Cassette Filter, Baffle Filter, and Filterless Chimney are three different types of filters used in kitchen chimneys to remove smoke, grease, and odors generated during cooking. Each filter has its own advantages and characteristics. Let’s explore each type in detail:
- Cassette Filter: Cassette filters, also known as mesh filters or aluminum filters, are made up of layers of aluminum mesh. These layers are stacked together to create a filter cassette. The primary function of the cassette filter is to trap grease and oil particles from the cooking fumes. The mesh has small gaps that capture the grease while allowing the smoke to pass through.
Advantages of Cassette Filters:
- Easy to remove and clean: Cassette filters are relatively easy to detach and clean. They can be washed with mild detergent and water or cleaned in a dishwasher.
- Cost-effective: Cassette filters are typically more affordable compared to other filter types.
- Reusable: Once cleaned, cassette filters can be reused, making them a sustainable option.
Disadvantages of Cassette Filters:
- Less effective for heavy cooking: Cassette filters may not be as effective in capturing heavy smoke and strong odors compared to other filter types.
- Regular maintenance required: Since grease and oil accumulate on the mesh, regular cleaning is necessary to maintain the filter’s performance.
- Baffle Filter: Baffle filters are constructed with multiple curved panels or baffle plates made of aluminum or stainless steel. These plates are arranged in a maze-like pattern, creating an obstacle course for the cooking fumes. As the smoke passes through the filter, the baffles change the direction of airflow, causing the grease and oil particles to condense and settle on the baffles. The purified air then moves freely out of the chimney.
Advantages of Baffle Filters:
- Efficient grease and oil trapping: Baffle filters are highly effective in capturing grease and oil particles, making them suitable for heavy cooking.
- Low maintenance: Baffle filters require less frequent cleaning compared to cassette filters. The accumulated grease can be easily removed by detaching the plates and cleaning them with mild detergent and water.
- Durable: Baffle filters are robust and long-lasting due to their sturdy construction.
Disadvantages of Baffle Filters:
- Reduced airflow: The maze-like structure of the baffle filter can slightly restrict the airflow, potentially affecting the overall suction power of the chimney.
- Relatively more expensive: Baffle filters are often more expensive than cassette filters due to their design and material.
- Filterless Chimney: As the name suggests, filterless chimneys, also known as auto-clean chimneys, eliminate the need for physical filters. Instead, they utilize advanced technology to remove grease and oil particles.
Working of Filterless Chimneys: Filterless chimneys use a combination of a high-powered blower, an oil collector, and an auto-clean function. When the cooking fumes are sucked into the chimney, the blower creates a centrifugal force, causing the oil and grease particles to be forced towards the wall of the chimney. These particles then slide down into the oil collector, which can be easily removed and cleaned.
Advantages of Filterless Chimneys:
- No filter maintenance: Since filterless chimneys don’t have physical filters, there is no need for regular cleaning or replacement.
- Better suction power: Without filters obstructing the airflow, filterless chimneys can maintain better suction power over time.
- Advanced auto-clean technology: The auto-clean function in filterless chimneys simplifies the cleaning process by collecting the grease and oil in a separate container, which can be easily emptied and cleaned.
Disadvantages of Filterless Chimneys:
- Higher initial cost: Filterless chimneys tend to be more expensive upfront due to their advanced technology.
