When the cooking process causes only inconvenience due to unpleasant odors, only a powerful exhaust device will neutralize this problem.
Let's find out all the practical features of their work and look at consumer ratings for some reviews of coal hoods for the kitchen.
Cleaning processes
Coal kitchen hoods got their name due to the presence of carbon filters located inside the structure : if the external filtration system ensures the elimination of fat, then these filters are responsible for the comprehensive purification of polluted air.
Experts say that hoods of this type are considered the most effective.
What operating principle is typical for such technology?
The functioning of modern coal hoods for kitchens without exhaust has several features. When turned on, such a hood begins to absorb polluted air, which goes through two stages of processing on external and internal filters . In addition to removing burning, soot and other residues, the air is purified from unpleasant odors, which is considered a huge advantage in the kitchen.
External filters are intended for reusable use, so if they become dirty, just wash them using household chemicals. Carbon filters (fine filters) cannot be cleaned: they must be changed periodically .
If you cook frequently and the cooking processes are based on frying, the filters should be changed at least every 3 months. Healthy food lovers will face the need to change filters much less often.
Tip: in order to remember to change filters and maintain high efficiency of the hood, purchase a model with a built-in sensor that will notify you about the condition of the carbon filters and the need to replace them.
You can replace filters without professional help , since the designs of modern hoods have a fairly simple shape. Even children can cope with this task, and the whole process will take no more than 10 minutes.
Pros and cons of hoods with carbon filters
You have already noted one of the advantages of charcoal hoods for the kitchen: polluted air is not removed from the room, but is cleaned , so this equipment can guarantee you greater safety compared to other models.
To dispel all the myths about the quality of work of carbon filter systems, we invite you to familiarize yourself with other advantages of this technology:
- One of the main features is compactness and ease of installation due to the small dimensions of coal hoods. Such equipment will not only become an assistant in everyday life, but will also help emphasize the harmony of the interior and the exquisite taste of the hostess. You no longer have to look for ways to disguise air ducts or plan the placement of furniture with maximum convenience for installing exhaust devices.
- Since this type of hood does not block the ventilation duct, the room will maintain natural circulation of clean air : this is especially important if you are used to gathering in the kitchen with the whole family.
- Unlike most hoods, coal models do not require additional air supply for full operation.
- The cost of such equipment, despite the quality and functionality, remains low due to savings on materials. Many people believe that purchasing filters periodically will cost more: even when purchasing a high-power hood, the overall savings will allow you to stock up on filters for 10 years.
- Unlike hoods with an air vent, which must be connected to the ventilation shaft, coal models can be placed absolutely anywhere in the kitchen , providing only access to the electrical network.
- Another significant advantage of installing such equipment is the ability to be built into kitchen furniture . You get not only a stylish, but also an ergonomic design of the work area.
Hoods of this type are universal . This means that you don't have to guess how to match the hood to the style of the kitchen or its colors.
All charcoal hoods have a simple and laconic design , which, by the way, is ideal for even the smallest kitchens.
When searching for a suitable model, you will be able to note the variety of sizes of such equipment.
There is an opinion that the use of carbon hoods is inconvenient due to the need to search for special filters strictly from the manufacturer. In fact, almost any type of carbon filter has analogues, and many of them are characterized by superior quality.
If you doubt the better performance of hoods with a recirculation cleaning mode, then you may also be mistaken, since their effectiveness will depend on power, and not on cleaning features . In addition, the beneficial effect will depend on the frequency of filter changes and on proper care of the equipment.
Tip: to purchase the right model, study the data sheet: it indicates for which rooms the available power is sufficient. You can calculate the required productivity yourself: multiply the room volume by 12 and 1.3.
Of course, even the highest quality hood of this type will not be able to clean the air 100% of unpleasant odors. However, with the operation of a filter cleaning system, it will be easier to achieve maximum comfort . Another bonus is the solution to the problem of all odors reaching the neighbors through the ventilation duct.
The only negative that may affect your final choice is high energy consumption . However, hoods with carbon filters do not affect the temperature of the kitchen during operation, unlike models with open ventilation that allow hot or cold air to enter from the street.
You don't have to turn on the air conditioner or heaters to restore the microclimate in the room - and this is also a significant advantage.
Kronasteel Bella 600 inox
Price from 4,860 to 10,230 (Average price: 5,916 rubles)
Characteristics
Main characteristics
Fireplace wall installation Dimensions (HxWxD) 67x60x45 cm Installation width 60 cm Air duct pipe diameter 120 mm Body color: silver Number of motors 1
Functionality, management
Operating modes: drainage/circulation Maximum capacity 550 cubic meters. m/h Number of speeds 3 Mechanical control, slider Intensive mode no Lighting incandescent lamp, 25 W x 1
Peculiarities
Grease + carbon filter, pollution indicator Maximum noise level 51 dB
Reviews
pros
good price for a quality device
Minuses
I don't think so
A comment
We are satisfied not only with the quality of work, but also with the appearance of the hood. The model looks very neat and small. Everything was done as it should be. I would give it 5 for quality. The traction is amazing. There is a backlight and three operating speeds. Everyone is happy!
pros
design, reliable operation
Minuses
To connect the hood without outlet to the ventilation, I had to buy additional carbon filters
A comment
I chose a hood without any bells and whistles and a simple design. After a long search I purchased this model. Simple, with the most necessary functionality. All declared functions work properly. I also chose this model because even the controls are hidden at the bottom, which does not spoil the appearance of the hood. Since it was not possible to bring the pipe into the shaft, we had to buy carbon filters separately; it turns out that they are included with this type of hood; filters are not included additionally. At the same time, even with a carbon filter, the hood has decent draft.
pros
price, quality, ease of management
Minuses
did not notice
A comment
When buying a hood for my parents, I looked at the Krona models, since I myself use an inclined model from this company and am very pleased. I settled on the bella model because of its price-quality ratio. In my opinion, the best option for an inexpensive kitchen. The model has simple controls, the first time I explained to my friends what and how. Mom says that she copes well with odors and the lighting is pleasant.
pros
performs the hood function 100%.
Minuses
A comment
Very pleased with our choice.
Powerful hood and nice design compared to other models seen in stores. There is no strong noise, the buttons are convenient for changing speeds, and there is a pleasant backlight. Everything looks reliable and of high quality. 2nd place
How to replace the filter
During the purchasing process, many people forget to ask about the practical features of using such hoods, and then, without understanding the instructions, they turn to specialists for help. In fact, these processes are quite simple, so don't rush to conclusions. Although you cannot clean carbon filters at home, even children can replace them: the process is quick and safe.
Important! Before changing the filter, take care of fire safety and turn off the hood from the power supply.
The first step is to carefully remove the external grease filters. As a rule, they are held on with latches or can be removed with a light touch of the hand. When cleaning such filters, it is not recommended to use soda or abrasive cleaners: they will ruin the appearance of the surface. Once these filters have dried, you can begin cleaning the next ones.
Carbon filters are located in a special cassette inside the hood body. Remove the cassette and replace it with a new one with a built-in filter. When installed correctly, you will hear a characteristic click.
Next, put the grease-absorbing filters in place and connect the hood to check that it is working properly. The absence of loud sounds that are not typical for the operation of the hood you have chosen will indicate the successful installation of new filters.
Tip: to make the hood last longer, do not turn off the device for 2-3 minutes after cooking: this time will be enough to get rid of excess moisture, which can affect the quality of the coal in the internal filter.
Popular models
To choose a suitable coal hood model, you need to take into account not only its power and size. Design remains important, as well as the presence of additional features : touch or remote control, backlight, voice sensors, several operating modes.
Let's figure out how significant the impact of quality and brand will be on the cost of exhaust devices.
Inexpensive but high-quality hoods are produced by the manufacturer Korting : a flat built-in hood with a carbon filter with a capacity of 275 m3 per hour will cost about 5 thousand rubles.
Among the popular models, pay attention to the more stylish hood with an outlet from Krona with elements made of steel and glass, 5 operating modes and electronic control: this option will cost you approximately 11 thousand.
More familiar brands produce expensive models of coal-type hoods. One example of a combination of style and functionality is the Hotpoint-Ariston suspended hood with air exhaust and recirculation mode, equipped with a carbon filter. At a cost of 18.5 thousand, such an exhaust hood provides air purification at a capacity of more than 760 m3 per hour. For comparison: you can buy a Gorenje hood with a capacity of 630 cubic meters for 27 thousand.
Other models and brands are no less in demand in the consumer market. Hoods from Bosch, Hansa, Siemens and many others are popular. Read about the features of their work in reviews of coal hoods.
Maintenance of the hood in recirculation mode
The filters themselves can be purchased without problems in retail and online stores. Their price is in the range of 200-1000 rubles. They need to be changed every 4-6 months depending on the model and manufacturer. And, of course, on the frequency of use: it is important what and how many times a day is prepared in the kitchen.
If you neglect to replace and clean the filters, the quality of the outlet air deteriorates significantly and foreign odors remain in the kitchen.
The advantage of a hood with an outlet is considered to be savings on carbon filters. This is fair, but it also needs to clean the air at the inlet, otherwise fat will settle inside on the ventilation boxes and the engine. So, you will probably have to regularly spend money on disposable grease filters - this way the hood will last longer.
A hood in recirculation mode without exhaust in combination with carbon filters (example in the photo) is a reliable assistant that requires minimal additional maintenance 2-3 times a year.
