters, plug the unit back in, and test the suction.
5. Extra Tips
- Avoid using steel scrubbers on stainless-steel filters; they can scratch the surface.
- If filters are very old or damaged, replace them.
- Schedule a professional deep cleaning once a year for the motor and ducts.
- Always follow your brand’s maintenance manual.
6. Maintenance Advice
- Cook with lids on pans to reduce oil splatter.
- Clean filters regularly instead of waiting for heavy grease buildup.
- Consider installing an oil collector cup (if compatible) to reduce filter load.
Final Thoughts
Regular cleaning of your wall-mount kitchen chimney ensures better suction, odor-free cooking, and a longer-lasting appliance. With the right tools and a bit of care, you can do most of the cleaning yourself. For motor or duct cleaning, call a certified technician