Though chimney hoods are still relatively unfamiliar sight in most African kitchens, getting one for your kitchen can bring major benefits to your household. In this first instalment of our four-part special series on chimney hoods, we will delve into how these game-changing products can keep us and our loved ones safe while cooking.
What is a chimney hood?
A chimney hood, also known as a range hood, cooker hood or kitchen extractor, is a kitchen appliance installed directly above a cooktop in the kitchen. Its primary purpose is to extract and filter the airborne pollutants generated while cooking, such as smoke, grease and odours. Within its chassis, every chimney hood is typically equipped with a set of illumination lamps, control panel, filter(s), butterfly valve, air chamber and electric components. When the hood is switched on, the contaminated air is extracted by the blower and filtered through aluminium and/or charcoal filters before being led through the air chamber and butterfly valve.
Ideally, the chimney hood should be run in ducted mode, which allows the contaminated air to be sent outside the home through a duct installed in the kitchen walls. However, if the appliance is running on recirculating mode, the partially cleaned air will recirculate back into the kitchen. Thus, in this mode, a dip in performance is to be expected. For more information on this, please read our article on ducted vs. recirculating mode.
How do chimney hoods keep me safe?
Gas-powered hobs are still Africa's most popular and commonly used cooktops today. However, the open flames generated by the hob require oxygen to burn. Hence, if you are using multiple burners at once or using a high setting, the oxygen in the kitchen can deplete to dangerously low levels, especially in poorly ventilated kitchens. This can result in dizziness, headaches, eye irritation and even serious respiratory illnesses in the long term. A good chimney hood with sufficiently powerful blowers can improve the safety of your home and safeguard your health by constantly replenishing the kitchen's oxygen supply.
Why should I choose a Newmatic chimney hood?
Range. With 15 models to choose from, Newmatic has the largest range of chimney hoods in East Africa. Whether it's 60 or 90cm models you need, we've got you covered.
Stylish. Choose between 6 fashionable designs, including our patented curved chimney hoods.
Powerful. Expel unpleasant smoke, grease and odours from your kitchen in no time with our twin propellers, which generate up to 760m3 of airflow.
Durable. Our chassis is made of food-grade 304 stainless steel or tempered glass backed by our unconditional lifetime factory warranty. Our propellers and butterfly valves are also fully made of food-grade 304 stainless steel.
Service. Not sure what's best for you? Our professionally trained staff can provide you expert advice on what will best suit your kitchen and lifestyle. We also offer free delivery, installation and coring services to customers in Dar es Salaam. For more information, please visit our FAQ page or contact our Customer Service Hotline at +255 0764 740 972.
Warranty. All Newmatic chimney hoods intended for regular retail sale are backed with a 1-year general warranty and 5-year motor warranty. For more information, please visit our aforementioned FAQ page or contact the above Customer Service Hotline.
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